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Review: Mizuno JPX-825 Pro Irons

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Pros: Classy, satin-like finish. Fantastic forged feel. Scoring irons are have thinner toplines than previous JPX series. Excellent forgiveness for their size and better-than-average playability. Versatile triple-cut sole design.

Cons: Not a distance iron. Long irons do not have ground-breaking forgiveness. Completely usable by better players (those who have a handicap of no higher than 6), but some may be turned off by the thicker topline. No love for lefties.

Bottom Line: Mizuno JPX-825 Pro Irons blur the line between game-improvement and players categories. These are not ground breaking, but rather an enhancement of the previous JPX-800 Pros. That’s a good thing for these who are all-round top performers. Solid, soft and deadly accurate. While the recommended handicap range is 6-18, you can bet there will be even better players putting these in the bag.

Tested: Mizuno JPX-825 Pro Irons (4-GW), Standard Length, Loft, 2 degrees up from Mizuno standard with Project X 5.5 Shafts (Soft Stepped 1X)

About Mizuno JPX-825 Pro Irons: The Grain Flow Forged JPX-825 Pro pushes the design limits to achieve greater forgiveness and feel in this players game-improvement iron. The 4-7 irons offer a deep CNC-milled pocket cavity that provides 17 grams of discretionary weight that is used for extreme toe-heel weighting providing plenty of forgiveness where you need it. The 8-GW features a full cavity design with greater thickness behind the impact for a more penetrating and workable ball flight for pinpoint accuracy in the scoring irons. Suggested handicap range: 6-18 (My handicap: 7)

Click here to discuss the Mizuno JPX-825 Pro Irons and hear what other members are saying in the GolfWRX Forums.

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Looks:

Designed to appeal to both the game improvement and traditional iron player, these hit the nail on the head. The not-too-big, not-too-small size appeals to a broad range of players. Previous offerings had cavity stampings that were bold and polarizing. The JPX-825 Pros tone this down a bit. The black cavity graphics are understated, but at the same time are edgy enough to hint there’s technology helping you under the hood.

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The satin-like appearance enhance the technical look. I do wish Mizuno would change the font on the iron numbering a bit. Really, font? Yeah, that’s a little picky, but its squared-off, over-sized appearance is a little dated.

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With iron forgiveness vs. size, there is always a trade off. Mass is needed all around to help with forgiveness, yet a better player is turned off by thicker topline. Well, Mizuno has fooled you this time and you’ll be glad it did. The mass is still there, but thanks to a clever topline bevel, it appears more like a traditional players iron. You’ll thank Mizuno later.

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Performance:

I am a long-time Mizuno game improvement player, from MX-200 to MX-300 Pros to JPX-800 Pros. The latter were one step up from the MX series, and also taught me the importance of custom-fitting (read more on the Mizuno Performance Fitting System here). While these are a different shaft than my beloved 800 Pros, these were recommended by Mizuno and the performance reflected it.

mizuno 825 pro 2013

After four rounds of with the JPX-825 Pros, these perform every bit as well as the 800 Pro model they’ve replaced. You can work these a good deal, or play your natural shot and just fire away. Long irons (4-7) employ an undercut cavity design (thankfully not visible at address) which helps with forgiveness and a hotter face for distance.

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I didn’t find any groundbreaking distance gains, but the consistency was top-notch. The 8-GW have no undercut cavity and are extremely accurate, no doubt helped by the cleaner, scoring iron shape. You can score with these clubs, so get the putter ready.

mizuno 825 pro face2Y9G4743

The flight seemed a little higher to me in the long irons than my 800 Pros. That’s a good thing as it helps stop the ball on the green. I had no problems hitting these lower. Low punches, especially with the scoring irons, were spectacular. They flew low and stopped quickly and were fun to pull off.

Mizuno JPX-825 Pro Iron Specs

Mizuno JPX-825 Pro Iron Specs

Feel:

We’ve all seen “Grain Flow Forged” proudly etched on the hosel of Mizuno forgings. They are some of the best feeling irons around. Feel is excellent and uniform with long and short irons despite the difference in the cavity designs. Somehow, these feel nicer than the JPX-800s they replaced.

These are more muted than a blade on mishits, but still provide great feedback at impact. If you flush one, you know it. Overall feel is excellent and uniform throughout the set. Not quite like a hot knife though butter, but very soft nonetheless. These are easily some of the best feeling clubs in the ‘players game improvement’ category.

Overall:

The JPX-825 Pro Irons continue to blur the line between game improvement and players categories. They do everything well, in a handsome, forgiving forging.

I consider myself a “recovering forged-iron snob.” There was a time I wouldn’t consider an iron that wasn’t forged. Now, I’ve come around to believe technology can help in all clubs, including irons. Multi-material designs and castings all have their advantages for sure, but Mizuno packs technology into a forged iron like no other. Forgiveness, workability and soft feel. When you flush one, you smile. That’s what the game is about.

More info on the JPX-825 Pros on Mizuno’s web site.

Click here to discuss the Mizuno JPX-825 Pro Irons and hear what other members are saying in the GolfWRX Forums.

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37 Comments

37 Comments

  1. Stephen Ife

    Feb 20, 2015 at 3:25 am

    Just bought jpx 825pros cos there wasn’t any difference apart from price with the 850s and I prefer the look on the 825s. Got to say I was a bit unsure with me being a 16 handicapper about playing with forged irons, but I’ve got to say these felt beautiful hitting a 6 iron at 175 yds which is a big improvement on my ping g10s just need some time if work to go and have a game with these beauties. What I’m getting at is don’t be put of with your handicap if they feel right then put in your bag!!!

  2. Dan

    May 10, 2014 at 8:47 am

    I’ve been playing the same course every Friday for over 20 years, averaging 85 or 86 over that time. I received my JPX-825 Pros on Wednesday, hit them at the range on Thursday, and shot 79 at the previously mentioned course on Friday. These are truly some fine irons. I hit them straighter, farther and higher than any set of irons I’ve ever owned.

    • Marty

      Oct 5, 2014 at 10:34 am

      A little advice; Love the 825 pro, got fitted at Edwin Watts, then went elsewhere for an Edel Putter, brought in the 6 iron and the fitter said something is wrong, the club is too heavy, initially he thought they were graphite heads w steel shafts, sent to Miz and they said THATS what was ordered, we changed out the shaft to a liter weight, picked up 9mph swing speed, went from 84 to 77. SWEET!!

  3. JLeclair10

    Nov 22, 2013 at 5:27 pm

    Best clubs ever, I can crush these-so forgiving and long. Thinking about putting these in the bag on tour.

  4. Matt

    Oct 7, 2013 at 12:37 pm

    I started swinging clubs about a year and a half ago and started playing rounds less than a year ago. I’m down to a 22 in that time, playing Adams Idea Tech A4-R. I hit the 825-Pros, and they really do feel good. I’d rather buy a club that will give me room to grow (with full understanding of the practice required), and I’m considering the 825-Pros.22 to 18 doesn’t seem like a tremendous leap, but I’m new to the game. I’m missing the most strokes off the tee, not in ball-striking; but I’d hate to jump into some clubs that could hurt my game.
    Thoughts and/or opinions?

  5. Stewie

    Sep 13, 2013 at 10:21 pm

    I LOVE the way they number their clubs!… I HATE those tiny little airy-fairy numbers on the rest of their line… Reminds me of penmanship class in fourth grade!… Give me BOLD!

  6. Damon

    Aug 30, 2013 at 6:54 pm

    I just picked up my 825 pros w/ aerotech i95x shafts that I had fitted at mk golf tech in SA,Tx and I’m very satisfied w the look, feel and weight. I switched from mp 60s w dyna gold s300 and found that the forged iron heads are similar but the steel fiber shafts w proper fitting is “the deal”. The ball speed was also hotter off the face in 825 pros over the mp 60s w my same swing speed. Being a 10-12 handicapper playing 1x week or so, I found the 825 pros just as sweet as Miura 505s and being properly fit for shafts I’m hitting 12+yards further w control and workability.

  7. Ed

    Aug 19, 2013 at 4:16 pm

    I just put the JPX 825 Pro’s in the bagand after playing MP60’s for 4 years I find the difference in clubs like night and day JPX are much more forgiving. Don’t hesitate to try these if you are in the market for new clubs

  8. Chuck

    Jun 18, 2013 at 3:29 pm

    I purchased my 825’s around Christmas and have been using them since. The more I use the more I like. I do get better distance than my old Titliest 851’s. Had to go back and buy the GW for my 95-110 shots. I choke down and can control the distance very easily with 7I-GW. If you looking for forgiveness and consistent feel these will perform for you. I am hitting more greens than ever and a few more 2 putt pars never hurt!!!

  9. Adam

    Jun 11, 2013 at 11:20 pm

    Wow. Just played my new 825 Pros for the first time. No offense to my wife or daughter, but today was the happiest day of my life. I finally set down my pride, benched my mp59/69 combo set, and along with a new mallet (ugly as sin) putter, put these so called game improvement irons to the test. I normally fire a 74-76 at my home course from the back tees (72.4/144). I only played 9 today, but with no warm up shot a 34. Here is the fun part; This was just a test of my irons so I hit no more than my 4 iron even off the tee. These irons are amazing. They are not overly big and I say this being a snob when it comes to asthetics. I love my mp69’s and collect scotty camerons (own 7). But along with still looking nice, the irons are awesome. Mishits still reach the green and do not curve offline nearly as much as my normal misses. Distance is slightly longer but the main advantage is consistancy. My approach into #9 was 171. I misshit a 7 short and left a 20 ft putt. For analytical sake, I dropped another and flushed one, thinking it would go long in comparison, and left myself 10ft short. A diff of only 3 yds, are you kidding me!!!??? Maybe you ate a gluten for punishment but me, I’d rather score.
    I am sure there are other good “players GI irons” out there too, but do yourself a favor, swallow your pride, sell your blades, and get yourself some forgiving irons! And the 825 Pros are as sweet as they get!

  10. jim

    Jun 6, 2013 at 12:44 am

    Had the JPX-825 Pro’s custom fitted. Also hit the regular 825’s but the feel of forged was awesome and I hit the ball better according to the computer. Shot a 1-under round today (for 9 holes). My good rounds for nine have mostly fallen in the 3-over range. Also added the MP R12 Sand and Lob wedges. I love the look of the 825’s at address. The top line is the right balance between thick and thin.

    Previously had been playing Ping ISI-S irons. The feel of the 825’s when hit in the center really is like butter. Off-center balls also are not punished too badly.

    Do find someone good to fit you. I was surprised at the shaft I needed. I assumed I was an R flex, but needed a stiff. They used the same device on me I saw then use on Luke Donald in a Mizuno video in addition to the launch monitor, and bent the irons to match my lie angle.

  11. Phil

    Jun 1, 2013 at 11:12 pm

    Just got these, hit the range and then the links. I have been struggling to find a new set ( played 762 DCI) for a couple of years.

    The problem is that all of the newer technology wants you to swing and hope the ball goes far and maybe near the pin. I am not a big offset player and like to craft a shot. Nothing crazy a fade here or the a punch or knockdown every so often. These clubs are great for that.

    I am very very satisfied with these. Found them to be very forgiving for a players iron (10 hcp, at best a 7).

    Distance? I picked up a club in this area as I was using some other irons of late (not the dci’s). I think they certainly help although I don’t really need the distance more so the accuracy.

    In all these irons feel excellent, allow you to work it a good amount and feel like laser pointers. I am good for another 5-7 years. Play well!

  12. john

    Apr 27, 2013 at 10:25 pm

    I just bought Mizino 58 I love the look and feel of them but the rifle shaft on the 4-6 iron have a high kick point,where I think it should be a lower kick point.The 7-PW feel pretty good.Im thinking about putting a True Temper Multi Step Lite Steel Golf Shaft in the 4-6 irons I’ll post something after I give that a try.I wish I would have bought the JPX-825.

  13. Stephen

    Apr 23, 2013 at 4:31 pm

    I have had my Mizuno 825 Pros for a couple of weeks now and I still love them. I got them with the S300 SL shaft and picked up some yardage compared to my former Ping G20s. I fell in love with these as soon as I took one down from the rack and noticed the leading and trailing edge grind. The course I play regularly is traditionally soft and a little sticky. I thought this grind would be an improvement in playability over the “backhoe” sole of the G20s. I think Mizuno makes some of the finest forged irons in the world. This is my second set after my MP33s. You cannot go wrong with this brand.

  14. jomo1960

    Apr 2, 2013 at 10:30 pm

    Had tried the JPX 800 (not pro) last year, they felt terrible, in every aspect!! This year, the 825 Pro was a real surprise; these felt great, and looked great! Just got fitted for a set, cant wait to try them out next week… On the simulator, already gained 7-10 yards, and ball flight was perfect for me (mid flight) with sidespin below acceptable levels (less than 800 rpm). The best thing about these clubs are that hey are not tweaked with stronger lofts, giving you the impression that you’re hitting them longer!! No sir, the lofts are the same as my MX-23’s from 7 years ago:))

  15. Ruddy

    Apr 1, 2013 at 11:57 am

    I just hit the 825’s and the 825 Pros at a custom fitting with the Mizuno rep. The Pros felt great, you could tell the difference between forged and cast. The Pros heads were slightly smaller. That said, I flushed every strike with the Pros. They felt sweet. However, before I hit the Pros I had hit the 825s. They were definately 10 yards longer, but so what? But the surprising stat: the height. The standard 825s were longer AND HIGHER. So I went with them. As far as game improvement or not, who cares? If I hit great, no one will ask.

  16. Stuart

    Mar 14, 2013 at 4:13 pm

    I am trying to decide between the Ping i20s and the Mizuno JPX 825 Pros. I like both of them more than my current Ping G20s, which have a huge sole, and am making better contact with the ball more consistently with both of irons. Since I am only a 13.5 index, I think I should get the irons that are more forgiving as I will likely be happier with them in the long run (and on the course rather than the range). Which irons do you think would be more forgiving the i20s or the 825 Pros?

    • shawn

      Apr 1, 2013 at 11:08 am

      I’m considering the same two sets. I’ve hit both and am a slight lean to i20s yellow plus1/4 inch. I’m playing AP2s now and have been for the past couple of years but feel like need something a little more forgiving. My handicap is 8.

    • Uzi

      Jun 20, 2013 at 2:07 pm

      Stuart. I am a 6 handicapper. I was playing with Titleist 695CB and had never considered another Iron other than Titleist. But lately I was struggling with my carry distances on longer irons (age slowing me down I guess – I ain’t no spring chicken anymore :). So I went and found a highly recommended fitter in town. After speaking to him and trying various offerings that he though would be good for me, settled on a Mizuno mixed bag. I currently am playing MP59 (8-PW), MP53 (5-7), JPX 800 Pro (3,4) and couldn’t be happier. MP 59’s are very accurate and allow me to play all the shots that I want 165 yards and less. MP53 are good and compared to CB’s have restored my carry distances. But the biggest jackpot is my JPX Pro’s in 3/4 irons! You may want to consider doing something similar with Mizunos. I am still playing my Dynamic Golf X300 shafts. I am not a ping fan so my vote will not be for it.

      Cheers and happy golfing.

  17. Jory

    Jan 15, 2013 at 9:00 pm

    Ok – been playing with Tommy Armour 845’s for the last 5 years. Great clubs actually. However, my handicap is about 15. I consider myself a good ball striker, but will consistently have a blow up hole per round and wish I putted better.

    The 825’s look huge and ugly compared to the 825 Pro’s to me. How will it be coming off the Tommy Armour’s with smaller heads to these 825 pro’s?

    • George

      Mar 13, 2014 at 9:27 pm

      I bought my my son a set of TA 845s when he was 12, he’s now 23 and won’t even look at another set of clubs. I’ve hit his and they do feel like butter when hit right. I play the 825 Pro’s and I don’t see they have the feel of the 845s, but I hit a lot more greens than my son. I played the 800’s before I got my 825 Pro’s and I definitely had an increased in distance by at least 15 yds. I could hit a five iron to a 200 yd par 3 and stop it on the green. I can tell you honestly that the original 800s have no feel at all. It is very forgiving. You can hit a toe or heal and hardly know it,

  18. Steve

    Jan 6, 2013 at 7:19 pm

    Looked at the JPX-825’s. Went with a set of Wishon 560 MC’s with Rifle shaft. Just as good a feel but with better distance at a lot less $$$. Anyone thinking of getting “fitted” should look at the wishon golf website, find a certified fitter and see for yourself.

  19. D2Doug

    Dec 12, 2012 at 5:37 pm

    I have the prior generation JPX-800 PROS. But I started with the JPX-800, and thought maybe if I pushed the envelope, I could make the JPX-800 PROs work for me. I have had pretty good success with the short clubs. But 4-6 have been a little tough except when I am really “on”. Lucky for me, I have both the cast 800s and the forged 800s, so I play a combined set. I don’t worry about a degree here or there or even combined shafts (graphite and steel). But if I had to choose one set, it would be the standard cast JPX-800 or higher. Fantastic irons all the way through the set. But the pros, regardless of what generation sure are “buttery” smooth for feel.

  20. Joe Caddie

    Nov 30, 2012 at 5:36 pm

    As far as the recommended handicap: you need to be a 12 or better to get the best out of these sticks, just my opinion , I’m a 10.

  21. Joe Caddie

    Nov 30, 2012 at 11:13 am

    I never felt i was good enough to hit blades. Have had every TM model in my bag for the past ten years .My ball striking has improved now that i am retired,so I decided to go to my local fitter and try the latest forged irons a try. The JPX 825’s hit the mark for me because they are a perfect “crossover” from pure improvement to players. Love the look and the Mizuno forging is first class………..give them a try before you buy another…. Good Luck in 2013

  22. Joe Golfer

    Nov 30, 2012 at 12:24 am

    Considering these are the “pro” version of the JPX-825 irons, it would be nice if the lofts were closer to what a “pro” iron would be. Let the standard version have the strong lofts.
    These “pro” irons have a 45* PW, which seems strong for a tour version.
    It’s supposed to be made for the discerning player who wants consistent distance gaps more than ridiculous yardage and bigger gaps between their short irons.

  23. psychsurfer

    Nov 29, 2012 at 10:25 pm

    I put these irons in my bag a month ago and have played over 20 rounds with them. I like the look at address. The feel is buttery, and they are very accurate. I have little appreciable loss of distance on off center hits. I am an 8 handicap and I am sure these clubs will be in my bag for many seasons to come. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a solid performer with a good bit of forgiveness.

  24. dunn2500

    Nov 22, 2012 at 10:46 pm

    you cant blame mizuno for your disappointment in a set of irons……….cause bunch o people loved an iron so you bought it and are disappointed?……….i love mizuno’s stuff but did not like 800 pro…..glad they improved on it, imo it is much better feeling and looking………i am also glad they find ways to tweak and make better so R&D keeps growing

    mizuno is the best domestic iron manufacturer out right now i believe but i do not like all of their irons………thats why there are different models cause one is not supposed to suffice everyone……i pick my irons based off what i like not what i have read about.i have no idea who these people are that are starting threads and reviews, just because they liked it doesnt do me much good….

    this jpx i could game and may very well give it a go shortly……..very good improvement hit all the areas i wasnt fond of the 800’s

  25. mark

    Nov 17, 2012 at 8:23 am

    in response to chris, there is absolutly no difference in performance distance / dispersion between 800 pro and 825 pro the only differences are purely cosmetic. the bevel edge on the sole of the clubs supposedly creates less turf drag but unless you are a robot doubt you would notice the difference in performance the thinner top line is actualy no thinner than the 800 pro they only put a 45 degree bevel on the back edge so it appears thinner but the mass properties remain the same. as for anything relating to feel is purely subjective what feels “soft” to one person may not be your idea of soft. also in response to Mike when u are in the “players” iron bracket as you are blades ect the manufacturer is designing these clubs with the intent that the player is doing most of the work not the club although they may offer some forgivness with slight cavity backing whatever you need to be hitting it flush and with good speed for the irons to work as they should if you are looking for forgivness you may be looking in the wrong direction, i think with marketing in this age manufacturers tell use technology is advancing every 5 minuets but in reality it is not gaining us that much distance / accuracy, you need only look in nealy all tour players bags for proff of this if the tech was realy advancing as they say it is why is it tour players on average change their irons maybe 3-4 years actaul models of irons ofc they will need new models of same iron due to the fact they wear out clubs way faster than the average golfer

  26. chris

    Nov 15, 2012 at 11:49 am

    Disappointed in Mizuno. Cranking out bs clubs like TM. I bought the 800 Pros and was told they were the best thing since buttered bread. Now their lead guy “Chris” is in videos talking about how much better the 825 pro is from the 800. Just marketing bs. Oh…and the 59 seems like a loser too as everyone on tour dropped it quickly when the 64 came out. Way to rip us off Mizuno.

    • Mike

      Nov 15, 2012 at 7:02 pm

      I agree Chris, II bought the MP 58’s and I don’t think any one on tour played these, not that it matters, but it was the top players iron on Golf Digest hot list. After playing them for two years, I’m not really happy with them. I thought they would be more forgiving, but that’s not the case. I love the forged feel and that’s what turned me onto these sticks. I’m a 7 handicap and am looking for something different, any suggestions?

  27. Casey

    Nov 9, 2012 at 4:02 pm

    Probably not available for left handers like the JPX 800 pros. That sucks.

  28. Rob Miller

    Nov 9, 2012 at 1:51 pm

    Soft stepping is done to make the shaft play slightly weaker to its designated flex.

    In this case, the 3 iron shaft is installed in the 4 iron head, the 4 iron shaft in the 5 iron, and so on.

    You can also soft-step a more than once. 3 iron shaft in a 5 iron, etc.

    Hard stepping is the opposite. A 4 iron shaft is placed in the 3 iron head, etc.

    • Mike

      Nov 10, 2012 at 4:00 pm

      Will a club fitter know if I need this done?

      • Jake

        Nov 15, 2012 at 12:36 am

        Yes, a qualified clubfitter would absolutely be able to find the proper flex for you. This may include soft stepping or hard stepping.

  29. Mike

    Nov 9, 2012 at 1:31 pm

    What is soft stepping?

  30. Geemer

    Nov 8, 2012 at 9:57 pm

    Just picked up my 825 pro’s and had the chance to play with them today. I must say the review is spot on. The forged feel is what Mizuno specializes in. Do not let the “game improvement” title fool you. These irons are just as workable as any other player iron on the market. Mizuno doesn’t cease to amaze.

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Club Junkie

Club Junkie Review: Cobra’s new King Tour irons

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The Cobra King Tour irons have been proven on the PGA Tour already and will be in bags of better amateur players this year. The previous King Tour MIM irons were very underrated and offered great precision with a solid shape that many players liked. Cobra went away from the Metal Injection Molded construction and went with a five-step forging process for soft and solid feel.

Make sure to check out the full podcast review at the links below and search GolfWRX Radio on every podcast platform.

I was a big fan of the previous Tour MIM irons and played them in rotation throughout the last two years. Out of the box, I was impressed with the more simple and clean look of the badging on the new King Tour. Badging is mostly silver with just small black accents that should appeal to even the pickiest golfers. I didn’t notice the shorter blade length in the new irons but did notice that the leading edge is just slightly more rounded. Topline is thin, but not razor thin, but still has enough there to give you the confidence that you don’t have to hit it on the dead center every shot.

Feel is solid and soft with just a slight click to the thud on well struck shots while mishits are met with a little more sound and vibration to the hands.

These King Tour irons are built to be cannons and place more emphasis on consistent and precise shots. I also felt like the new irons launch easily and maybe a touch higher than some irons in the same category.

My launch monitor showed my 7 iron with an average launch angle of 22 degrees and spin right around 5,800 with a Project X LZ 6.0 stock shaft. Ball speed isn’t the ultimate focus of this iron but it did well with an average around 108mph and the iron was able to keep the speed up well when you didn’t strike the center. You will still see a drop off in speed and distance when you miss the center, but you don’t have to be Navy SEAL sniper accurate on the face to achieve a good shot. Dispersion was very tight, and while there are bigger irons with more forgiveness, this players cavity still allows good playability when you aren’t bringing your A-plus game to the course.

Cobra lists the King Tour as an iron for a Tour level player up to a 7 handicap and I think this iron could see the bags of more golfers than that. I am a 9.4 handicap, and I felt more than comfortable playing this iron even on less than perfect days.

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Iron Reviews

Review: Honma TW737-Vs Forged Irons

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Equipment

GolfWRX Member Reviews: TaylorMade 2017 M1 and M2 Irons

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One of the many benefits of being a GolfWRX Forum Member is exclusive access to Giveaways and Testing Threads. For Giveaways — we give away everything from golf clubs to golf balls to GPS units — all it takes is a forum name. Enter any Giveaway, and we select winners randomly. You’re then free to enjoy your prize as you wish.

For Testing Threads, the process a bit more involved. GolfWRX Forum Members sign up to test the latest and greatest products in golf, and then they provide in-depth reviews on the equipment. Being the intelligent golf-equipment users they are, GoflWRX Members are able to provide the most-informed and unbiased reviews on the Internet.

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In this Testing Thread, we selected 75 members to test a TaylorMade M1 2017 7-iron and TaylorMade M2 7-iron. Each of the clubs were built with the stock lofts and shafts — M2 2017 (28.5 degrees) with a TaylorMade Reax shaft, and M1 2017 (30.5 degrees) with a True Temper Dynamic Gold S300 shaft — and the testers were instructed to post their review of the clubs here.

Below, we’ve selected what we’ve deemed the most in-depth and educated reviews out of the 75 testers. We have edited each of the posts for brevity, clarity and grammar.

Thanks to all of those involved in the testing!

Brock9007

To be honest, looking down on the TaylorMade M1 and M2 irons at address, there is really not much difference. I would have to pick one up to see which is which.

The first 10 balls I hit were with M1 and 6/10 felt great, while the other 4 were toe hits, which I felt and the distance reflected that. Kinda what I expected with a club design for lower-handicap players. Distance was about 1/2 longer than my Srixon iron and dispersion was close, as well. I will say they did not feel as good as the Srixon on center hits.

Next 10 (ok, 15) balls were with the M2. Wow, can you say “up, up and away? The ball really popped of the club face, but wasn’t a ballon flight. Waited for the ball to come down and WTH, with the roll out it was 5-8 yards longer than balls hit with M1, and that is with a few toe shots. I did some smooth swings and then very aggressive swings and was a little amazed at this iron. Just like the M1, it does not have the forged feeling and does have a clicky sound (which I hate).

Bottom line: M2 is the longest iron I have ever hit. I love my 545s, but I could see myself playing M2 very easily. Matter of fact, I will be taking this M2 7 iron in my bag and play it more head-to-head against my Srixon 545 on the course.

deathbymuffin

These are both beautiful clubs. What surprised me the most is how much alike the two clubs look at address. I was expecting a chunky topline and significant offset in the M2, but it’s footprint looked almost exactly the same as the M1, outside of the chrome finish on the M2 versus the frosted finish of the M1. The M2 could almost pass as a player’s iron to my eye at address. These clubs both get A’s from me in the looks department.

The M1 felt a tad thicker than most player’s irons I’m used to, but it seemed to come with a bit of added forgiveness too. Well-struck shots felt good, with a nice mid-trajectory and with the workability that I’ve come to expect from a player’s iron. But true to TaylorMade’s claims, the M1 seemed more forgiving than a traditional player’s iron. Had a nice soft feel at impact, mishits didn’t sting and left you with a more playable result. A really nice combination of the better attributes of both player’s and game improvement irons. I’ve been playing with an old set of Tommy Armour blades, but I’ve been recently wanting more forgiveness for when I’m stuck with my B or C swing. Based on the early returns, I could definitely see myself bagging these.

I’m not sure if it’s the shaft, the design of the clubhead, or a combination of both, but the M2 is definitely a different animal than the M1 at impact. This club launches the ball high, arguably ridiculously so. I was hitting Jason Day moonbombs with this bad boy. Didn’t seem to matter what kind of swing I put on it, the ball launched high, flat and dead straight. The club was super forgiving and if not for the insanely high ball flight, I would love to have a set of these for when my swing is out of sorts. I didn’t really try to flight it at all, so I’m not sure what it’s capable of at this point. One other note was that the M2 had a clicky feel at impact. It didn’t bother me since it still felt so sweet… so strange as it sounds, clicky, but smooth and sweet at the same time. I think these clubs will be big winners with the mid-to-high handicap set.

The M1 is a fine iron, but doesn’t really stand out in any way from other irons of its class.

The M2, on the other hand, is an iron on steroids. I’m really starting to love this thing. It’s super forgiving and just goes and goes. According to my laser, flush shots were going 195 yards (my usual blade 5 iron distance) and very high. I can’t help but think golf would be a whole lot easier, particularly longer courses with long par 3s, with a full set of these in my bag.

poppyhillsguy

M1 feels softer than the M2 and I felt the ball flight was more consistent and what I want in an iron. The M1 did have a harsher feeling in my hands than I typically like, but I’m going to credit a lot of that to the range balls.

M2 flies very high. It was a windy afternoon and about 100 degrees. I love the high ball flight on the range, but I have a concern what that ball flight would be like on the course. I like to hit the ball different heights for different shots and I don’t think I could do that confidently with the M2, but I could with the M1. I don’t like the sound of the M2. It sounded “clicky” to me.

Fourpar18

Initially on the range I was scared because the M1 had a regular flex in it, so I took it easy for my initial 10-15 swings with it. Ball SHOT off the face, loud crack (didn’t care for it, but not too bad) and ball just kept rising and rising but didn’t balloon. I thought, “whoa,” that’s not what I expected…did it again…another CRACK and the ball just flew. I set another down and I paid attention to how it looked behind the ball, not much offset for a game improvement and I thought…”I could actually play this club!”  The 5-7 were EASY swings, aimed at a target of 170 yards away (my normal 7 iron distance) and with a EASY swing I was flying it by 20 yards or so. The next 5-10 I really went after it, same CRACK and ball just flew but to my surprise it was a nice draw, harder draw than the first but it was a nice 10-yard draw. This time the balls were landing just short of the 200 yard marker. Damn, 200 yards with a 7 iron! I know they are jacked lofts but it feels good to say “my 7 irons just few 190-200 yards!”

P.S. LOVE the Lamkin UTX grip!

Now, this was interesting, the M2 was quieter then the M1… weird!  Now, there is more carbon fiber added to this one and there is a “Geocoustic” label on the back. I am sure that it has something to do with all that carbon fiber but it does have a better sound. Other than the sound, it played exactly like the M1: long and straight. The REAX shaft felt a little weaker than the True Temper shaft and it flew a little higher but nothing else I could pick up.

noahdavis_7

Finally got out to the range after getting these bad boys in on Friday. My first impression of them is that they look really sharp. The graphics and design really stand out and really give these clubs a cool, modern look.

They were both a little to big IMO, as I am currently bagging Mizuno MP-68s. The M2 isa definite “game improvement iron”, while the M1 was similar in size and shape to my previous irons, Titleist AP1s.

They both really launch it, high and far. Ridiculous for 7 irons. I don’t have access to a launch monitor, but it was about a 20-yard difference between my gamer 7 iron and these (stronger lofts, as well).

The M1 definitely was more suited for my eye, and produced more consistent ball flights. It felt much more smooth and solid as the M2 had a clicky, cheap feel.

The M2 just isn’t for me. I felt like it was launching too high and ballooning, which could be due to the shaft (the M1 had the S300, while the M2 just had a stock “Reax” shaft). The feel off the face of the M2 just turned me off, to be honest.

While I don’t think I’ll be putting either model in play, I can definitely see the appeal for mid-to-high handicaps. Both irons were super forgiving, and they should be a dream to the average weekend golfer who has trouble with ball striking consistently.

golfnut5438

Looks: As expected, I preferred the M1 with less offset, slightly smaller sole and a smoother finish. Less glare looking down on the iron. I must say the M2 did not look as bulky, or have as much offset as I thought it might have.

Feel: This was a close race, probably due to the shafts as much as the heads. The M1 was just a slight bit smoother feeling on solid shots. But the M2 was not bad at all, just not quite as smooth.

Distance and performance: Our range has a slight incline up the length of the range, so specific yardage gains or losses were difficult to measure. Both irons had a higher trajectory than my gamer 7 iron. Neither sole dug onto the turf either. The lofts for both irons are a degree or two stronger than mine, so I would think they probably flew a little further than my gamers. Neither iron flew “too” high, however. Might be a little harder to hit knock down shots, though.

Final thoughts: I had hit both the M1 and M2 irons last year during a fitting day, but did not like either. This year’s model were both better in my eyes. I asked a fellow member at our club to hit both and he felt the M1 was his preferred model, and he is a 20-index player. So coming from both a single digit, and a high double-digit, the M1 won this battle of wills. I will try and see if I can locate both a 5 iron and 9 iron to see if a full set might be a winner for me.

DblEgl

I was surprised that the M2 was the winner in this brief session. It felt better, flew higher, easier to hit and about 1/2 club longer that my gamer Apex CF16. The feel/sound was better than I thought it might be, but really not up to the CF16. I could, however, easily game the M2’s.

Bstein74

Feel: I hit the M2 first, and found it to be very solid when hit on the screws. There was almost no feel off the club face at all. When I mishit it, you knew it was, but it wasn’t harsh at all. Hit the M1 next, and same type of feel when hit solid. Much more harsh when mishit though, but I knew that was coming.

Distance and performance: This is was where I was curious to see how they would play. The M2 went out high in the air, and just kept going forever. Now granted my eyesight isn’t that great anymore, but it looked like I got about 10-15 yards more from the M2 compared to my Wilson D300. The only thing I didn’t like about the M2 was how much I was able to turn it over. Got a lot more hook compared to my D300. Don’t know if that was from the REAX shaft, but would love to find a less spinning shaft to correct that.

The M1 wasn’t a great performer for me. Same height as the M2, but much straighter off the club face. Didn’t get any great distance advantage as compared to my D300. Can’t game a player’s iron anymore, and testing this one just reaffirmed that.

Final thoughts: Was very happy with the distance I gained with the M2 compared to my current gamer. Very good-performing iron for me, and something I would definitely consider changing them out if I could reduce the spin off the face. If you’re looking for more distance, you need to try these out. The M1 just wasn’t for me, but as a player’s iron, I can see it as a great option.

Bobcat271

Like the other testers, I found the M2 to launch the ball much higher and is 10-to-15 yards longer than my Adams XTD forged 7 iron. Of the two 7 irons I prefer the M1. I like the design of the M1 and its visual appearance at address. I feel more confident in trying to work the ball with the M1. The M1 gave me more feedback as to where the club head was in relation to my swing plane. If I had my druthers I would put the M1 in the bag as it stands now. Will continue to test, what a treat to compare the two irons.

myurick2

Once I started making solid contact with a decent shoulder turn, the M2 really came alive in my hands. Towering flat height, for me, and very long. No more clacky hollow feel, just a very mild pleasant sensation… then zoom. Once I started making better swings, back to the M1, which was a very nice iron. Shorter than the M2 (though not short) and a little lower ball flight. Felt nice and substantial without being heavy. Very forgiving on slight mishits.

But the M2 was the star for me. High trajectory and very long. Club felt lively and fun. Frankly, unless a player wanted a lower trajectory, or likes to hit a lot of knock downs or feel shots, I don’t know why anyone wouldn’t choose the M2. They are very attractive and a very fun iron. I think folks who say that the M2 feels and/or sounds clicky, clacky or hollow may be mishitting the iron toward the toe. I am not judging — I mishit a lot of shots at first. I agree on toe mishits the iron did not feel great. It almost felt like plastic. The ball still flew pretty well, but it wasn’t a very enjoyable experience. Not painful, just felt very dead. But when hit nearer the center, the iron felt fantastic. Light, springy and very lively. 

hammergolf

They are both good-looking clubs. Not too long heel to toe and toplines were not that distracting. M1 is more what I like to see shape wise, but M2 was not bad at all. Personally, not a fan of seeing the face slots. But I could see how some people may like how they frame the ball. 

Ace2000

M1 

– Has a very odd sound on contact, almost sounds a tad like a fairway wood “ting. Not a fan
– Looks very good at address with the brushed finish
– Most shots I hit with it seemed to fall out of the sky (very likely a lack of spin). Ball flight was much lower than I would have expected (not super low, just not much different than my 7 iron)
– Inconsistent misses. Next to no distance gains vs RocketBladez Tour 7 iron

M2

– Doesn’t look as good at address as the M1. Chrome finish at address is not an issue in even direct sunlight for me
– Feels and sounds quite nice to my ears at impact. Not a classic sound but very good considering what type of club it is
– Ball flight is very strong (comes off hot). Ball stays high in the air for awhile. Very high and lands soft
– 10-12 yards longer on average vs my 7 iron, it even had the horsepower to hang with my 6 iron
– VERY forgiving on thin strikes. Couldn’t believe how a near-top still traveled to nearly the front edge in the air and still went as far as the M1 did on a good strike
– Shaft is too light

Even though I’m a 2-handicap and don’t fit the M2 “mold,” I could see myself playing this club from 4-6 iron (although gapping would be a major issue mixing these with almost anything else) if it had a heavier shaft in it (I can only imagine how far this 4 iron must go… yikes)

M1 = 2.5/5 stars
M2 = 4.5/5 stars

tpeterson

Visual first impressions: The M1 7-iron is visually appealing to me as far as the finish and overall look. Even though it is classified as a player’s iron, it doesn’t seem so tiny that it would be tough to hit. I am not a huge fan of the bright-yellow badging, but I probably could get over it. The iron inspires confidence with its topline and a little bit of offset. The “rubber” piece on the hosel is a little bit funky to me.

I thought the M2 7-iron would look clunkier than it really is. Besides the finish being a little bit different, the difference between the M1 and M2 is actually pretty small. The M2’s topline and sole are a touch wider, but not by much. Not a huge fan of the fluted hosel since it can be seen at address. The M1’s fluting is only on the rear of the club.

I did notice that the sole’s finish did scratch pretty easily. Overall, I thought the M1 and M2 are pretty good looking, but I would definitely give the edge to the M1. I also preferred the stock Lamkin grip on the M1 vs. the ribbed M2 grip.

On course action: They both feel solid. I tried hitting both irons in all different types of on-course situations over a two week period. Both clubs launch the ball high but I would not say they balloon. For me, the M2 was about 10 yards longer and higher than the M1. Compared to my Cleveland irons, they are 1 to 1.5 clubs longer.

M1 loft = 30.5
M2 loft = 28.5
Cleveland TA7 loft = 33.5

I know this accounts for the distance gain but the ball definitely comes off hot compared to my set. I was hoping I would hit the M1 better since I like the appearance better, but that was not the case. The M2 definitely felt better for me and I felt more confident with it in my hands.

Discussion: Read all 75 reviews and the responses in our Testing Thread

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