I'm in the same situation as you are.  Definitely go try them before you buy some.

I had Cobra SZ (game improvement) and got fitted using Ping G20 and AP1.  It was close, both were better than the Cobras, but the Titleist felt better on clean hits and disguises it's forgiveness - almost deceiving.  Improved ball flight and distance.  Happy as a clam with the AP1s. Although I've had to work to avoid mishits, I don't know that the AP1s have forced me to play better or if I just committed to better ball striking.

Great irons, you will love them

I have a set of AP1 6-PW and love them to death.  I used Eye 2 Blue Dot for a year before that and do-it-yourself Snake Eyes for 2 years before that.

If you know exactly what shaft you need, you can save some money on eBay. 

They are well worth the money. The best irons that I have ever used. You will not go wrong buying them. Be sure to get fitted first.

I recently got custom fitted for the 712 AP1 irons, after having played another set of irons for 12 years (I loved my other set and it was hard to get them out of my bag!).  I am very happy with my decision to go with the AP1s. I highly recommend you get custom fit, as having the correct shaft will optimize your results.

And just a side note - the AP1 offer a good amount of forgiveness with decent looks. I think they are often over looked as they are perceived to be game-improvement clubs; however, I am a low single-digit handicap with a high swing speed and I still find these to be a great club.

I recently had my golf clubs stolen.  After the insurance settlement I immediately replaced my AP1 710 irons with a new set of AP1 712.  The only differences were regular shats and the additional of a Titleist hybrid 19* onstead of a 3 iron.. After two rounds I love the new clubs and have gained 8-10 yards in distance. 

FYI:  I am 62 with a 10 handicap and a swing speed in the high 80s.I

I play the 710 AP2 irons 5-PW. Had been playing an old 3DX Hybrid as a 4 iron then went to the shop to find a new one to replace it. I love the 910h but the sticker price was a bit too much for me. Then I decided to try a 712 AP1 4 iron. Long story short after a few swings with the iron a quick trip to the register and the mild separation anxiety of 100 dollars, I walked out with the 4 iron and it quickly became one of my favorite irons in the bag. It launches high, it flies far, lands soft, and can be worked easily in either direction. GREAT Iron!