Iron Test: Mizuno JPX919 Hot Metal Pro v Hot Metal

Iron Test: Mizuno JPX919 Hot Metal Pro v Hot Metal - Joel Tadman tests the new Mizuno JPX919 Pro iron against the original JPX919 Hot Metal iron

Iron Test: Mizuno JPX919 Hot Metal Pro v Hot Metal

The latest addition to the JPX919 family is the Hot Metal Pro, a slimmed down version of the Hot Metal, which is the longest most forgiving of the three original models in the range.

We’re seeing a trend towards distance irons getting smaller and more aspirational for the low-to-mid handicapper and the Hot Metal Pro is a classic example of this.

It shares the same technology as the original, like the open heel section that spreads perimeter weighting to the rest of the clubhead for added stability, and the stronger Chromoly 4140M material that allows the face to be made thinner and therefore faster.

The Hot Metal Pro also comes in the same spec, that’s 30° of loft in the 7-iron, so the real differences come down to size.

The offset has been reduced by 10 per cent and the overall profile is smaller. That said, we were expecting the differences between the two to be greater. Upon first inspection, it was quite difficult to tell which iron was which.

Once you know, you do notice a slightly thinner, more rounded top edge although the blade length from heel to toe is the same.

Performance wise, the Hot Metal Pro was very similar to the original Hot Metal, which is no bad thing. It was just as fast off the face and maintained the high flight and spin that aids stopping power into greens.

Both irons carried a similar distance on average. Despite its smaller size, we didn’t notice a drop off in forgiveness. It felt just as stable off the face and carry distances were equally as consistent.

When deciding between the two models, it purely comes down to visual preference. If you want the extra confidence a larger profile provides, then stick with the Hot Metal. But if you prefer a slimmer look but without giving up the impressive distance and feel, the Hot Metal Pro could be the ideal club for your bag in 2019.