GolfWRX.com recently had the opportunity to take a look at the upcoming 2008 lineup of Titlieist Advanced Performance irons, the AP1, AP2, ZB, and ZM irons.

It was a rare peek into the technology, design, and fitting factors which are driving the next generation of Titleist irons.  Today we will cover the ZB and ZM irons. Straight looks, performance, and feel.

 

For the past few years, people have been asking for a mixed set from Titleist targed to better players. Titleist introduced the 735.CM to fill this void and many players took the plunge but some still yearned for a 695CB and 695MB combo set. The ZB now fills that void and modernizes the look, a move which should please many Titleist fans. The compact headed ZB is a blended Cavity set forged from 1025 carbon steel. The 2-4 irons are full cavity back, 5-7 partial cavity back, and 8-P muscle back. The main difference between the irons will center on the 2-7 clubs as the 8-P are identical in each set, only the logo changes. Common to both sets is the “Z” shape, which is not just for looks buts reflects the weighting that’s been moved from heel to toe in each club.

 

The major differences between the two sets lies in the 2-7 irons. The first thing to note is the hosel lengths on the ZB are shorter on the 2-7 irons to lower the center of gravity compared to the ZM. Next, a slightly wider sole on the 2-7 irons give them a moderate bounce compared to the ZM. Finally, there is also slightly more offset with the ZB 2-5 irons and 1* less bounce compared to the ZM. These factors combined, give the ZB a slightly higher ball flight than the ZM. The ZM and ZB 8-P irons are the same on both sets, only the logos differ.  

 

The ZB and ZM have standard Tour loft specs beginning with a 47 degree pitching wedge. Dynamic Gold is the stock shaft and an optional 2 iron will be available. The ZM will be orderable with any custom combination of ZB long irons.  Release is scheduled in the first quarter of 2008, pricing to be determined.

ZB Specifications

Iron No.
2
      3
4
5
6
7
8
9
PW
LOFT( ° )
18
21
24
27
31
35
39
43
47
LIE ( ° )
60
60
61
62
62.5
63
63.5
64
64
BOUNCE ( ° )
0
     1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Offset
.0150"   
0.140"
0.130"
0.120"
0.110"
0.100"
0.090"
0.080"
0.075"

 

ZM Specifications

Iron No.
2
      3
4
5
6
7
8
9
PW
LOFT( ° )
 
21
24
27
31
35
39
43
47
LIE ( ° )
 
60
61
62
62.5
63
63.5
64
64
BOUNCE ( ° )
 
     2     3
4
4.5
5
6
7
8
Offset  
0.125"
0.120"
0.115"
0.110"
0.100"
0.090"
0.080"
0.075"

 
I didn’t get much time to hit the ZB and ZM in depth but, from the few shots that I did take, they did deliver on the traditional Titleist look, feel, and performance. They have the thinner top lines, maximum workability and the feel of a forged iron. For those wanting a traditional combo set these should definetly be on the list for 2008 to try. To see more high resolution pictures and what is being said in the GolfWRX.com Forums, please check out the discussion thread by clicking  >>>Here<<<.