Cutting-edge irons

Golf Digest, April, 2001

Thanks to sophisticated computer-design programs and advances in materials, clubmakers are creating irons that take "game-improvement" features to a new level. Cavity backs are bigger and deeper than ever, as designers shift precious grams to maximize the benefits of perimeter weighting. They're also using exotic materials, mostly to lower the center of gravity. For average players, that means irons get the ball airborne more easily; for better players, it means more control. Plus, these new materials look pretty cool.

The blade companion to Titleist's DCI 990 irons, the new 990Bs ($880, set of eight) are designed for stronger players seeking more workability. The soles are narrower and flatter: The idea is to make the club "faster" through the turf. By custom order. Go to www.titleist. com or phone 888-324-4766.

Yonex's V-Mass 350 irons ($1,280, set of eight) have stainless-steel heads, titanium face inserts and tungsten plugs. The graphite shaft is a Ti-nickel fusion, which Yonex says leads to greater energy transfer. Phone 800-44-YONEX or go to www.yonex.com.

The JN Series wedges ($100) from Nicklaus Golf feature CNC-milled clubfaces with "U/V" scorelines. The result, says Jack, is improved ball control, with grooves that grab better than the traditional V-shaped lines. Shown here is the 52-degree Gapwedge. Phone 800-322-1872 or visit www.nicklaus-golf.com.

In its TransSteel oversize irons ($299, set of eight with steel shafts; $399 with graphite), Pro Select uses tungsten-copper inserts to lower the center of gravity; a deep cavity adds forgiveness. Phone 800-224-6532 or visit www.proselectsports.com.

Team Daiwa's Hi-Trac Plus irons ($599, set of eight, graphite shafts) are oversize cavity backs made of Triple Phase stainless steel. The company says it's harder and lighter than other alloys, for increased perimeter weighting. Phone 800-272-4325.

Cobra has added 26- and 28-degree models ($250) to its women's and senior's lines of Baffler Multi-Metal ironwoods. Features include a 49-gram graphite shaft, plus weights in the back and sole to help get the ball airborne. Phone 800-223-3537 or visit www.cobragolf.com.

Also look for: Scoring Set irons from Orlimar (877-ORLIMAR, www.orlimar.com); Callaway's X-14 Pro Series (www.callaway golf.com); TaylorMade's 300 Series irons (800-888-CLUB, www.taylormadegolf.com); Millennium Golf's forged blades (877-615-3850, www.mgolf.com).