Do you think iron technology has advanced alot?

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By Andrew F

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  • 6 Replies
  1. Andrew F

    Andrew F
    London

    Hi all, I was wondering if people think that iron technology has advanced a lot of the last decade or so?

    I play off +2 and have gamed the Titleist 680 blades for nearly 10 years now; but I wonder if i'm missing out by not keeping up with the latest tech?

    I've hit the new 714's recently (AP2's, MB's and CB's) but didn't notice a big leap in technology, or in fact any major improvement.

    There has obviously been a big change in wood technology though - my 913 driver was a major advancement on my 905T for example in terms of distance and ball speed. 

    Any thoughts? Perhaps forged blades are all much of a muchness? 

    P.S. I think it's interesting that Adam Scott has reverted back to his 680's, and Webb Simpson used his until very recently. 

  2. Bomber3

    Bomber3
    Lake St Louis, MO

    Military

    If we are talking about all irons across the board, I would say yes.  I think the the improvements for irons that are targeted at lower handicap players are probably pretty subtle and most mid to high handicappers would never be able to appreciate the changes.  On the other end of the spectrum, I think that technological advances are more readily apparent in irons that are labeled "game improvement" and "max game improvement".  The use on new materials, weighting, welding techniques, etc... has helped to create irons that have made the game much more enjoyable for the less accomplished players.

  3. Spudstarch

    Spudstarch
    Walnut Creek, CA

    I wouldn't say advanced, so much as broadened. At first, everyone had to learn to use blades, and mishits felt terrible. Now they have manipulated the COG location and perimeter weighting to suit a wide variety of players depending upon the needs of their swing. Manufacturers have also started to include various inserts and plastics to alter feel so that this game doesn't have to be as masochistic as it used to be.

    Personally I think the leaps in technology have more to do with the balls. Give me three different clubs with the same loft, length, and lie and I will hit a prov1 the same distance. Give me one club and 3 different types of balls, and the results will be staggering.

  4. NCBob

    NCBob
    Hampstead, NC

    Military

    I believe the biggest change in irons would be in  groove technology.  The other areas, the shafts are getting better and the options have been expanded significantly.  Are the clubs the same as 10 years ago, no way.  They may have the same name but I think they have been upgraded considerably.  

  5. tdogg21

    tdogg21
    Chambersburg, PA

    If you're referring to full blades designed for the scratch golfer, then there probably hasn't been major improvements.  Except for maybe the grooves giving you more control out of the rough.  However, I think there have been massive improvements on irons for everyone else.  I have traditionally played an iron style that would be the same category as the AP2s.  I hadn't upgraded in close to 15 years when I came across a deal that was too good to pass up.  The differences were night and day.  I gained 2 full clubs in distance without sacrificing any height or spin.  I would say your best bet would be to try to demo a "new" set on the course. 

  6. Edward K

    Edward K
    Wesley Chapel, FL

    Military
    I'll agree with Spudstarch on this one. I hit every reputable iron the same, give or take a fraction. Hit on the sweet spot, all the new game improvement irons perform well. I think all the manufacturers have good golf balls, but the Pro V series reigns supreme.
  7. Matt B

    Matt B
    Columbus, OH

    There is only so much to do with a forged blade. However manufacturers have made improvements in the launch conditions of the longer irons. The older 680 blades have a much higher muscle behind them when compared to the current 714 blade, that would be a lower launching iron than the 714, also with the higher cg in the 680 it would probably create more side spin for added workability, that may be why the pro's still play them. I would compare the 3 iron between the 680/714 if you want to see the difference. IMO

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