In our forums, one user is plotting a return to the game and is looking for recommendations regarding the best iron sets from the past 10 years. The user is a former low-handicapper and is hoping to find a new set.
@bensteeley wrote:
“I’m getting back into golf after about four years away due to injuries. I used to play between a 1 and 3 and played pretty much every day, but I’m basically starting over equipment-wise because the Srixons I got while working as a club pro were stolen a while back.
“I’m not ready to go through a full fitting yet. I just want to buy a solid used set, start playing again, and see where my game is before spending serious money. I play standard length and lie, so that makes buying off the rack pretty easy.
“Over the years I’ve played:
712 AP1s
714 AP2s
714 MB/CB combo
Mizuno MP-69/MP4 combo
Srixon Z 785s
“My numbers aren’t quite where they were when I played every day, but they’re not far off at all according to a recent trackman session. I’ve still got no trouble getting the ball in the air, and excessive spin has never really been an issue.
“Right now I’m leaning toward a set of 718 AP2s that I can get for around $500, but I’m open to other recommendations. I don’t really want to go back to full blades right now, and I still have an old set of those anyway. At the same time, I’m not looking for anything overly chunky.
“What would everyone recommend from the better players iron sets released over the last 10 years? I’d like to stay under $600, but age doesn’t matter to me at all. I’m perfectly fine playing something that’s nine or 10 years old.”
Users hopped in with their own thoughts on @bensteeley’s approach to getting new irons, in addition to offering their own recommendations. Here are a few posts from the thread, but make sure to check out the entire discussion and have your say at the link below.
- @JakeBarnes: “I was in in your boat and went Mizuno Pro 243 for a little more forgiveness and tech in the longer irons. I’d definitely check out the Srixon Zxi7 and Zxi5 as well. The 5 is nice for the 4 and 5i, with the 7 in the scoring clubs. Honestly, lots of great developments in irons and drivers lately. Hard to go wrong.”
- @CountryClubChef: “Came back last fall after 12 years off. As a former scratch golfer playing blades I settled on Cobra King Tours and have been enjoying them, will probably be switching out of them for 3DPs in a few months but no complaints about the clubs. They’re on sale right now too.”
- @stratgolf: “Get fit, or at worst, try stuff at brand showcases to get a feel for things. The more you hit, the more you’ll find out what you like again, and can work out your new numbers.”
- @drvrwedge: “I’d go back to z785. I think you’ll find most people will agree iron tech hasn’t changed that much in 10 years. Plenty of scratch golfers in my area still play decade old irons and a lot play z785’s. I also think most people regard them as the best of the entire series, new or old. iBlade would be another along with i200 or i210. You might be able to find a set of the first gen T100’s as well or maybe some Wilson Tour V4 or V6’s. Plenty of options out there. Could also combo z585/z785.”
Entire thread: “Best iron sets from the last 10 years for a former low-handicap player coming back?”
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