Was custom fit 3 years ago. In the long run it saved me money. Instead of purchasing a set off the shelf every year or two and hoping it would improve my game. I decided to visit an independent golf shop and try being fitted. Didn't care the brand or shaft. All I was looking for was back spin and decent angle to stop the ball where I wanted. They took a lot of time in looking at things we don't consider. Angle of attack, swing path, speed of the club head, lie angle and so on. Three years with my Wilson Staff blades and couldn't be happier! Do plan on going back now and letting them gap my clubs to get my distance more consistent. Biggest advice I can give anyone is to let the fitter do their job. If you hit Mizuno better than Wilson, then go with it or vice versa. If game improvement clubs work, then great. Same with shafts, lots of brands but fitting is key. You'll enjoy the game more in the long run.
According to one of the super main marketing brands, apparently 3-5 years is the most common time to renew irons.... Personally I think 5-10 is the closer range of years between iron renewals, as long as they've been fit correctly to start with of course 😉👍🏻
@@loopba didn't mean new as off the shelf but as in different clubs. Being used or otherwise. Seen guys use a set of seconds a year and change. Then try that set. I was guilty of trying a different set every Year or two myself. Maybe even more.
Got my MP30 irons in 2003/4 and i would love some new mizuno's but with the prices as high as they are now i will probably play them until I can't play anymore. I'm Still using a Callaway stealhead lll 5 wood and that is definitely staying in the bag. Great club.
I just moved on from a set of 12 year old steel shaft irons and was fitted for the JPX 923 Hot Metal irons. As a senior my distance was really diminishing with the old irons. Since moving to the new irons I now hit each iron 15-20 yards farther and have lowered my handicap by 5!
I would say, if you want to get better you might want to play up a bit and grow into the irons that you eventually want to be in. If you are a GI player but you are really working on your game and wanting to lower your handicap, get players distance irons. It will train you to have better strikes. If you are a super casual player that plays just a few times a year, then by all means get some GI irons and have fun.
Excellent explanation of key concepts. I was custom fit this year at a “big box” golf store in Toronto. Did not receive no where near the expert advice provided by your video. Lesson learned. Thx for great video.
Excellent video. I was in a lesson the other day and ranged between 84-86mph with my 7 iron. So so many sets traded between players and blades, but the overall summary was that I can use any head from blade to CB as long as it's the right shaft. For example, recently had a set of P7MC (2020) with KBS Tour. I see a set with quite expensive Oban shafts in them. Also 120g shafts, and I hate them. Stiffer handle and while my shot dispersion is tighter, I cannot stand the feel of them. Same head lol - Shafts are so important.
Great video Jay , just ordered some JPX 923 tours feel like a complete imposter playing off 18hcp but hit them so much better than all the hollow backs !!
Your charts have confirmed what I have thought for a long time. I have game improvement irons but very slow swing speed so I get no launch height. I believe I need to go with a HL iron!
Thanks for this info and the charts. Makes it much easier to get through the enormous amount of choices. Was custom fit into graphite shaft Mavrik a few years ago but have never got comfortable with the look of the heads. This info should help me with my next set. Thanks.
Always a great watch Jay, I think something can get overlooked when it comes to an iron fitting is the sole width and design. Thanks as always for the content
I’m a plus one hdcp at 54 and tried to chase distance with strong lofted forgiving irons and I have found the thinner the sole the better I hit it so hitting t100 8 iron 140 is better and way more accurate than hitting t200 8 155 night and day diff for me
Wow, good for you and I agree with your thinking. I'm 75 and don't want to play game improvement irons that look like a shovel and the lofts have become so strong, you will have either large distance gaps or need to carry 6 wedges.
Was fit twice for irons in the spring, tried everything and both times it was the JPX 923 HM or HM HL. Both were good and just up to me what I preferred. I went with the HL because the lofts pretty much matched my old set, so didn't have to worry about gapping with the rest of my bag and don't think my swing will be getting faster.
Love the approach to this. Only suggestion I have for improvement would be to give some definitions for speed, quality of strike, launch. For example I think I have improved enough that my next set should be fitted and likely players distance. Sine I am a hobby golfer and in the 12 - 16 hip range my strikes are a bit inconsistent across clubs. But I now have the speed and decent mechanics for my strikes.
Frank , check out the latest videos from ASKGOLFNUT Best of 2024 irons in the Players Distance , Game improvement and Players irons, Jay covers all the things you just asked for.
Custom fit can save you a lot of time, money and angst. I’m still using the Tom Wishon clubs I was fitted for 10 years ago but I have added Accra graphite shafts (due to being 59) and popped in a couple of hybrids. So it’s blades, cavities and hybrids and with a being of stretching and Pilates (thoroughly recommended) I am still hitting my yardages. 😊
What a fully comprehensive summary-brilliant video. A nice Combi set would be ideal aesthetically for me, but how to tell from one 7 iron at a custom fitting - have faith in the fitter I suppose
Handy for anyone getting into golf or looking to improve their game. I switched from JPX921 combo of hot metal pro 5/6 iron and forged 7 onwards to the Ping i230 my games far more consistent since the switched. The I230 is underrated imo its feels great and the micro grooves have reduced fliers don't feel quite as soft as the forged iron but its barely noticeable. Although I was fitted for both the Mizuno were 1/4 inch longer and flat the Ping are std length and 1 upright blue dot id happily switch back to Mizuno any time but for time being ill keep the ping in the bag
Fumbled around for years trying to fit myself because I don't like hitting off mats. I think I've found some pretty good ideas and realized that most weekend duffers don't have any clue just like where I was. It's also important where you're coming from and what you want to improve. I played AP1s with Steelfiber 95R. They felt a little boardy and I wanted something slimmer so i went to AP2 with senior flex shafts. It was a disaster. A few sets later, I'm now playing Miura MC-102 with Steelfiber i80 stiff, soft stepped, +1", P-5. I can hit my 5 iron a beautiful high baby draw that stops within 3 ft.
Jay, this video arrived just at the perfect time for me! I’ve been working on my swing (work in progress, but finding some real form albeit a little conscious at the moment ). Had my best ball striking day by far as a result. 3 club wind today which will always test your game. I’m loving my JPX 921 tours (PW-7I) but don’t like the look of my JPX921 Forged, although I do hit them well. I’m going to go for a swing DNA tomorrow and my main focus will be what to replace those JPX forged irons with. I’m now beginning to think 223 (or next years 243s) might be the way to go. I was worried about losing distance as I age as I’m now in my 60s but I hit my 4iron 210y and held the green today among other good shots so I’m now less concerned as my ball striking improves. My Daughters had lessons yesterday with a new coach. He was blown away. It’s now clear that my youngest daughter needs to get out of the ladies clubs she’s been using. She’s too strong for them. I’ll send you her swing DNA results. When I get them as promised! Thanks again for this video. It’s really a great help for anyone looking to optimise their clubs to their swing. 👍👏 I would encourage anyone who loves golf and golf equipment to subscribe or even become a member based on the content you produce, it’s simply priceless and unparalleled.
Great vid … I think ego plays a big part as someone who used to hit the ball a long way wen younger, don’t b afraid to move into the correct clubs as you get older and ur body breaks down. Accept ur getting older and you may need a little help.
Jay I think you are spot on! I got fitted for 923 HM HL and refused, tried 923 HM and PXG Gen 5 XP. They were long but not great great grabbers! Sold and went back to the HL and low and behold can hold greens. Now I have to adjust as the 7 iron distance for me is now the 6 iron, but who cares. Added hybrids and went forgiving on the selection. In my later 60’s and will slower swing speed your advice hits the mark.
Great comment Mark, really glad to see that you've gained some control in the irons from just a quick change. Have you thought about inputting into the the Live Streams, you commetbs and questions are always welcome 👍🏻
Custom fitting was the best thing I did. I need the game improvement. Tried pretty much every brand of club in my range. Went in my mind which club I wanted but changed my mind after hitting them. The g430’s were right for me, hopefully picking them up this week
Really love your chart and explanations, thank you! It would be nice to also get an explanation of what you give up by going to game improvement, since don’t we all want more forgiveness, distance and height? Why wouldn’t everyone just get the game improvement irons?
If they don't swing fast at all the cranked lofts actually work against them whereas the HL versions give all the springy help of the heads but with max launch in mind. GI irons also can affect quality of strike. I've noticed my strike gets much worse when using Game Improvement irons so sometimes bigger isn't always better 🙂
My premium iron path has been something like - First - My dad's old blades! (he was a 6'4" 10 handicapper, with a swing like Nick Price) 1994 Callaway Big Bertha - stock set from a big shop. Loved them (really wanted the Phosphor bronze!), but found they hit too many really hot ones, and I got NO feedback as I wandered off sweet spot 1999 Mizuno Comp EZ - actually better consistency. First "fitted", always from there on in 2004 MP32. GREAT for short game, improved my ball striking. Long game sh*t. No-one had thought of blended sets then... Still regret selling these. 2009 MP62 - Interim set through injury - stopgap 2012 JPX-800 Pro - Well fitted, and recovered some game 2022 JPX 921 HM - Gave up some shot shaping ability in favour of consistency. Usually right, but once in a while..... Extra carry and stop chosen to fit my course, where high and straight usually better than low runners/wind shaping. And I can use 4i/5i again with these! Current distances are about 115 mid 9I 145 7i, with fairly even gapping from there.
Everyone loves a good history lesson as well as a good chart 😀 got a really interesting mix of iron types in there and also lofts, glad you have found yourself some consistency and enjoyment of the game 👍 tonight's live stream is somewhat on that note also........ 👍
Great video and you are right on many fronts. They are a plethora of choices and it can be overwhelming. Testing and fitting are critical as well as knowing your strengths and weaknesses. I’ve played for a while and have played with a lot of different players of different abilities. I’ve seen that there are a lot of ways someone can shoot a specific score to achieve establish their handicap. Some players are excellent iron players but terrible putters while some are excellent putters but terrible off the tee and so on and so forth. Furthermore, you be surprised how few full iron shots you hit during a round of golf. I discovered this using the data from my Arccos system. Often times it’s somewhere in the 11-14 range depending on the course. I’m not saying a good iron set isn’t important but you don’t hit as many full iron shots as you might think during a round of golf. Again, it’s critical to know your game in all aspects. Keep up the good work Jay 🙏🙏🙏
This is an excellent video, and really clarifies what the modern iron choices are. Years ago I played blades, but after my clubs were stolen, I gave up golf for 20 years. My brother gave me a set of his used clubs, which included Mizuno MP30 irons, and I started playing again. They seem fine, but now that I am once again beginning to have a decent swing, are they "right for me"? It seemed so complex, but this makes it easier. My swing speed is medium. My 7 iron goes about 135 yards, but flies much higher than most Seniors hit their pitching wedges. My strike quality is good most of the time, except when I hit it fat, or when I pick it thin and take no divot after the ball. An improvement iron might help with the latter, but not the former. If I understand your table, I should be playing player's cavity back clubs. That is apparently what the MP30 irons are, so it looks like I'm in good shape for now. When my swing gets a bit more refined, and I'm ready for new clubs because I want more bite on the greens, I'll get custom fit, and I expect that I will end up with a new set of cavity back clubs.
Great review Jay and thanks for taking all the time to show us your approach.. I like the Mizuno 225 for a all a round club next to my Hogan PTx Pro irons that I have been practicing with....More forginess on off center hits..Thanks Again....
hello Jay, greaat vid, currently i'm playing me MP53 and looking for new clubs, my 7 iron clubspeed is approx 80 mph ,launch mid high and my Hcp is 11 needs to go back to single :), age 58. question: is what to choose: T150 or T200 of 223 or 225 pro. please advise me. and reagrung driver what suites me beter TSR2 or Stealth 2?
I have yet to hit anything with more stopping power for me than the JPX 923 tours. Issue is my handicap is 21 lol so it scares me to play those irons. GIs and SGIs have such a low launch angle for me. Even for the same lofts, I cannot seem to get falls to launch higher with the GIs. Probably in my head.
Hello from Montreal, just got fitted for some Mizuno 225s. Will have to wait a few weeks. I’m changing them up from some forged JPX919. I think fitting is very important, not only the correct head but the proper shalt. Our season over here runs from May to late October. We used to go down to Florida for a few weeks in February but the our dollar is so low that it’s just too expensive. Thanks for all your great videos.
Hi David, shame that the season might be nearly over by the time you get the chance play them, still it does mean you'll be able to dial them in during the off season ready to come out all guns blazing 👍🏻
Thanks for the reply. I usually go for the fit in the winter (f… snow)but this year I went when I’d be playing quite a bit and have played so my swing was decent and current.@@AskGolfNut
Excellent video with good explanations. I've got Wilson D9 game improvement irons - 7i is my lowest loft (27°) then I have 2 hybrids, 2 f'way woods & 3 specialist wedges. With 5° spacing between the lofts on the Wilson irons, I'm waiting to see if that is too much as my swing speed slows over the next few years - but I'm very happy with how they go for the time being.
Hi Greg, seems a good spacing and even with the club head speed dropping over time, potentially the only thing you'll need to do is swap out the 27 degree 7 iron for another hybrid to increase launch conditions 👍🏻
All there to hopefully aid people in the correct buying choices or at very least their list to test choices. Unfortunately the story gets murky for left handers due to the lack of choice 😢👍🏻
Great vid! Just one thing, you mentioned that your swing speed of 90mph would be considered fast(ish). What would the other speeds be? F/M, M, M/L and Low? Cheers.
You talk about low, medium and high swing speeds (ball speed would be good to know too), would you be able to put a number on that? How about spin? Or off set?
Well intended chart; however, I believe that most amateurs, particularly high handicappers, don’t really know how to rate their club speed, launch angle / peak height unless the go to a club fitting pro, and if they go for one, then this chart becomes much less needed. Anyway, thank you!
Curious to know where Cobra King Oversized (from the 90’s) place in the list? Im a high handicapper, been using my clubs for ~10 years and have noticed recently my mates have newer game improvement irons that are way chunkier. I probably should upgrade/move to more suitable clubs, but don’t think I need to go all the way to the HL GI irons. But was thinking of something like the JPX 923 pros. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Have I been using players cavity/players distance irons when I should have been game improvement irons?
i am 82 yr.old swinging 6 iron at 58 mph. slow and weak. making a new commitment to playing again. at what point should i switch to hybrids or fairway woods? thx. Harley.
Hi, a very interesting video. I was fitted around 2018 when I had just got back into golf after a 20 year lay-off. I ended up with a set of cobra F8. The lofts were very different from my previous Titleist DCI’s. In 2018 I played off 23 (in a previous life I played off 11). My question is, I now play off 15 is it time to revisit my irons? and how will I find an independent fitter?
@askgolfnut what's the best one for a medium swing (85-90 7i) with a steep aoa (6+°) ? It's a tricky area, have the speed but delofting a 7 (33°)to basically a 5 I makes these selections tough! More bounce /COG or....more loft...🤔
This video is just what I was looking for. Turning 60 in a few months and struggle to hit my MP33’s as crisp as I used to, so I’ve switched to a more forgiving club with graphite shafts. Not knowing what I really wanted, and not wanting to waste a lot of $$$ figuring it out, I picked up a used set of JPX825’s in excellent shape off eBay for $250 to get a baseline. Loving the forgiveness with the turf interaction of the wider sole since the slightest degree of error with my blades was very costly. I hate the length of of the club head because it looks and feels like I’m swinging something Fred Flintsone would use, but then again, there’s no denying the forgiveness on off center strikes, but there in lies my dilemma. I feel my ball strikes on the face are less accurate than before because the club head is so big that I don’t really know where the head is, but still get good to decent results because of the forgiveness…frustrating & satisfying at the same time. The forgiveness I needed was more with turf interaction, so I’m looking for something with the wider sole I desire, but shorter blade length I prefer. I’ve been visiting the local golf shop checking out the various designs and have narrowed it down to the JPX923 Forged and I525, but didn’t to take a look at JPX HL’s. Most likely going with Mizuno because I’ve always liked their irons, and they don’t charge extra for shafts and grip upgrades. The main reason I’d like to throw the HL’s in the mix are for the more traditional lofts, but have concerns with blade length since I haven’t stood over them, and controlling height when I need to knock it down. Will go back to the shop to see if they have it in the fitting bay…I know it wasn’t displayed on the floor. Would really appreciate your feedback. Currently playing to a 9.8 handicap. Thanks for the great content!🤙🏽
@@2222skinny Actually hit these in the store too, and really liked them. However, the sole on the JPX Forged looked a little more forgiving and the Titleist will cost more than the Mizuno’s. I’m not one to buy irons as often as my friends, so I’m looking for the most forgiveness in a player’s type iron to last me until it’s time to switch to senior shafts, hence the wider sole on the JPX’s, but will go and double check things out side by side. Take Care 🤙🏽
Mentioned 90+ is fast swing speed in the chart but what range would you put Medium and Slow at. Someone between 80-84 (7i) would be a medium?? Can you specify a range of speed for each bracket (Slow/Med/Fast)? Also, could you talk a little more about blended sets? Would it make sense to get a 4/5/6 Hot Metal Pro plus a 7/8/9 Mizuno Pro 245 to try and get the best of both worlds. Really like the Pro245 but touch worried about forgiveness. Initially thought the forged would sit inbetween but now i think it gives me neither of the things i like (look/feel of the 245 and figiveness/distance of the HM Pro). Please help!!
I was fit into Cobra King Forged CB irons a few days ago. I started to second guess this almost immediately, expressed my concerns to my fitter, and scheduled a second fitting. Which I'm doing today. I'm a 16hc with 85mph 7i speed. Fitter said my old clubs, off the rack Sub70, don't fit me at all. And that I'm a much better ball striker than my hc indicated. In Cobras lineup, I think the King Tour is the more appropriate choice for my game. Also going to hit Mizuno Pro 245 and Titleist T100/150 again. Just want to be sure before I spend the money. Am I over thinking this or should I just trust the fitter?
Hello there Mr. S. Any chance you could get hold of the Wishon 585 PC forged. And try them out. It’s a “combo” set with bladed gap to 8 iron, and cavity back 7i - 4i. They look really good. Thank you 🙏.
Hey - I’m new to golf. Just picked up the sport 4 months ago. The clubs I have are 20+ years old (Ping knockoffs). My main focus is improving my ball striking consistency. My club head speed is 90+ with a 7I. I don’t have issues with peak height or launch angles. I’m able to hit my brother-in-laws JPX 923 Hot Metal Pro 7I 200+ plus yards. Wondering if I should continue to use the clubs I have now or go get fitted? If I should get fitted, what club head would be good for me?The JPX 923 are super addicting to hit.
This is just me, or perhaps there are others like me, but I always found that unless one has a physical handicap or limitation that there's very little reason to play game improvement clubs. Lessons and practice trump spending hundreds of dollars on a set of "game improvement" clubs that may then backfire as your game begins to improve and then you have to reset club set. Once one's technique improves, we start to see how clubs like "game improvement" blend distances that then provide some course management woes. I play APEX 19 MBs and am a mid-handicapper. I love how the clubs tell me when I'm playing poorly and feel like butter when I'm playing well. Guess I am a golf masochist! lol
You have some good points there. There are some differences, a blade wouldn't be able to compete with a GI iron in the face flexing game or even launch with the CG lower in the club, but forgiveness wise the blades absolutely hold their own relatively. Of course extreme strikes are better on GI irons and generally high handicappers use more extreme parts but in the long run may improve faster opting for a club choice that doesn't reward them from striking areas of the club that really shouldn't be used. Apex 19s with absolutely lovely and possibly one of my favourite blades from Callaway ever (if I remember they are the pure chrome ones 🤔), they feel like an old school Mizuno forging. Thanks for the comment and for watching 👍🏻
I went from MP18s (blades/SC mix) to JPX 923 Forged. Distance great but I don't feel i aim as good- did go from 120gm to 95gm shafts so maybe cos they are too light now? Or did I jump too much?
I’m a 5 handicap, iron play is not my strong suit. 80 mph with 7 iron. Not fast. I’m playing with 10 year old game improvement irons because I need the help and the loft. 33* 7 iron. I had a fitting this spring, and the fitter tried to put me into Players Distance irons. He didn’t see a problem with less than 40* descent angle and less than 4000 rpm of spin! But the Trackman said I was hitting them farther than my old irons!!
Yep you definitely will with those spin numbers 😊 it will be a fun time hitting a ball with a blade of grass between the ball and the face at less than 4000rpm baseline. On this basis alone I'd be walking out thanking him/her for their time but no thanks. Wow. Less than 40 degrees descent angle is ok but only if 1. You always play on very soft greens and 2. You don't mind having to guesstimate your flight window to bounce the ball prior to the controlled putting surface and roll up onto it (which is fraught with variables). At 5hcp you have a very good control over the other parts of your game but using the wrong irons can make your iron game harder to control and therefore gain hcp. Obviously yes this is my opinion, although I Coach and Custom Fit so I know that Coaching is an opinion, where Custom Fitting is a science so done properly 10 fitters should come up with a very similar answer as long as the right questions have been asked. Coaching you'll get 10 different opinions all leading to the end goal/target 👍🏻
Hi Jay - I've been playing the jpx hotmetal for 12 months, my ball striking is generally quite good, goes like stink - has created a problem with scoring irons, the question I have is - are these clubs making me look better than I am or should I upgrade to something like the 225 ? Lofts are still a bit strong though - I play off 10 Your input would be appreciated as when I ask in a pro-shop they just want to sell me some new shiny ones Best Regards Garry B in Manchester
I've been playing Titleist MBs for a couple of years and my 7-iron is my 165m (180yd) club. Basically have every club gapped at 10m intervals. I'm looking for a bit more forgiveness, but will keep the blades to torture myself with from time to time. Now, I love the look of the 225s and really do not like the look of the 223s. I guess my question is whether the 225s would be a good get for someone who can hit it far enough but wants to get more forgiveness and maybe even slow down his swing speed a touch.
I'd definitely look at retro specing the lofts and weaken them off as much as possible. It would increase the bounce a touch but Mizuno have a fairly low standard bounce anyway, and it would also lessen any offset and bring them into sensible zones of distance 👍🏻
I am a decent ball striker, but I am now 66 years old and my swing speed is low. I though Mizuno Hot Metal HL would be perfect for me, but then I discovered they have MASSIVE OFFSET. I simply cannot hit clubs with so much offset.
Hi. Is getting fitted practical or a waste of time/money if I’m still a high handicapper? At my age (55), I doubt it’s going down any time soon. Thanks.
Conversely to what people think getting 'properly' custom fit can make more difference as a high handicap less consistent golfer than a low handicap more consistent golfer. There are many reasons as to why this is true which would take too long to go through, maybe join in on a live stream and I can explain more in full 👍🏻
No not at all as hopefully everyone is always working on their delivery for the better, but is limitations exist from physical barriers such as age etc then very much so the table / chart relates 👍🏻
I started playing regularly (2X per week) at 53 and a 31 hdcp. Now at 58, I’ve just reached an 18 hdcp. If you’re somewhat fit and put the work in, you can improve even if you’re over 50. I’m still looking for improvement and hope to get to 15 or so over the next year.
Follow up question, my fitter put me into a GI irons (honestly didnt let me test anything else), Sim Max 2, stiff shaft due to my swing speed. Looking at this I'm feeling pretty silly. My striking ability is actually pretty solid too Which has me thinking I'm atleast Player Distance. :(
Possibly not even Players Distance as you won't need the Distance help due to your speed. I'd possibly say Players Cavity and a Players Distance blend into the Longer Irons, but without much more information it is difficult to properly suggest what would be best 👍
@@AskGolfNut love the reply man, thanks for the help. I agree I'm supplying very limited information! I think I'll head on over to a pro shop and get a new assessment
5 handicap and I play mizuno pro 225 I do like them and would maybe like to switch to the 221s I don’t like the look of the 223s but I don’t want to lose distance with the 221s and I do really like my 225s
Weaken the lofts by 2 degrees will also bring them more into line with the looks of the 221 offset wise, and still give you half a club advantage over the place 221s 👍🏻
@@AskGolfNut That is exactly what I did with the lofts on my 225s. My 7 is 32 degrees and my PW is 47 degrees which perfectly is in line with my gap at 51 degrees.... It was a great decision on my part with the help from you Jay ! Thanks as always for the great content !
Would you approach a blended set using the parameters you identified? What might be your strategy for someone on the line between players distance and game improvement?
Most probably due to many factors..... Definitely no higher than players cavity but players blade might be closer compared to modern day equivalents 👍🏻
You often discuss "traditional" blades and your appreciation of the size, look and sound of a nice forged blade. Similarly, you often speak about the stigma larger club heads, thick top lines, and cracking sounds carry. My question... why don't traditionalists also play persimmon woods and bullseye putters? Why do the "rules" apply only to irons?
Mainly due to the fact that there aren't any persimmon woods etc that are at modern day specifications. Most old school equipment isn't available new and also not in specific shaft needs. Also let's be honest, one shaft lengths and lofts decrease to the point that they do with woods etc, the strike pattern naturally varies more and so having modern day forgiveness tech within the modern club head benefits hugely over the old school tech. Much less so in the irons 👍🏻
No not at all it's mainly matching up your head requirements to your own in game needs. Handicap selection iron wise is at best dubious at worst it's miss selling. Every golfer has different skills and weaknesses within their game that creates their unique handicap. Always buy based on what the new club gives you against what you need, peak height, forgiveness etc 👍🏻
All players should. My longest iron is a 5 iron before I go into 4 and 3 Hybrid. In truth, the advantages that a hybrid gives can be quite profound for all golfers. Struggling for height and control with their long irons 👍🏻
Golfers just need to be realistic and truthful about their own game 😅 if you a high handicap player then stick with easy to use golf clubs option 🫣 until your hdcp dropped to low enough to be consistent with your strike then you might go fitting 😅😊
For the most part you are correct. Every golfer at all levels can advance their understanding of their game and their ways of improvement through correct fitting and allowing them to progress with the equipment that will work with their progression. Handicap is only a measure of ones additional score needed to net off to par. Their own particular strengths and weaknesses are individual so the normal marketed handicap option iron ranges should be taken with a big pinch of salt 👍🏻👍🏻 Thanks for the comment and for watching 👍🏻
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Was custom fit 3 years ago. In the long run it saved me money. Instead of purchasing a set off the shelf every year or two and hoping it would improve my game. I decided to visit an independent golf shop and try being fitted. Didn't care the brand or shaft. All I was looking for was back spin and decent angle to stop the ball where I wanted. They took a lot of time in looking at things we don't consider. Angle of attack, swing path, speed of the club head, lie angle and so on. Three years with my Wilson Staff blades and couldn't be happier! Do plan on going back now and letting them gap my clubs to get my distance more consistent. Biggest advice I can give anyone is to let the fitter do their job. If you hit Mizuno better than Wilson, then go with it or vice versa. If game improvement clubs work, then great. Same with shafts, lots of brands but fitting is key. You'll enjoy the game more in the long run.
nobody purchases a new set every year or two
According to one of the super main marketing brands, apparently 3-5 years is the most common time to renew irons.... Personally I think 5-10 is the closer range of years between iron renewals, as long as they've been fit correctly to start with of course 😉👍🏻
@@loopbaI’ve been through 3 sets in the last 2 years
@@loopba didn't mean new as off the shelf but as in different clubs. Being used or otherwise. Seen guys use a set of seconds a year and change. Then try that set. I was guilty of trying a different set every Year or two myself. Maybe even more.
Got my MP30 irons in 2003/4 and i would love some new mizuno's but with the prices as high as they are now i will probably play them until I can't play anymore. I'm Still using a Callaway stealhead lll 5 wood and that is definitely staying in the bag. Great club.
I just moved on from a set of 12 year old steel shaft irons and was fitted for the JPX 923 Hot Metal irons. As a senior my distance was really diminishing with the old irons. Since moving to the new irons I now hit each iron 15-20 yards farther and have lowered my handicap by 5!
I would say, if you want to get better you might want to play up a bit and grow into the irons that you eventually want to be in. If you are a GI player but you are really working on your game and wanting to lower your handicap, get players distance irons. It will train you to have better strikes. If you are a super casual player that plays just a few times a year, then by all means get some GI irons and have fun.
Excellent explanation of key concepts. I was custom fit this year at a “big box” golf store in Toronto. Did not receive no where near the expert advice provided by your video. Lesson learned. Thx for great video.
Thank you for taking the time to make this for us. You have quickly become one of my favorites for club reviews
Thanks very much for the kind feedback 👍🏻
Excellent video. I was in a lesson the other day and ranged between 84-86mph with my 7 iron. So so many sets traded between players and blades, but the overall summary was that I can use any head from blade to CB as long as it's the right shaft. For example, recently had a set of P7MC (2020) with KBS Tour. I see a set with quite expensive Oban shafts in them. Also 120g shafts, and I hate them. Stiffer handle and while my shot dispersion is tighter, I cannot stand the feel of them. Same head lol - Shafts are so important.
Great video Jay , just ordered some JPX 923 tours feel like a complete imposter playing off 18hcp but hit them so much better than all the hollow backs !!
Your charts have confirmed what I have thought for a long time. I have game improvement irons but very slow swing speed so I get no launch height. I believe I need to go with a HL iron!
Absolutely give them a try, I honestly feel they are the sector that all manufacturers will grow into over the next few years 👍🏻
Thanks for this info and the charts. Makes it much easier to get through the enormous amount of choices. Was custom fit into graphite shaft Mavrik a few years ago but have never got comfortable with the look of the heads. This info should help me with my next set. Thanks.
Always a great watch Jay, I think something can get overlooked when it comes to an iron fitting is the sole width and design.
Thanks as always for the content
I’m a plus one hdcp at 54 and tried to chase distance with strong lofted forgiving irons and I have found the thinner the sole the better I hit it so hitting t100 8 iron 140 is better and way more accurate than hitting t200 8 155 night and day diff for me
Wow, good for you and I agree with your thinking. I'm 75 and don't want to play game improvement irons that look like a shovel and the lofts have become so strong, you will have either large distance gaps or need to carry 6 wedges.
Was fit twice for irons in the spring, tried everything and both times it was the JPX 923 HM or HM HL. Both were good and just up to me what I preferred. I went with the HL because the lofts pretty much matched my old set, so didn't have to worry about gapping with the rest of my bag and don't think my swing will be getting faster.
Thanks for pointing me towards this 👍
Still clear as mud ....but the mud is a tad less cloggey
Love the approach to this. Only suggestion I have for improvement would be to give some definitions for speed, quality of strike, launch. For example I think I have improved enough that my next set should be fitted and likely players distance. Sine I am a hobby golfer and in the 12 - 16 hip range my strikes are a bit inconsistent across clubs. But I now have the speed and decent mechanics for my strikes.
Frank , check out the latest videos from ASKGOLFNUT Best of 2024 irons in the Players Distance , Game improvement and Players irons, Jay covers all the things you just asked for.
Great video/content as always mate. I was fitted to the JPX HM HL and couldn’t be happier.
Really glad you enjoyed the video and your new HL's 👍
Useful guidance, thanks!
Could you add some generalized numeric ranges as well? I.e. swing speed, ball speed, spin averages as upper/lower bounds
Custom fit can save you a lot of time, money and angst. I’m still using the Tom Wishon clubs I was fitted for 10 years ago but I have added Accra graphite shafts (due to being 59) and popped in a couple of hybrids. So it’s blades, cavities and hybrids and with a being of stretching and Pilates (thoroughly recommended) I am still hitting my yardages. 😊
What a fully comprehensive summary-brilliant video. A nice Combi set would be ideal aesthetically for me, but how to tell from one 7 iron at a custom fitting - have faith in the fitter I suppose
Handy for anyone getting into golf or looking to improve their game. I switched from JPX921 combo of hot metal pro 5/6 iron and forged 7 onwards to the Ping i230 my games far more consistent since the switched. The I230 is underrated imo its feels great and the micro grooves have reduced fliers don't feel quite as soft as the forged iron but its barely noticeable.
Although I was fitted for both the Mizuno were 1/4 inch longer and flat the Ping are std length and 1 upright blue dot id happily switch back to Mizuno any time but for time being ill keep the ping in the bag
Fumbled around for years trying to fit myself because I don't like hitting off mats. I think I've found some pretty good ideas and realized that most weekend duffers don't have any clue just like where I was.
It's also important where you're coming from and what you want to improve. I played AP1s with Steelfiber 95R. They felt a little boardy and I wanted something slimmer so i went to AP2 with senior flex shafts. It was a disaster. A few sets later, I'm now playing Miura MC-102 with Steelfiber i80 stiff, soft stepped, +1", P-5. I can hit my 5 iron a beautiful high baby draw that stops within 3 ft.
Great video, sir. Well explained with options for a lot of questions we all have with the glut of gold clubs now available.
Jay, this video arrived just at the perfect time for me!
I’ve been working on my swing (work in progress, but finding some real form albeit a little conscious at the moment ). Had my best ball striking day by far as a result. 3 club wind today which will always test your game.
I’m loving my JPX 921 tours (PW-7I) but don’t like the look of my JPX921 Forged, although I do hit them well. I’m going to go for a swing DNA tomorrow and my main focus will be what to replace those JPX forged irons with. I’m now beginning to think 223 (or next years 243s) might be the way to go.
I was worried about losing distance as I age as I’m now in my 60s but I hit my 4iron 210y and held the green today among other good shots so I’m now less concerned as my ball striking improves.
My Daughters had lessons yesterday with a new coach. He was blown away. It’s now clear that my youngest daughter needs to get out of the ladies clubs she’s been using. She’s too strong for them. I’ll send you her swing DNA results. When I get them as promised!
Thanks again for this video. It’s really a great help for anyone looking to optimise their clubs to their swing. 👍👏
I would encourage anyone who loves golf and golf equipment to subscribe or even become a member based on the content you produce, it’s simply priceless and unparalleled.
I'll be really interested in the data, and any launch monitor information you have to go with it 👍🏻 always happy to help if I can 👍🏻
Great vid … I think ego plays a big part as someone who used to hit the ball a long way wen younger, don’t b afraid to move into the correct clubs as you get older and ur body breaks down. Accept ur getting older and you may need a little help.
Jay I think you are spot on! I got fitted for 923 HM HL and refused, tried 923 HM and PXG Gen 5 XP. They were long but not great great grabbers! Sold and went back to the HL and low and behold can hold greens. Now I have to adjust as the 7 iron distance for me is now the 6 iron, but who cares. Added hybrids and went forgiving on the selection. In my later 60’s and will slower swing speed your advice hits the mark.
Great comment Mark, really glad to see that you've gained some control in the irons from just a quick change. Have you thought about inputting into the the Live Streams, you commetbs and questions are always welcome 👍🏻
This was SO incredibly helpful! Thank you!
Custom fitting was the best thing I did. I need the game improvement. Tried pretty much every brand of club in my range. Went in my mind which club I wanted but changed my mind after hitting them. The g430’s were right for me, hopefully picking them up this week
Really love your chart and explanations, thank you! It would be nice to also get an explanation of what you give up by going to game improvement, since don’t we all want more forgiveness, distance and height? Why wouldn’t everyone just get the game improvement irons?
If they don't swing fast at all the cranked lofts actually work against them whereas the HL versions give all the springy help of the heads but with max launch in mind.
GI irons also can affect quality of strike. I've noticed my strike gets much worse when using Game Improvement irons so sometimes bigger isn't always better 🙂
My premium iron path has been something like -
First - My dad's old blades! (he was a 6'4" 10 handicapper, with a swing like Nick Price)
1994 Callaway Big Bertha - stock set from a big shop. Loved them (really wanted the Phosphor bronze!), but found they hit too many really hot ones, and I got NO feedback as I wandered off sweet spot
1999 Mizuno Comp EZ - actually better consistency. First "fitted", always from there on in
2004 MP32. GREAT for short game, improved my ball striking. Long game sh*t. No-one had thought of blended sets then... Still regret selling these.
2009 MP62 - Interim set through injury - stopgap
2012 JPX-800 Pro - Well fitted, and recovered some game
2022 JPX 921 HM - Gave up some shot shaping ability in favour of consistency. Usually right, but once in a while..... Extra carry and stop chosen to fit my course, where high and straight usually better than low runners/wind shaping. And I can use 4i/5i again with these!
Current distances are about 115 mid 9I 145 7i, with fairly even gapping from there.
Everyone loves a good history lesson as well as a good chart 😀 got a really interesting mix of iron types in there and also lofts, glad you have found yourself some consistency and enjoyment of the game 👍 tonight's live stream is somewhat on that note also........ 👍
Great video and you are right on many fronts. They are a plethora of choices and it can be overwhelming. Testing and fitting are critical as well as knowing your strengths and weaknesses. I’ve played for a while and have played with a lot of different players of different abilities. I’ve seen that there are a lot of ways someone can shoot a specific score to achieve establish their handicap. Some players are excellent iron players but terrible putters while some are excellent putters but terrible off the tee and so on and so forth.
Furthermore, you be surprised how few full iron shots you hit during a round of golf. I discovered this using the data from my Arccos system. Often times it’s somewhere in the 11-14 range depending on the course. I’m not saying a good iron set isn’t important but you don’t hit as many full iron shots as you might think during a round of golf. Again, it’s critical to know your game in all aspects. Keep up the good work Jay 🙏🙏🙏
This is an excellent video, and really clarifies what the modern iron choices are. Years ago I played blades, but after my clubs were stolen, I gave up golf for 20 years. My brother gave me a set of his used clubs, which included Mizuno MP30 irons, and I started playing again. They seem fine, but now that I am once again beginning to have a decent swing, are they "right for me"? It seemed so complex, but this makes it easier.
My swing speed is medium. My 7 iron goes about 135 yards, but flies much higher than most Seniors hit their pitching wedges. My strike quality is good most of the time, except when I hit it fat, or when I pick it thin and take no divot after the ball. An improvement iron might help with the latter, but not the former.
If I understand your table, I should be playing player's cavity back clubs. That is apparently what the MP30 irons are, so it looks like I'm in good shape for now. When my swing gets a bit more refined, and I'm ready for new clubs because I want more bite on the greens, I'll get custom fit, and I expect that I will end up with a new set of cavity back clubs.
Great review Jay and thanks for taking all the time to show us your approach.. I like the Mizuno 225 for a all a round club next to my Hogan PTx Pro irons that I have been practicing with....More forginess on off center hits..Thanks Again....
You're very welcome and thank you for your kind feedback 👍🏻
hello Jay, greaat vid, currently i'm playing me MP53 and looking for new clubs, my 7 iron clubspeed is approx 80 mph ,launch mid high and my Hcp is 11 needs to go back to single :), age 58. question: is what to choose: T150 or T200 of 223 or 225 pro. please advise me. and reagrung driver what suites me beter TSR2 or Stealth 2?
I have yet to hit anything with more stopping power for me than the JPX 923 tours. Issue is my handicap is 21 lol so it scares me to play those irons. GIs and SGIs have such a low launch angle for me. Even for the same lofts, I cannot seem to get falls to launch higher with the GIs. Probably in my head.
Really helpful Video! Loved the chart!
Hello from Montreal, just got fitted for some Mizuno 225s. Will have to wait a few weeks.
I’m changing them up from some forged JPX919. I think fitting is very important, not only the correct head but the proper shalt. Our season over here runs from May to late October. We used to go down to Florida for a few weeks in February but the our dollar is so low that it’s just too expensive. Thanks for all your great videos.
Hi David, shame that the season might be nearly over by the time you get the chance play them, still it does mean you'll be able to dial them in during the off season ready to come out all guns blazing 👍🏻
Thanks for the reply.
I usually go for the fit in the winter (f… snow)but this year I went when I’d be playing quite a bit and have played so my swing was decent and current.@@AskGolfNut
Excellent video with good explanations. I've got Wilson D9 game improvement irons - 7i is my lowest loft (27°) then I have 2 hybrids, 2 f'way woods & 3 specialist wedges. With 5° spacing between the lofts on the Wilson irons, I'm waiting to see if that is too much as my swing speed slows over the next few years - but I'm very happy with how they go for the time being.
Hi Greg, seems a good spacing and even with the club head speed dropping over time, potentially the only thing you'll need to do is swap out the 27 degree 7 iron for another hybrid to increase launch conditions 👍🏻
Excellent video Jay. Very comprehensive explanation
All there to hopefully aid people in the correct buying choices or at very least their list to test choices. Unfortunately the story gets murky for left handers due to the lack of choice 😢👍🏻
Great vid! Just one thing, you mentioned that your swing speed of 90mph would be considered fast(ish). What would the other speeds be? F/M, M, M/L and Low? Cheers.
You talk about low, medium and high swing speeds (ball speed would be good to know too), would you be able to put a number on that? How about spin? Or off set?
Well intended chart; however, I believe that most amateurs, particularly high handicappers, don’t really know how to rate their club speed, launch angle / peak height unless the go to a club fitting pro, and if they go for one, then this chart becomes much less needed. Anyway, thank you!
Curious to know where Cobra King Oversized (from the 90’s) place in the list? Im a high handicapper, been using my clubs for ~10 years and have noticed recently my mates have newer game improvement irons that are way chunkier.
I probably should upgrade/move to more suitable clubs, but don’t think I need to go all the way to the HL GI irons. But was thinking of something like the JPX 923 pros.
Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Have I been using players cavity/players distance irons when I should have been game improvement irons?
i am 82 yr.old swinging 6 iron at 58 mph. slow and weak. making a new commitment to playing again. at what point should i switch to hybrids or fairway woods? thx. Harley.
Hi, a very interesting video. I was fitted around 2018 when I had just got back into golf after a 20 year lay-off. I ended up with a set of cobra F8. The lofts were very different from my previous Titleist DCI’s. In 2018 I played off 23 (in a previous life I played off 11). My question is, I now play off 15 is it time to revisit my irons? and how will I find an independent fitter?
@askgolfnut what's the best one for a medium swing (85-90 7i) with a steep aoa (6+°) ? It's a tricky area, have the speed but delofting a 7 (33°)to basically a 5 I makes these selections tough! More bounce /COG or....more loft...🤔
This video is just what I was looking for. Turning 60 in a few months and struggle to hit my MP33’s as crisp as I used to, so I’ve switched to a more forgiving club with graphite shafts. Not knowing what I really wanted, and not wanting to waste a lot of $$$ figuring it out, I picked up a used set of JPX825’s in excellent shape off eBay for $250 to get a baseline. Loving the forgiveness with the turf interaction of the wider sole since the slightest degree of error with my blades was very costly. I hate the length of of the club head because it looks and feels like I’m swinging something Fred Flintsone would use, but then again, there’s no denying the forgiveness on off center strikes, but there in lies my dilemma. I feel my ball strikes on the face are less accurate than before because the club head is so big that I don’t really know where the head is, but still get good to decent results because of the forgiveness…frustrating & satisfying at the same time. The forgiveness I needed was more with turf interaction, so I’m looking for something with the wider sole I desire, but shorter blade length I prefer. I’ve been visiting the local golf shop checking out the various designs and have narrowed it down to the JPX923 Forged and I525, but didn’t to take a look at JPX HL’s. Most likely going with Mizuno because I’ve always liked their irons, and they don’t charge extra for shafts and grip upgrades. The main reason I’d like to throw the HL’s in the mix are for the more traditional lofts, but have concerns with blade length since I haven’t stood over them, and controlling height when I need to knock it down. Will go back to the shop to see if they have it in the fitting bay…I know it wasn’t displayed on the floor. Would really appreciate your feedback. Currently playing to a 9.8 handicap. Thanks for the great content!🤙🏽
I experienced the same thing at 54 I went for the t150 and can not be happier
@@2222skinny Actually hit these in the store too, and really liked them. However, the sole on the JPX Forged looked a little more forgiving and the Titleist will cost more than the Mizuno’s. I’m not one to buy irons as often as my friends, so I’m looking for the most forgiveness in a player’s type iron to last me until it’s time to switch to senior shafts, hence the wider sole on the JPX’s, but will go and double check things out side by side. Take Care 🤙🏽
Mentioned 90+ is fast swing speed in the chart but what range would you put Medium and Slow at. Someone between 80-84 (7i) would be a medium?? Can you specify a range of speed for each bracket (Slow/Med/Fast)? Also, could you talk a little more about blended sets? Would it make sense to get a 4/5/6 Hot Metal Pro plus a 7/8/9 Mizuno Pro 245 to try and get the best of both worlds. Really like the Pro245 but touch worried about forgiveness. Initially thought the forged would sit inbetween but now i think it gives me neither of the things i like (look/feel of the 245 and figiveness/distance of the HM Pro). Please help!!
I was fit into Cobra King Forged CB irons a few days ago. I started to second guess this almost immediately, expressed my concerns to my fitter, and scheduled a second fitting. Which I'm doing today. I'm a 16hc with 85mph 7i speed. Fitter said my old clubs, off the rack Sub70, don't fit me at all. And that I'm a much better ball striker than my hc indicated. In Cobras lineup, I think the King Tour is the more appropriate choice for my game. Also going to hit Mizuno Pro 245 and Titleist T100/150 again. Just want to be sure before I spend the money. Am I over thinking this or should I just trust the fitter?
Would be very happy to help, reach me on Instagram for a better conversation 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Hello there Mr. S. Any chance you could get hold of the Wishon 585 PC forged. And try them out. It’s a “combo” set with bladed gap to 8 iron, and cavity back 7i - 4i. They look really good. Thank you 🙏.
Hey - I’m new to golf. Just picked up the sport 4 months ago. The clubs I have are 20+ years old (Ping knockoffs). My main focus is improving my ball striking consistency. My club head speed is 90+ with a 7I. I don’t have issues with peak height or launch angles. I’m able to hit my brother-in-laws JPX 923 Hot Metal Pro 7I 200+ plus yards.
Wondering if I should continue to use the clubs I have now or go get fitted? If I should get fitted, what club head would be good for me?The JPX 923 are super addicting to hit.
Get fitted
Very nice. Where would you put the i230s ?
This is just me, or perhaps there are others like me, but I always found that unless one has a physical handicap or limitation that there's very little reason to play game improvement clubs. Lessons and practice trump spending hundreds of dollars on a set of "game improvement" clubs that may then backfire as your game begins to improve and then you have to reset club set. Once one's technique improves, we start to see how clubs like "game improvement" blend distances that then provide some course management woes. I play APEX 19 MBs and am a mid-handicapper. I love how the clubs tell me when I'm playing poorly and feel like butter when I'm playing well. Guess I am a golf masochist! lol
You have some good points there. There are some differences, a blade wouldn't be able to compete with a GI iron in the face flexing game or even launch with the CG lower in the club, but forgiveness wise the blades absolutely hold their own relatively. Of course extreme strikes are better on GI irons and generally high handicappers use more extreme parts but in the long run may improve faster opting for a club choice that doesn't reward them from striking areas of the club that really shouldn't be used.
Apex 19s with absolutely lovely and possibly one of my favourite blades from Callaway ever (if I remember they are the pure chrome ones 🤔), they feel like an old school Mizuno forging.
Thanks for the comment and for watching 👍🏻
I went from MP18s (blades/SC mix) to JPX 923 Forged. Distance great but I don't feel i aim as good- did go from 120gm to 95gm shafts so maybe cos they are too light now? Or did I jump too much?
I’m a 5 handicap, iron play is not my strong suit. 80 mph with 7 iron. Not fast. I’m playing with 10 year old game improvement irons because I need the help and the loft. 33* 7 iron. I had a fitting this spring, and the fitter tried to put me into Players Distance irons. He didn’t see a problem with less than 40* descent angle and less than 4000 rpm of spin! But the Trackman said I was hitting them farther than my old irons!!
Yep you definitely will with those spin numbers 😊 it will be a fun time hitting a ball with a blade of grass between the ball and the face at less than 4000rpm baseline. On this basis alone I'd be walking out thanking him/her for their time but no thanks. Wow.
Less than 40 degrees descent angle is ok but only if 1. You always play on very soft greens and 2. You don't mind having to guesstimate your flight window to bounce the ball prior to the controlled putting surface and roll up onto it (which is fraught with variables).
At 5hcp you have a very good control over the other parts of your game but using the wrong irons can make your iron game harder to control and therefore gain hcp. Obviously yes this is my opinion, although I Coach and Custom Fit so I know that Coaching is an opinion, where Custom Fitting is a science so done properly 10 fitters should come up with a very similar answer as long as the right questions have been asked. Coaching you'll get 10 different opinions all leading to the end goal/target 👍🏻
Hi Jay - I've been playing the jpx hotmetal for 12 months, my ball striking is generally quite good, goes like stink - has created a problem with scoring irons, the question I have is - are these clubs making me look better than I am or should I upgrade to something like the 225 ? Lofts are still a bit strong though - I play off 10
Your input would be appreciated as when I ask in a pro-shop they just want to sell me some new shiny ones
Best Regards
Garry B in Manchester
Hi Garry from Manchester, if you reach out to me on Instagram it will be much easier to communicate as it's a bit more of a complex answer 👍🏻👍🏻
Very informative thank you
I've been playing Titleist MBs for a couple of years and my 7-iron is my 165m (180yd) club. Basically have every club gapped at 10m intervals. I'm looking for a bit more forgiveness, but will keep the blades to torture myself with from time to time. Now, I love the look of the 225s and really do not like the look of the 223s. I guess my question is whether the 225s would be a good get for someone who can hit it far enough but wants to get more forgiveness and maybe even slow down his swing speed a touch.
I'd definitely look at retro specing the lofts and weaken them off as much as possible. It would increase the bounce a touch but Mizuno have a fairly low standard bounce anyway, and it would also lessen any offset and bring them into sensible zones of distance 👍🏻
Which would you chose between mizuno 245 and srixon zx4? Any comments from anybody
I am a decent ball striker, but I am now 66 years old and my swing speed is low. I though Mizuno Hot Metal HL would be perfect for me, but then I discovered they have MASSIVE OFFSET. I simply cannot hit clubs with so much offset.
Very Helpful!!
Im glad you found it useful 👍
can you do a comparison between ping i500 and jpx921
921 forged
Hi. Is getting fitted practical or a waste of time/money if I’m still a high handicapper? At my age (55), I doubt it’s going down any time soon. Thanks.
Conversely to what people think getting 'properly' custom fit can make more difference as a high handicap less consistent golfer than a low handicap more consistent golfer. There are many reasons as to why this is true which would take too long to go through, maybe join in on a live stream and I can explain more in full 👍🏻
Doesn’t that assume that a high handicapper is not working on their swing?
No not at all as hopefully everyone is always working on their delivery for the better, but is limitations exist from physical barriers such as age etc then very much so the table / chart relates 👍🏻
I started playing regularly (2X per week) at 53 and a 31 hdcp. Now at 58, I’ve just reached an 18 hdcp. If you’re somewhat fit and put the work in, you can improve even if you’re over 50. I’m still looking for improvement and hope to get to 15 or so over the next year.
@rdadams7507 good luck with the handicap reduction 👍🏻
Good presentation
Glad you got something from the video 👍🏻
What do you consider a fast swing speed? I was getting 143 ball speed off a 3 wood, regular shaft.
Follow up question, my fitter put me into a GI irons (honestly didnt let me test anything else), Sim Max 2, stiff shaft due to my swing speed. Looking at this I'm feeling pretty silly. My striking ability is actually pretty solid too Which has me thinking I'm atleast Player Distance. :(
Possibly not even Players Distance as you won't need the Distance help due to your speed. I'd possibly say Players Cavity and a Players Distance blend into the Longer Irons, but without much more information it is difficult to properly suggest what would be best 👍
@@AskGolfNut love the reply man, thanks for the help. I agree I'm supplying very limited information! I think I'll head on over to a pro shop and get a new assessment
@ellisnelson8242 let me know the results, happy to help if I can 👍🏻
5 handicap and I play mizuno pro 225 I do like them and would maybe like to switch to the 221s I don’t like the look of the 223s but I don’t want to lose distance with the 221s and I do really like my 225s
Weaken the lofts by 2 degrees will also bring them more into line with the looks of the 221 offset wise, and still give you half a club advantage over the place 221s 👍🏻
@@AskGolfNut That is exactly what I did with the lofts on my 225s. My 7 is 32 degrees and my PW is 47 degrees which perfectly is in line with my gap at 51 degrees.... It was a great decision on my part with the help from you Jay ! Thanks as always for the great content !
@deanbowditch7329 really glad you enjoyed the content and managed to get the specs spot on for your gaming needs, always happy to help 👍🏻
Would you approach a blended set using the parameters you identified? What might be your strategy for someone on the line between players distance and game improvement?
Mizuno pro 245 September 15th 2023 any update on UK dates?
Release in the UK won't be until very early 2024 (Jan/Feb), we should start to see them though about a month after Japan 👍🏻
what happened with the preview image, I need it
Great chart thanks
Everyone always loves s good chart 😊 and I made it myself in excel 😂 well done me 🤣🤣
Fantastic video.
Thank you very much! 👍🏻👍🏻
jpx 921 Tour is a players cavity?
I'm stretching that..... Its a blade cavity 😊😊 not sure that's even a category 😊👍🏻
@@AskGolfNut I replaced my Nike pro combo set with them and love them
where would ping eye 2 irons fall on this chart, thinking inbetween blade and cavity ? .
Most probably due to many factors..... Definitely no higher than players cavity but players blade might be closer compared to modern day equivalents 👍🏻
thanks for the reply , @@AskGolfNut
Very well done.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed the video 👍🏻
You often discuss "traditional" blades and your appreciation of the size, look and sound of a nice forged blade. Similarly, you often speak about the stigma larger club heads, thick top lines, and cracking sounds carry. My question... why don't traditionalists also play persimmon woods and bullseye putters? Why do the "rules" apply only to irons?
Mainly due to the fact that there aren't any persimmon woods etc that are at modern day specifications. Most old school equipment isn't available new and also not in specific shaft needs.
Also let's be honest, one shaft lengths and lofts decrease to the point that they do with woods etc, the strike pattern naturally varies more and so having modern day forgiveness tech within the modern club head benefits hugely over the old school tech. Much less so in the irons 👍🏻
Thanks for the reply.
Does that mean a mid hcp player using mid-hcp irons (Forged), cannot shoot single digits?
They must use the tour or blades instead?
No not at all it's mainly matching up your head requirements to your own in game needs. Handicap selection iron wise is at best dubious at worst it's miss selling. Every golfer has different skills and weaknesses within their game that creates their unique handicap. Always buy based on what the new club gives you against what you need, peak height, forgiveness etc 👍🏻
15+ handicappers should investigate hybrids.
All players should. My longest iron is a 5 iron before I go into 4 and 3 Hybrid. In truth, the advantages that a hybrid gives can be quite profound for all golfers. Struggling for height and control with their long irons 👍🏻
Excellet
It doesn't matter what clubs you use if you do not have a swing
Very true and we all have varying swings at varying speeds, delivering various angles hence the choice which is available in today's market 👍🏻👍🏻
Thomas William Robinson Helen Robinson Mary
A B C D E F...... Should I continue??? 🤷🤷🤷
Over complicated it
Thanks for the input 😊
Golfers just need to be realistic and truthful about their own game 😅 if you a high handicap player then stick with easy to use golf clubs option 🫣 until your hdcp dropped to low enough to be consistent with your strike then you might go fitting 😅😊
For the most part you are correct. Every golfer at all levels can advance their understanding of their game and their ways of improvement through correct fitting and allowing them to progress with the equipment that will work with their progression. Handicap is only a measure of ones additional score needed to net off to par. Their own particular strengths and weaknesses are individual so the normal marketed handicap option iron ranges should be taken with a big pinch of salt 👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks for the comment and for watching 👍🏻