Compare Titleist 716 AP1 and AP2 irons

We compare Titleist 716 AP1 and AP2 irons to see where the similarities and differences lie to help you pick the right model for your game

These are two very impressive iron launches from Titleist but how do you know which model is going to suit your game the best? Thankfully, we had a whole afternoon on the range at Burhill Golf Club testing them both to compare Titleist 716 AP1 and AP2 irons and determine where the similarities and differences lie.

The first points to make are the differences between the two without hitting a shot. The AP1 has a larger overall size, longer blade length, thicker top line and more offset compared to the AP2. The AP1 has a higher MOI and is on average 3° stronger through the set but both have the same stock shaft length.

Titleist 716 AP1 irons review

The AP1 3-7 irons have 42g of tungsten on average, 50% more than 714 while the AP2 3-7 irons have 56g of tungsten on average, 25% more than 714.

In terms of feel, the 716 AP2 irons feel a little softer than AP1 down to the co-forging process but also because AP1 is geared more towards distance and has a feel to match that.

Titleist 716 AP2 irons review

Where both irons excel is the distance control on offer. Both AP1 and AP2 offer very tight levels of distance consistency from front-to-back on both well-struck shots and slight mishits while maintaining a high level of accuracy. Shots that you would expect to miss the green may now find the putting surface.

The AP1 will generate more distance, that’s a fact. In our testing, this equated to around 6-7 yards in the 7-iron and this increase was pretty consistent through the set. There’s also no doubt the AP1 is more confidence inspiring behind the ball and is generally easier to hit.

If you want more of a traditional looking iron and are more worried about feel and distance control, the AP2 should be your choice. But if you want as much help as you can get to achieve out-and-out distance and aren’t too fussed about looks, the AP1 could well be your perfect match.