Tested By You: Cleveland Launcher CBX Irons

Expert fitting technician Martin Conner fits 18-handicap reader Ian Trevers into the new Cleveland Launcher CBX irons with impressive results

Tested By You: Cleveland Launcher CBX Irons

Launcher was a popular franchise for Cleveland Golf for many years, and with the brand’s return to the woods and irons market this year, it’s no surprise the company should have turned once more to this particular sub-brand.

Among the new Launcher range are two very different-looking irons – the CBX and HB models – targeting golfers looking for varying levels of assistance in different areas.

The CBX set boasts a forgiving cavity back with larger, easier-to-hit long irons and a V-shaped sole for improved turf interaction; HB features a hollow design that promotes easy launch, combining hybrid-style long irons with short irons that retain a more classic look at address.

We asked Cleveland Golf Europe’s UK fitting technician, Martin Conner, to help 18-handicap reader Ian Trevers find the right Launcher iron model and specification for his game in an in-depth custom fitting at West Hill Golf Club in Surrey...

Name: Ian Trevers Handicap: 18 Club: West Hill GC Fitted for: Cleveland Launcher CBX

Fitter Martin Conner's analysis Ian struggles for consistency with his current S300 shafts, with 6-iron spin too low at 5,300rpm.

An R300 shaft in our CBX iron didn’t help much, but the Miyazaki C Kua graphite shaft in stiff not only got spin rates up to 5,700rpm, but also reduced sidespin, improved dispersion and increased ball speed from 110mph to 120mph, meaning 14 yards more carry.

Switching to the Launcher HB model in the 4-iron helped him launch it better. We went 2˚ upright and 1/4in longer to iron out Ian’s toe strikes.

Ian Trever’s feedback and custom-fitting evaluation "I learned a lot from my first custom-fitting. I’ve always thought I’m a fairly regular build, so standard clubs would be fine, but it seems my irons don’t fit me very well – I had no idea I was consistently striking the ball from the toe.

I was hoping for improved accuracy, but 14 yards more 6-iron carry was a surprising bonus. I’ve generally struggled with longer irons, but the HB 4-iron was great.

My home course is quite tight, so I need a reliable longer iron to just get it in play sometimes. I’m really looking forward to trying my new irons."

Ian’s Stats 6-iron ball speed - Before: 110mph, After: 120mph - up 10mph 6-iron carry - Before: 154 yards; After: 170 yards - up 16 yards