The best bladed iron for me will be the one that looks prettiest in my bag, as I won't be able to hit any of them worth a doodle they might as well look good in the bag :)
I’m about the same handicap and have the t100s as well. Love them and I don’t hit them any worse then any game improvement iron Ive had in the past. I hit them better actually.
I’m a 19 handicap. I play often, I’m getting better, I practice a lot, I even got fitted for Irons (that I returned). I now game Srixon ZX5 irons, and I love them. I know my irons don’t match my handicap, but they match my enjoyment.
A good fitter will tell you that your swing will dictate what irons will suit you best and not your handicap. Had a fitting myself last week and ended up with a set of callaway rouge st pro's. Irons i never even considered looking at, but i hit them so friggin good it was disturbing! Should be built and ready next week. Cant wait.
Just moved from Titleist AP2 Irons to JPX921 Forged irons. I love the feel of forged irons and my handicap is 6. I just wanted a slightly larger footprint with minimum off offset and stronger loft. I was generating a lot of spin with AP2’s so some shots would balloon on me especially in wind. The JPX921’s just cut through the wind better for my swing before rising to its peak. Also I’m a little straighter with them on off centre hits. Another great thing was there was no up charge when customising the Mizuno irons. Have now ordered their wedges as well as I was so impressed with the feel. Never thought I would move from Vokey wedges but the Mizuno wedges are forged and are so soft and grippy off the face … Great Video and I agree with you on the Callaway Apex irons as they nearly went into my bag.
Love the looks of the JPX 921 forged, last year in May I was custom fit for 2019 Titleist T-200’s w graphite shafts. Love the feel on center hits, they’re soft with their forged faces BUT On off center hits especially high in the face they make a loud clunky noise/feel. I was told by a Golf Tec rep They are missing epoxy or sound deadening material since they are a hollow head. They’re very forgiving so I’m keeping them for now but maybe later this year I’ll compare them to the 921 Forged. My USGA handicap now is 6.2, was 2.4 early last year. These players distance irons are the correct category for me
I was fitted last fall for new irons and I was intending to go with Mizuno or Titleist and I tested two Mizuno and two Titleist also Ping. He handed me the Apex and I thought “I don’t want Callaway”. Well I liked the short blade length and they felt good and I couldn’t deny the performance was the best for me. I was surprised and ordered a set with the MMT graphite shafts good weight shafts similar to light weight steel very stable with a smooth feel. I intend to have these for years.
Great review and info Mark. I went with a direct to consumer brand and after a fitting now play PXG 6-GW. I removed the 4i & 5i and replaced them with Cobra King Speedzone 3 & 4 hybrids.
I recently got a set of the budget PXG irons (0211 DC) and can't believe how easy they are yo hit. Went from the Callaway Rogue which I also liked. The pxg are less chunky and straighter fir me. Been a great summer so far on the course.
I was in the mix between Srixon ZX5 and Taylormade Stealth irons, then seen the internet and reviews talking about Wilson D9 set. Was able to try that and was really impressed, I ended up choosing the D9 set over the ZX5 because of the huge cost difference. I really wanted the ZX5 solely based on look and brand but you cannot beat the price of the D9 set. They are the real deal for me and many others (I'm a 9.2 handicap). The numbers for me were close when I dialed in the shaft. The lower loft makes you carry further so I got the kbs stiff ultra lite shafts (I think they are 80g) to help get descent and launch angle in the right area.
Same here. I’m a 9 handicap as well. I’d been playing players CB irons but wanted to try something a little easier to hit for awhile and I wanted the g425. Tried all the Gi irons and the D9 for me was by far the best. It wasn’t even that close. The feel was the best. Consistency was the best. And they are like 40% cheaper 🤯 I ended up with the dg x100 shafts. They’re on order as we speak. I’m in that dreaded wait for them to be made and shipped. Another week or two to go 👎
I went from the Ping G410s to the Ping i525s. Mainly for a heavier shaft weight, but they are just as forgiving and have a better sound and feel. Many people have complimented them for their looks in the bag too.
Playing p770’s at the moment which I like & they gap fantastically in to my vokey’s which I have from 46 degree upwards. Irons are what I find most challenging to play so G425 or Apex are appealing but gapping in to wedges feels like it would be an issue. Currently I’ve got a 20 yard gap from 5 iron to 4 hybrid (g425) & I’d rather have that than the same between my 46 & the next club. Excellent video Mark, great food for thought & having something easier to hit has to be something more people should go for.
Game the Ping i59 and I find them very consistent , not the longest , but very true. Took a few shafts to get the feel desired , but the 6.5 LZ livened the head up for me over the LS 6.5.
First ever custom fitting for a new golfer (less than a year)… Mizuno JPX 921 hot metal in a true temper dynamic gold X100, tried others but this combination was in a different division and league. Looks, feel and for an improvement iron the performance is unbelievable. Better feel and less “clicky” sound than ping I found. Great review as always
I love the fact you try a lot of different brands . Many of the "pro" golfers on UA-cam act as if it's not titleist, Taylor made, Ping, or Callaway they don't exist. My favorite ever is my Cleveland irons.
I'd argue that the Mizzy Hot Metal Pros deserves a place in the list. Thinner top line, less offset and a smaller head. Still easy to hit and feels great.
Good review. You have covered the whole range but clearly defined the categories. I play the G425 and appreciate their forgiveness and consistency. Don’t experience the hot shots I had with my previous clubs. Thanks for your reliable evaluations.
Have the Wilson D9"s and really like them. I'm 75 and I have dropped two clubs and get the same distance and with the high launch they stop on the green very well.
Mizuno JPX hot metals look like a players Iron but with the help of a game improvement . V similar to the forged you mentioned but with lots of help . Works for me as a 18 handicapper, and does have that buttery smooth feel of the Mizuno players clubs . And they say nothing feels like a Mizuno .
I play the tour, forged and hot metal in a blended set. When you middle the tour it’s almost sexual how good it actually feels. I know that’s weird but that’s the best way I can describe it. 😂
Feel is so personal. I play i210s but I also tested the P7MC when I was looking to buy, for me the i210s had by far the better feel and the P7MC felt hard and harsh. If I was looking to change my i210s I would obviously look at the i59 but also the P770, Mizuno 223 and T100 (or more probably the T100S). As for the blades - no mention of Wilson or indeed Coach Lockey's Callaways (which he is giving away). Love the choice of Cleveland Launcher XL for SGI Irons - for some reason I really like it
I’ve had all the irons you mentioned and I mean all of them in my quest to find an iron that would play better than the i210. I’m now back with the Ping as none of them do, funny ole game isn’t it.
I find it astounding that regardless of the category of club, each brand felt so different during my recent fitting. Irons I thought would be my ideal based on specs and reviews felt like logs and the couple I narrowed down to just felt like they were custom made just for my type of swing. PS I dig the fact that you are such a great player yet you hit those 4’s! No ego there!!!
LOVING my TaylorMade SIM2 MAX OS set I was fitted for August 2021. Traded in 2008 Tour Burners I bought used. Went from a 16 HCP to a 10 from the Whites. At age 59, I shot an incredible 76 from the YELLOW tees just 4 days ago. The 3rd time Ive broke into the 70's, and all 3 times with these clubs. LOVE THEM!!
I’m 65 old Ballplayer and Game Mizuno JPX 921 Hot Metal with 95 Gram recoil Graphite Shafts and Shot an 75 this Week from the White tees , Played Blue tees up to this year , Consistent Great Feeling Clubs!
I’m 65 old Ballplayer and Game Mizuno JPX 921 Hot Metal with 95 Gram recoil Graphite Shafts and Shot an 75 this Week from the White tees , Played Blue tees up to this year , Consistent Great Feeling Clubs!
Great video Mark. I went for a fitting at a major UK retailer who simply wanted me to buy the clubs which probably pay the most commission. They would not have been the right clubs for me and buyers remorse would have shortly followed! After a more thorough fitting at a local golf club, I ended up with the 921 forged. And absolutely love them. You can't put a price on using the right kit for you - a blade or a full GI is ok just as long it is right for the player...
I’m loving my Cleveland Launcher XL Halos with my Launcher XL driver, Launcher XL HyWood and CBX2 54 deg wedge. How much more tech does a golfer need than what these clubs provide? And the price point is wonderful. Just perfect for my 85mph driver swing speed. Thanks for choosing theses and I’d love to see you play yours a lot this year!
I liked a lot of your picks. But for looks, forgiveness, for game improvement, I would have to add Cleveland Launcher XL to your picks. I demoed these, I liked them so well that i bought them. Not a crazy chunky looking top or that loud clunk. Personally I’m a 12hdc and found these very appealing
Playing the Apex 19s at the moment and do love them. They were an ebay purchase and slightly too long. I went and got fitted and they fitted me into the Apex 21s with a slightly heavier standard length shaft 😂
For the first time ever I now have a blended set. JPX Forged at the bottom of the bag, Hot Metal in 6 and 5 irons. The broadening of categories that Mark demonstrates here means that most if not all manufacturers can provide this option in the model(s) you like. I'm late to the blending idea but I'm sold on it now.
I still play the MP-4s, but the PXG Gen 4’s are some of the best feeling/sounding irons I’ve ever hit. Can’t recall which one in the lineup it was, but yeah, wow
Great report Mark. Mine Wilson Staff Tour Blades 3 to SI. Ping Zing Two's 1 and 2. M1 and Steelhead Strong 3, when needed Cleveland 586 wedges and Ping Anser Bronze or oddessy 2 ball blade. It's a Pro set with 1 degree high lofts.
I have a blended set of all Mizuno jpx921. Pw-8 in the tour, 7-5 in the forged and a 5 iron delofted a degree in the Hot metal. I play off 4 and can’t do justice to how good they have been for me. The looks, buttery soft feel and consistency of the tour added to the help and feel of the forged, and the ultimate forgiveness and power of the hot metal blend unbelievably well! Mizuno all the way for me. Cant recommend them enough to try. 11/10
I have the Taylor Made P790 as I liked the forgiveness they gave but had a nice look down at the ball with not too much offset. I use them in 4-PW with DG 105 Stiff shafts. Another good and useful video 👍⛳️🏌🏼♂️
I’m sure it won’t surprise you when I say Ping G400’s are in my bag. My first set of fitted irons were G2’s and I have stuck with them ever since. The G400’s were the first of them to be a pearlescent finish which I like, I don’t think there’s a lot of difference between the G400, G410 and G425 series. May look to change to the next ones that Ping come out with.
I swear when it comes the voice in my head it may as well be Mark. If i were to explain the differences in clubs and what i prefer it would be exactly what Mark just said. I switched to the Zx4 at the holidays and shortly after Mark does a review and now games them. I also already had the Cleveland chipper Mark put in his bag.
Just bought the Wilson Staff D9 Forged irons, really looking forward to using them. They seem to fit in the middle of players irons and game improvement, the price was very reasonable as well :) underrated brand these days imo
Going to book in shortly to try the Wilson d9 forged love the look of them so hopefully I like them on the day. Am also trying the TM stealth while am there. When you went to get fitted for the Wilson what would you say the forgiveness was out of 10 if you don’t mind me asking? Thanks
@@mugz_1437 I actually didn't get fitted for the D9s since I know my specs and I'm currently using the Wilson Model Blades and figured it's going to be a pretty painless transition to something a bit more forgiving with the same brand. I've been hearing great things about the Stealth irons as well!!! They seem to be pretty popular right now. Hope you have a great fitting!!!
Went from Mizuno 921 Forged (which are great) to MP-20s… absolutely love them! I think the difficulty associated to hitting blades is way over stated. While I have had to adjust my distances, I actually find the dispersion with the MP-20s to be noticeably better at the range… giving me more confidence on the course.
In my opinion the Wilson staff model blades are the best looking and feeling irons .. yes sometimes they harder to hit but when you catch one nicely there’s no better reward .. the weight and looks are second to none .. I treated myself them for my 50th bday and my handicap has actually dropped down by 3 shots while using them
I have just put a set of Cobra T-rail "hyrons" in my bag .I also switched from steel to graphite shafts. 2 bouts at the range and 18 holes played have made it clear that I can hit great shots even with a bad back and knees.
Titleist 718 T-MB irons are performing just as good as the new T100. In my opinion the looks are even better, since T100 has a bit of a plastic touch on the back. Tungsten weight helps the ball to pop up in the air more than Titleist's 620 MB. I think Titleist were really on to something with the T-MBs. Classic lofts and they go really nice up to 3-iron, which also feels as good as U-505, T-200 or the older U500 and U510. If you can get your hands on them - try them and you will buy them!
Been playing the Cobra Forged Tech One Length irons for 2 years now (since 2020) I’m a 18 handicap and they work perfectly! I work in a proshop and have tried the Taylor Made stealth irons and they are pretty good also!
Great list, Mark! I’ve had my Ping i25 for years and can’t seem to get rid of it! Its a perfect balance of looks and performance. So easy to shape shots and so forgiving on non centre strikes.
I have an old set of Mizuno MP-52s. About 15 years old. They called them Dual Muscle. Sort of blade looking and a small undercut double cavity in the lower number clubs. Probably in the second category? I’m not sure what they’re classed as. I like them. Can’t stand the look of bigger, thicker, chunkier heads. They’re not all that forgiving but it breeds concentration.
Love the looks of the JPX 921 forged, last year in May I was custom fit for 2019 Titleist T-200’s w Mitsubishi AMT red graphite shafts. Love the feel on center hits, they’re soft with their forged faces BUT On off center hits especially high in the face they make a loud clunky noise/feel. I was told by a Golf Tec rep They are missing epoxy or sound deadening material since they are a hollow head. They’re very forgiving so I’m keeping them for now but maybe later this year I’ll compare them to the 921 Forged. My USGA handicap now is 6.2, was 2.4 early last year. These players distance irons are the correct category for me
I am still rocking the Taylormade Burner Irons 4-AW. Sometimes they are a little hot off the face and I fly over greens. I am thinking about moving to something like the Titleist 718 AP2's if I can find a good used set so I can get a bit more feel/workability and reduce the hot face issue. Thanks for your reviews as always, cheers!
Ive moved to Pxg gen 3 P irons. I play off 4 and I love them. I think it's time to start mentioning pxg as they are more in the price range if not cheaper than a lot of other companies.
I have gone almost a full bag of mizunos and cannot recommend them enough the st-z is a monster sounds and feels awesome the fly hi is the easiest thing to hit 221s are almost beyond comparison and t22s are gorgeous
Got P790 new old stock off the shelf cos they were Cheap and I won some vouchers. Got down to 9 now I understand more path, face to path & wrist angles from watching your channel and a few lessons. I fancy a change to Cobra Forged Tec.
As a higher handicapper, I play the Cobra Rad Speeds. I have the 3 & 5 wood, 4 & 5 hybrids, and 6 - G Irons. I have a somewhat slower swing speed so the stronger lofts help out a bit.
Have the Mizuno JPX921 Hot Metal irons. Thought I would go with Callaway or Ping but these irons look and feel great but have that game improvement feel. Also thought I’d stop at 6 iron but hit the 5 iron pretty well and it’s in the bag. Then have a Ping 425 hybrid 3, and a Titleist TSi3 3 wood, and Ping G425 driver. The driver has a ping sound which I don’t really like, but very forgiving and goes far. Was a close second with the Titleist TSi3 driver.
I’ve been playing the 2021 t200s since they came out but I currently just got fitted for the i525s. No left misses with those clubs and they feel more workable without losing distance.
Got the Mizuno HMBs at the moment, and they really perform brilliantly, as well as look soooo gorgeous. They look like the classic blades in the bag, The only thing, and this is getting really picky, is that the top line could be a bit thinner for my eye. If I was to replace them now, I would be testing the new Mizuno Pro 225(? I think) v the Ping i525. I wanted the i59 but think the i525 would help my game better.
I was adamant I wasn't going to ever change my AP2 718 until the grooves vanished! ...I gave in to the T100s... expected to arrive early July 🤞 just beautiful.
Currently have Mizuno Mp-68 3-pw. Got them 15 years ago and didn’t play the game for 10 years. Just come back and still love them. 3 irons like a butter knife but makes me feel like I must be a good striker using that 😂
I think the Mizuno Pro 225 is the best one in that hollow bodied category for me. I tried the ZX4, p790, i525 and the Mizunos were for me, the best look, feel and performance. I like a slimmer iron to get through the turf I play, some of those chunky monsters seem to catch for me.
Still rockin the MP-18's, but TM wedges. All of these look great tbh, don't think you could go wrong with any of them. Honestly though, for me, I really struggle with thick toplines. I don't know what it is, I don't hate the look of them, but I just cannot hit them consistently for the life of me. I really like low profile anything, probably why I feel most comfortable in a blade. Oh, and a buddy of mine has those Ping 525s and let me hit his 9 iron at the range. What an awesome feel that thing has, I was tempted to trade into those right there lol.
Not sure where you would categorize Mizuno 225s, but I really enjoy the look, feel, and forgiveness of them. But like you said Mark, there are a plethora of good clubs out there. I do wish I tried the Srixon zx4 irons. If I could put my ego aside, I think the Cleveland launchers would be a blast to play with.
Do you ever test EPON irons? I have gamed most all irons and have landed on the EPON AF 306. Forged by ENDO. Hard to pass on such a top end brand. Thanks
I’ve decided to go a bit extreme this year: 9* SIM2 Max D, 16.5* SIM2 Max 3w 1.5“ shorter than normal, 21* SIM2 Max, 24* G425 9w, G425 5H/6H/7H, Miura CB801 8i, Miura TB901 9i/PW, Miura LH Wedge series 52/56/60. I wanted to make everything as easy as possible from 145 and out which is why I went woods and hybrids. I wanted a touch of help with the 8i, it’s at 40* to help the gapping from the hybrids also to be able to get the 9i and PW to 44/48 to blend into the wedges. I want to really dial in everything from 130 and in which is why I went with blades.
The best bladed iron for me will be the one that looks prettiest in my bag, as I won't be able to hit any of them worth a doodle they might as well look good in the bag :)
Wise words. 💪🏻
I think it would go off opinion on that for me it would prob be a Mizuno
Playing t100s as a 15 Hcap. Many said don’t because more help from other irons, but I just love the feel and looks, my hobby my irons, they’re great
I'm a 15 on a good day and I play Mizuno 221s. Not because they make me better, but because they make me happy.
I’m about the same handicap and have the t100s as well. Love them and I don’t hit them any worse then any game improvement iron Ive had in the past. I hit them better actually.
I’m a 19 handicap. I play often, I’m getting better, I practice a lot, I even got fitted for Irons (that I returned). I now game Srixon ZX5 irons, and I love them. I know my irons don’t match my handicap, but they match my enjoyment.
A good fitter will tell you that your swing will dictate what irons will suit you best and not your handicap. Had a fitting myself last week and ended up with a set of callaway rouge st pro's. Irons i never even considered looking at, but i hit them so friggin good it was disturbing! Should be built and ready next week. Cant wait.
@@allanthomson8969 after about 4 rounds I shot my best every score +11, so all about strike and feel not handicap I agree
Of all people you are the one person I would love to see review the Ben Hogan ICON and PTX Pro irons.
Just moved from Titleist AP2 Irons to JPX921 Forged irons. I love the feel of forged irons and my handicap is 6. I just wanted a slightly larger footprint with minimum off offset and stronger loft. I was generating a lot of spin with AP2’s so some shots would balloon on me especially in wind. The JPX921’s just cut through the wind better for my swing before rising to its peak. Also I’m a little straighter with them on off centre hits. Another great thing was there was no up charge when customising the Mizuno irons. Have now ordered their wedges as well as I was so impressed with the feel. Never thought I would move from Vokey wedges but the Mizuno wedges are forged and are so soft and grippy off the face … Great Video and I agree with you on the Callaway Apex irons as they nearly went into my bag.
Love the looks of the JPX 921 forged, last year in May I was custom fit for 2019 Titleist T-200’s w graphite shafts. Love the feel on center hits, they’re soft with their forged faces BUT On off center hits especially high in the face they make a loud clunky noise/feel. I was told by a Golf Tec rep They are missing epoxy or sound deadening material since they are a hollow head.
They’re very forgiving so I’m keeping them for now but maybe later this year I’ll compare them to the 921 Forged. My USGA handicap now is 6.2, was 2.4 early last year. These players distance irons are the correct category for me
I was fitted last fall for new irons and I was intending to go with Mizuno or Titleist and I tested two Mizuno and two Titleist also Ping. He handed me the Apex and I thought “I don’t want Callaway”. Well I liked the short blade length and they felt good and I couldn’t deny the performance was the best for me. I was surprised and ordered a set with the MMT graphite shafts good weight shafts similar to light weight steel very stable with a smooth feel. I intend to have these for years.
Mark, could you compare them when hitting everything off the toe? I think this would give me a better idea of which suits my game more.
😂
Great review and info Mark. I went with a direct to consumer brand and after a fitting now play PXG 6-GW. I removed the 4i & 5i and replaced them with Cobra King Speedzone 3 & 4 hybrids.
Love my Mizuno JPX HM Pro”s, great feel and consistency 👍
Mark's videos are so much better than RS. I'm tired of the click bait titles. Thank you Mark for keeping it honest and entertaining.
I recently got a set of the budget PXG irons (0211 DC) and can't believe how easy they are yo hit. Went from the Callaway Rogue which I also liked. The pxg are less chunky and straighter fir me. Been a great summer so far on the course.
Love this type of broad but also in depth look at all categories. I'd like to see more of these videos through all clubs
I got fitted for the Srixon ZX7 irons but tried the ZX5's and loved them even more so went with them. Srixon does make quality clubs
I got a combo of both 7-pw is zx7 and 5-6 is zx5
I was in the mix between Srixon ZX5 and Taylormade Stealth irons, then seen the internet and reviews talking about Wilson D9 set. Was able to try that and was really impressed, I ended up choosing the D9 set over the ZX5 because of the huge cost difference. I really wanted the ZX5 solely based on look and brand but you cannot beat the price of the D9 set. They are the real deal for me and many others (I'm a 9.2 handicap). The numbers for me were close when I dialed in the shaft. The lower loft makes you carry further so I got the kbs stiff ultra lite shafts (I think they are 80g) to help get descent and launch angle in the right area.
Same here. I’m a 9 handicap as well. I’d been playing players CB irons but wanted to try something a little easier to hit for awhile and I wanted the g425. Tried all the Gi irons and the D9 for me was by far the best. It wasn’t even that close. The feel was the best. Consistency was the best. And they are like 40% cheaper 🤯 I ended up with the dg x100 shafts. They’re on order as we speak. I’m in that dreaded wait for them to be made and shipped. Another week or two to go 👎
I went from the Ping G410s to the Ping i525s. Mainly for a heavier shaft weight, but they are just as forgiving and have a better sound and feel. Many people have complimented them for their looks in the bag too.
I went from Ping i20s to the i525. A little bit ‘clickier’, but nice distances when I hit them well
I'm with you, Mark. I play the Srixon Zx4 and love the feel and sound when you hit it spot-on. That added distance is a nice feature.
Playing p770’s at the moment which I like & they gap fantastically in to my vokey’s which I have from 46 degree upwards. Irons are what I find most challenging to play so G425 or Apex are appealing but gapping in to wedges feels like it would be an issue. Currently I’ve got a 20 yard gap from 5 iron to 4 hybrid (g425) & I’d rather have that than the same between my 46 & the next club. Excellent video Mark, great food for thought & having something easier to hit has to be something more people should go for.
Always full of useful knowledge that is shared for our benefit!
I've played mid tier irons for all my life, but I tried the Mizuno game improvement irons and I fell in love with them immediately.
Game the Ping i59 and I find them very consistent , not the longest , but very true. Took a few shafts to get the feel desired , but the 6.5 LZ livened the head up for me over the LS 6.5.
First ever custom fitting for a new golfer (less than a year)… Mizuno JPX 921 hot metal in a true temper dynamic gold X100, tried others but this combination was in a different division and league. Looks, feel and for an improvement iron the performance is unbelievable. Better feel and less “clicky” sound than ping I found. Great review as always
Have Same Irons but with 95 gram Recoil Graphite Shafts , Love them !
Got a set of JPX 923 hot metal pros with the true temper project X IO shaft.
Love my ZX7's - contemplating putting iron headcovers on them there that nice to play and look at :)
You made good choices throughout.
I love the fact you try a lot of different brands . Many of the "pro" golfers on UA-cam act as if it's not titleist, Taylor made, Ping, or Callaway they don't exist. My favorite ever is my Cleveland irons.
Good timing! Was thinking of updating my irons (callaway x20 from 2009 or so)
I play Ben Hogan PTX pro irons. Hollow body for the 7 iron and up, titanium slug in the center for 8 iron and down. They look great to my eye and were
I'd argue that the Mizzy Hot Metal Pros deserves a place in the list. Thinner top line, less offset and a smaller head. Still easy to hit and feels great.
Agreed
100% agree. I have a set of the 919’s and they are fantastic.
Good review. You have covered the whole range but clearly defined the categories. I play the G425 and appreciate their forgiveness and consistency. Don’t experience the hot shots I had with my previous clubs. Thanks for your reliable evaluations.
Have the Wilson D9"s and really like them. I'm 75 and I have dropped two clubs and get the same distance and with the high launch they stop on the green very well.
Cobra Forged Tec, Wilson D9 & forged worth looking at too for me. ZX4’s look strong contenders. Still I prefer second hand.
Awesome vid really enjoyed your tutorial on each bracket of irons I'm gaming this season with PXG 0211 thanks
Mizuno JPX hot metals look like a players Iron but with the help of a game improvement . V similar to the forged you mentioned but with lots of help . Works for me as a 18 handicapper, and does have that buttery smooth feel of the Mizuno players clubs . And they say nothing feels like a Mizuno .
I am playing the Mizuni JPX hot metals too. Perfect Irons for a mid-handicap golfer.
I play the tour, forged and hot metal in a blended set. When you middle the tour it’s almost sexual how good it actually feels. I know that’s weird but that’s the best way I can describe it. 😂
Have same Irons but with 95 Gram Recoil Graphite Shafts , Love them !
Have same Irons but with 95 Gram Recoil Graphite Shafts , Love them !
I play the forged 921s from wedge to 6 iron, then 5 and 4 in 921 hot metal pro.
Feel is so personal. I play i210s but I also tested the P7MC when I was looking to buy, for me the i210s had by far the better feel and the P7MC felt hard and harsh. If I was looking to change my i210s I would obviously look at the i59 but also the P770, Mizuno 223 and T100 (or more probably the T100S).
As for the blades - no mention of Wilson or indeed Coach Lockey's Callaways (which he is giving away).
Love the choice of Cleveland Launcher XL for SGI Irons - for some reason I really like it
I’ve had all the irons you mentioned and I mean all of them in my quest to find an iron that would play better than the i210. I’m now back with the Ping as none of them do, funny ole game isn’t it.
@@markpenn9355 I have been digging around the internet and there are rumors of an i230 coming out late summer/fall
I find it astounding that regardless of the category of club, each brand felt so different during my recent fitting. Irons I thought would be my ideal based on specs and reviews felt like logs and the couple I narrowed down to just felt like they were custom made just for my type of swing. PS I dig the fact that you are such a great player yet you hit those 4’s! No ego there!!!
LOVING my TaylorMade SIM2 MAX OS set I was fitted for August 2021. Traded in 2008 Tour Burners I bought used. Went from a 16 HCP to a 10 from the Whites. At age 59, I shot an incredible 76 from the YELLOW tees just 4 days ago. The 3rd time Ive broke into the 70's, and all 3 times with these clubs. LOVE THEM!!
I’m 65 old Ballplayer and Game Mizuno JPX 921 Hot Metal with 95 Gram recoil Graphite Shafts and Shot an 75 this Week from the White tees , Played Blue tees up to this year , Consistent Great Feeling Clubs!
I’m 65 old Ballplayer and Game Mizuno JPX 921 Hot Metal with 95 Gram recoil Graphite Shafts and Shot an 75 this Week from the White tees , Played Blue tees up to this year , Consistent Great Feeling Clubs!
Great video Mark. I went for a fitting at a major UK retailer who simply wanted me to buy the clubs which probably pay the most commission. They would not have been the right clubs for me and buyers remorse would have shortly followed! After a more thorough fitting at a local golf club, I ended up with the 921 forged. And absolutely love them. You can't put a price on using the right kit for you - a blade or a full GI is ok just as long it is right for the player...
I’m loving my Cleveland Launcher XL Halos with my Launcher XL driver, Launcher XL HyWood and CBX2 54 deg wedge. How much more tech does a golfer need than what these clubs provide? And the price point is wonderful. Just perfect for my 85mph driver swing speed. Thanks for choosing theses and I’d love to see you play yours a lot this year!
Great vid for comparing whats available.Big thanks for this one Mark.
I liked a lot of your picks. But for looks, forgiveness, for game improvement, I would have to add Cleveland Launcher XL to your picks. I demoed these, I liked them so well that i bought them. Not a crazy chunky looking top or that loud clunk. Personally I’m a 12hdc and found these very appealing
Playing the Apex 19s at the moment and do love them. They were an ebay purchase and slightly too long. I went and got fitted and they fitted me into the Apex 21s with a slightly heavier standard length shaft 😂
For the first time ever I now have a blended set. JPX Forged at the bottom of the bag, Hot Metal in 6 and 5 irons. The broadening of categories that Mark demonstrates here means that most if not all manufacturers can provide this option in the model(s) you like. I'm late to the blending idea but I'm sold on it now.
I still play the MP-4s, but the PXG Gen 4’s are some of the best feeling/sounding irons I’ve ever hit. Can’t recall which one in the lineup it was, but yeah, wow
Great report Mark. Mine Wilson Staff Tour Blades 3 to SI. Ping Zing Two's 1 and 2. M1 and Steelhead Strong 3, when needed Cleveland 586 wedges and Ping Anser Bronze or oddessy 2 ball blade. It's a Pro set with 1 degree high lofts.
I have a blended set of all Mizuno jpx921. Pw-8 in the tour, 7-5 in the forged and a 5 iron delofted a degree in the Hot metal. I play off 4 and can’t do justice to how good they have been for me. The looks, buttery soft feel and consistency of the tour added to the help and feel of the forged, and the ultimate forgiveness and power of the hot metal blend unbelievably well! Mizuno all the way for me. Cant recommend them enough to try. 11/10
I have the Taylor Made P790 as I liked the forgiveness they gave but had a nice look down at the ball with not too much offset. I use them in 4-PW with DG 105 Stiff shafts. Another good and useful video 👍⛳️🏌🏼♂️
Mizuno 923 hot metal pros are the way to go.
I’m sure it won’t surprise you when I say Ping G400’s are in my bag. My first set of fitted irons were G2’s and I have stuck with them ever since. The G400’s were the first of them to be a pearlescent finish which I like, I don’t think there’s a lot of difference between the G400, G410 and G425 series. May look to change to the next ones that Ping come out with.
I'm keen to see a decent Wilson D9 forged iron review. They tick some boxes for me, but Wilson tend to get forgotten about.
D9 awesome forgiving irons.
Ping i500s, love them, very similar to the i525, look traditional but with some help, shame not properly forged…
I swear when it comes the voice in my head it may as well be Mark. If i were to explain the differences in clubs and what i prefer it would be exactly what Mark just said. I switched to the Zx4 at the holidays and shortly after Mark does a review and now games them. I also already had the Cleveland chipper Mark put in his bag.
Just bought the Wilson Staff D9 Forged irons, really looking forward to using them. They seem to fit in the middle of players irons and game improvement, the price was very reasonable as well :) underrated brand these days imo
Going to book in shortly to try the Wilson d9 forged love the look of them so hopefully I like them on the day. Am also trying the TM stealth while am there.
When you went to get fitted for the Wilson what would you say the forgiveness was out of 10 if you don’t mind me asking? Thanks
@@mugz_1437 I actually didn't get fitted for the D9s since I know my specs and I'm currently using the Wilson Model Blades and figured it's going to be a pretty painless transition to something a bit more forgiving with the same brand. I've been hearing great things about the Stealth irons as well!!! They seem to be pretty popular right now. Hope you have a great fitting!!!
@@OvieKovy Thank you mate appreciated. Stay safe
Went from Mizuno 921 Forged (which are great) to MP-20s… absolutely love them! I think the difficulty associated to hitting blades is way over stated. While I have had to adjust my distances, I actually find the dispersion with the MP-20s to be noticeably better at the range… giving me more confidence on the course.
These are probably the best looking iron ever. Soooooo clean
In my opinion the Wilson staff model blades are the best looking and feeling irons .. yes sometimes they harder to hit but when you catch one nicely there’s no better reward .. the weight and looks are second to none .. I treated myself them for my 50th bday and my handicap has actually dropped down by 3 shots while using them
YES!!! Wilson so underrated these days, Model blades are demanding but once you flush them it's just perfect and sensual lol
MP for the win!!! The Mizuno is just so wonderful to look at and hit. Mizuno blades just age well too…
I went for a fitting in a pro shop and walked out with Taylormade Stealth Irons and Woods . A huge step up from my old OS Burners .
I have just put a set of Cobra T-rail "hyrons" in my bag .I also switched from steel to graphite shafts. 2 bouts at the range and 18 holes played have made it clear that I can hit great shots even with a bad back and knees.
Titleist 718 T-MB irons are performing just as good as the new T100. In my opinion the looks are even better, since T100 has a bit of a plastic touch on the back. Tungsten weight helps the ball to pop up in the air more than Titleist's 620 MB. I think Titleist were really on to something with the T-MBs. Classic lofts and they go really nice up to 3-iron, which also feels as good as U-505, T-200 or the older U500 and U510. If you can get your hands on them - try them and you will buy them!
My Halos arrived today and they just look gorgeous!
Switched from Mizuno MX200 to TM P7MC last year. They’re fantastic to hit. Great feel!
Been playing the Cobra Forged Tech One Length irons for 2 years now (since 2020) I’m a 18 handicap and they work perfectly!
I work in a proshop and have tried the Taylor Made stealth irons and they are pretty good also!
Good job Mark.. All those clubs are top of the line..
Long time Mizuno irons owner but have to say that Srixon is making some great forged clubs. Great video!
Great list, Mark! I’ve had my Ping i25 for years and can’t seem to get rid of it! Its a perfect balance of looks and performance. So easy to shape shots and so forgiving on non centre strikes.
I25 just came out last year and you’ve had them for years😂😂
I've always found I liked testing the Cobra Forged Tec Irons. I game PING G410s at the moment.
Playing the Mizuno JPX 921 Forged and love them. But the most beautiful looking irons are the TaylorMade P7MC.
Wilson Staff. Staff Model Blades, CB, D9 Forged, D9. I don’t think anyone makes a better iron line up that almost never gets mentioned.
I have an old set of Mizuno MP-52s. About 15 years old. They called them Dual Muscle. Sort of blade looking and a small undercut double cavity in the lower number clubs. Probably in the second category? I’m not sure what they’re classed as. I like them. Can’t stand the look of bigger, thicker, chunkier heads. They’re not all that forgiving but it breeds concentration.
Considering PXG0211 irons...I play low 20s at the moment. Fitting booked. I have the driver and it works well for me.
Love the looks of the JPX 921 forged, last year in May I was custom fit for 2019 Titleist T-200’s w Mitsubishi AMT red graphite shafts. Love the feel on center hits, they’re soft with their forged faces BUT On off center hits especially high in the face they make a loud clunky noise/feel. I was told by a Golf Tec rep They are missing epoxy or sound deadening material since they are a hollow head.
They’re very forgiving so I’m keeping them for now but maybe later this year I’ll compare them to the 921 Forged. My USGA handicap now is 6.2, was 2.4 early last year. These players distance irons are the correct category for me
I currently have the Taylormade Sim2 Max OS and I’m considering moving over to the Cleveland Halos.
Taylormade P770 and P790 are very solid options that should have been mentioned.
I am still rocking the Taylormade Burner Irons 4-AW. Sometimes they are a little hot off the face and I fly over greens. I am thinking about moving to something like the Titleist 718 AP2's if I can find a good used set so I can get a bit more feel/workability and reduce the hot face issue. Thanks for your reviews as always, cheers!
Good information here Mark. Thank you.
Ive moved to Pxg gen 3 P irons. I play off 4 and I love them. I think it's time to start mentioning pxg as they are more in the price range if not cheaper than a lot of other companies.
I went for a fitting last fall & ended up with the Apex 21's (6i - AW), it was between them, the Cobra Forged-Tec (last seasons model) & the Ping i210
Still loving my Cleveland Launchers Mr Parfield and I am now off 4.2....! cheers
I have gone almost a full bag of mizunos and cannot recommend them enough the st-z is a monster sounds and feels awesome the fly hi is the easiest thing to hit 221s are almost beyond comparison and t22s are gorgeous
Got P790 new old stock off the shelf cos they were Cheap and I won some vouchers. Got down to 9 now I understand more path, face to path & wrist angles from watching your channel and a few lessons. I fancy a change to Cobra Forged Tec.
Best shots you hit on video were with the Callaway Apex
Callaway Apex Pro are great. I love them. Perfect for my game. No issues.
As a higher handicapper, I play the Cobra Rad Speeds. I have the 3 & 5 wood, 4 & 5 hybrids, and 6 - G Irons. I have a somewhat slower swing speed so the stronger lofts help out a bit.
Have the Mizuno JPX921 Hot Metal irons. Thought I would go with Callaway or Ping but these irons look and feel great but have that game improvement feel. Also thought I’d stop at 6 iron but hit the 5 iron pretty well and it’s in the bag. Then have a Ping 425 hybrid 3, and a Titleist TSi3 3 wood, and Ping G425 driver. The driver has a ping sound which I don’t really like, but very forgiving and goes far. Was a close second with the Titleist TSi3 driver.
The Launcher XL reminds of the old Browning 440's. Those were so easy to hit too.
Great video thank you!
I went from Ping to TaylorMade Sims! They are the best!
Just moved from p 7TW to sim 3 max irons… i play HC 2! They are amazing
Mizuno 923 hot metal pro for me. So damn nice and powerful. Absolutely love em. Would highly recommend this set for just about anybody.
I’ve been playing the 2021 t200s since they came out but I currently just got fitted for the i525s. No left misses with those clubs and they feel more workable without losing distance.
I'm still playing a used set of TaylorMade burner 2.0 irons I bought a few months back.
Got the Mizuno HMBs at the moment, and they really perform brilliantly, as well as look soooo gorgeous. They look like the classic blades in the bag, The only thing, and this is getting really picky, is that the top line could be a bit thinner for my eye. If I was to replace them now, I would be testing the new Mizuno Pro 225(? I think) v the Ping i525. I wanted the i59 but think the i525 would help my game better.
Love my T300 good looks, very forgiving and long.
I was adamant I wasn't going to ever change my AP2 718 until the grooves vanished! ...I gave in to the T100s... expected to arrive early July 🤞 just beautiful.
Great video Mark!
Currently have Mizuno Mp-68 3-pw. Got them 15 years ago and didn’t play the game for 10 years. Just come back and still love them. 3 irons like a butter knife but makes me feel like I must be a good striker using that 😂
I think the Mizuno Pro 225 is the best one in that hollow bodied category for me. I tried the ZX4, p790, i525 and the Mizunos were for me, the best look, feel and performance. I like a slimmer iron to get through the turf I play, some of those chunky monsters seem to catch for me.
Cobra forged tec are hollow bodied and great looking and feel excellent.
Thanks Mark. I'm 69 yo and can't swing 10 different clubs when I go for my fitting for a new bag. I have an idea of what to try.
Still rockin the MP-18's, but TM wedges. All of these look great tbh, don't think you could go wrong with any of them. Honestly though, for me, I really struggle with thick toplines. I don't know what it is, I don't hate the look of them, but I just cannot hit them consistently for the life of me. I really like low profile anything, probably why I feel most comfortable in a blade. Oh, and a buddy of mine has those Ping 525s and let me hit his 9 iron at the range. What an awesome feel that thing has, I was tempted to trade into those right there lol.
Would love to see you test some Miura irons Mark
Not sure where you would categorize Mizuno 225s, but I really enjoy the look, feel, and forgiveness of them. But like you said Mark, there are a plethora of good clubs out there. I do wish I tried the Srixon zx4 irons. If I could put my ego aside, I think the Cleveland launchers would be a blast to play with.
Do you ever test EPON irons? I have gamed most all irons and have landed on the EPON AF 306. Forged by ENDO. Hard to pass on such a top end brand. Thanks
I don’t think anyone knows that Epon forged Tiger’s Titleist irons back in the day. Their forging process is top notch!
I’ve decided to go a bit extreme this year: 9* SIM2 Max D, 16.5* SIM2 Max 3w 1.5“ shorter than normal, 21* SIM2 Max, 24* G425 9w, G425 5H/6H/7H, Miura CB801 8i, Miura TB901 9i/PW, Miura LH Wedge series 52/56/60. I wanted to make everything as easy as possible from 145 and out which is why I went woods and hybrids. I wanted a touch of help with the 8i, it’s at 40* to help the gapping from the hybrids also to be able to get the 9i and PW to 44/48 to blend into the wedges. I want to really dial in everything from 130 and in which is why I went with blades.