Callaway launched in August the new Apex Pro irons, Apex CB irons, and Apex Mb irons. More experienced golfers couldn’t wait to test them.
The Apex Pro is a compact head with a reduced offset, thinner topline and tons of technology. Callaway has updated the Apex CB to include a new sole for improved turf interaction and shot consistency. The Apex CB is a blade designed for elite players looking for precision in distance control and shot shape.
Callaway is aware that some golfers prefer to combine clubs from various sets to maximize their performance. I was therefore very interested to see how they combined the three irons in the Apex Triple Play Iron Set.
Callaway Apex Pro Long Irons (4, 5, 6)
The new Apex Pro Irons have a compact and reduced-offset shape. Callaway chose a size that isn’t too small to make you feel intimidated. The irons are slightly bigger than the CB or MB, which gives you a bit more confidence. You don’t have to hit it dead-center to get a good result.
The Pros are constructed with a multi-material design to increase distance and forgiveness, while the forged body and face give you a soft feel and control distance. Urethane Microspheres also dampen vibrations and give the Pro Irons a solid and soft feel. The GolfWRXer inside me would have liked the Pro to be a little less offset. However, I love the overall shape of the Pro and the more rounded look.
The 4, 5, and 6 irons are easy to use and offer a bit more power for longer shots. Even on mishits the feel is soft and muted. The turf interaction of the Dynamic sole design prevents digging when the conditions are soft. The 4-iron can be used to hit the ball far and high on par 4s or long par 3s.
All of the Pro Irons are more forgiving than you would expect. I miss a lot off the toe, but those shots still carry. You can carry the bunker or the ball up to the front green even if you miss.
Apex CB Mid Irons (7.8, 9.9)
They are my favorite iron set in terms of shape and size. The Apex CB irons combine some of the roundness and compact size from the Apex Pro, with a little bit more sharpness in the toe. The Apex CB has very little offset and the transition between hosel and leading edge is well done and without too many curves.
Dynamic Sole has a narrower sole, but the angles are clearly visible. Pre-worn leading-edge and trailing edge relief are more noticeable and perform very well. In Michigan, you don’t often find a fast and firm fairway. The turf interaction in these conditions is more noticeable. The CB is similar to the Apex Pro in that it wants to get into the turf quickly and shallow out.
The impact of solidly struck shots is a “thud”. These irons are comparable to other popular CBs when it comes down to feeling. The clickier the sound and vibration will be if you hit your shots thinly or off-toe.
The Apex CB Irons have excellent distance control. The distance and height of well-hit shots are always the same. Although the launch is slightly lower than that of the Apex Pro, you can still elevate these irons off the tee or turf. The irons spin more, as shots have a slight curvature. You can see the shot rise a little bit into the wind. When you miss the middle of the face there is a slight drop in the carry, but the ball still stays online.
Callaway has added MIM weights to the toe of the irons. They seem to have improved the forgiveness, as well as the balance. The CB is a great iron for skilled players. You can use it to hit shots high, low, right, left or in any combination.
Apex Short Irons (10 and 11)
It’s cool to have irons that are marked with “10” or “11”. This little difference is always a hit with other golfers. These Apex irons have the most distinct look in my opinion. These irons have the most edgy look, with their sharper toes and straight leading edges. The me lacks softness and roundness, but they still blend well with the rest of the set.
The only wedges I have are the gap wedge and the pitching wedge. That’s about it. The MB wedges will grab your attention because they are the least forgiving of the set. Well-placed shots reward you with a soft, solid “thud”, but off-center shots are a bit harsher on your hands and ears. You will notice a dramatic drop in distance when I miss. The Apex Pro can get you to the green while the MB will keep you off the green depending on your miss.
They do have a low ball flight, but they also carry a lot more spin to the green. With confidence, you can fire at pins that are close together with the knowledge that the ball will land near the landing area due to the spin and trajectory. Since they are MBs you can easily fire those shots in any direction you like.
The turf interaction is great, but this will get the most from the set. Even with a deeper divot the irons still get through the grass very quickly.
This set has a gap wedge that matches the set. It’s the consistency of full or near-full shots. You don’t get that with a sand-wedge-style head. These full shots feel like you’re hitting a smaller pitching wedge. You can still use the “11-iron” around the green and hit small chip and pitch shots with lots of spin even with an opened face.
Callaway’s Triple Play is a great option for golfers who want to improve their long irons, but also have consistency with their scoring clubs. The set is balanced by adding distance, forgiveness, and feel in equal amounts. Callaway’s Apex Pro Series combination sets are worth trying if you have a low handicap and want a player look at address, but need a little assistance.
