Over the last couple of weeks I have been sharing a variety of press releases from Miura Golf. Mary Beth Lacy of golf public relations firm Mary Beth Lacy Inc has been kind enough to share this information with me. Thus far I have talked about the Passing Point Neo Genesis irons which I have made swings with already this year. In January, I saw and felt first hand the new Hayate driver and metalwoods and they are more stunning than pictures give them credit for. Most recently, I divulged information about a forged Miura iron for golfers of all skill levels… the CB-2008.
Yesterday marked a big day for the newest reincarnation of the Miura Golf brand. On June 20th Miura Golf launched its MG Collection (Miura Giken) in North America. It’s the day before the Summer Solstice and with this release it will mark a slightly “hotter” golf season in North America. I first heard of the Miura Giken irons several years ago but it was in February at the Niagara Golf Show where I talked to Brian Morrissey of Power Golf who happens to be a dealer of many upscale brands such as Miura. He told me to keep my eyes open because what Miura Golf was bringing to market over here was eyebrow-raising.
With this most recent press release Miura has announced the rest of the exotic line that has just been launched. There is an old adage which is “save the best for last” and this just might be the case. With the launch of the CB-1008 and MB-5005 Miura Golf has introduced two new exquisite player’s irons. Below is the press release from the company.
Miura Debuts Two New Players’ Irons
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA — Miura Golf has introduced two new irons to their MG Collection– the CB-1008 cavityback and the MB-5005 muscleback — for better players.
CB-1008
The CB-1008 player’s cavityback is forged from a billet of soft carbon steel. It features awider sole (19mm on the 7-iron) that significantly contributes to the iron’s playability and forgiveness. That weight distribution in the sole, combined with a lower center of gravity, delivers forgiveness and increased launch angles — especially in the mid- and long irons. “Being able to deliver the feel and performance generally only associated with a Blade iron makes the CB-1008 a naturally choice in the players’ iron category,” says Bill Holowaty, COO of Miura Golf. “A wider sole and a precise distribution of weight are design characteristics which enhance the playability of this iron.” Each CB-1008 iron has a $279 MAP price.
MB-5005
By redistributing approximately 15 grams of weight from the muscleback part of the iron,
we modified the design of a typical blade iron — resulting in the MB-5005. Thus, this iron looks like a blade but plays like a cavityback. It incorporates one of Miura’s key design principles, “There exist subtleties with the design of the MB-5005 which have enabled the Miura family to deliver a Blade iron that plays like a Cavity Back,” said Holowaty. “The redistribution of weight in the head allows for an expanded sweet spot and lower center of gravity. The MB-5005 is also slightly longer from heel to toe, delivering a feeling of confidence to the golfer at address.”
The MB-5005 is a limited edition product line in North America. Each MB-5005 iron has a $329 MAP price.
About Miura Golf
Miura Golf makes the world’s finest forged golf clubs, which are designed and manufactured by the Miura family in their factory in Himeji, Japan. The entire family works hands-on in the factory and continues to carry on the Miura legacy.
World-renowned craftsman Katsuhiro Miura began hand-crafting and grinding irons in 1957, and has created one of the most-respected brands in the golf industry. Miura’s endless quest for the perfect club has brought to the world over 10 product series, a number that grows as the next generation of the Miura family – led by sons Shinei and Yoshitaka – continue their meticulous refinement and evolution of product lines. Each club is individually hand-crafted and will never be mass produced, as generations of steel-making skill and passion brings to us the world’s finest golf clubs.
This attention to detail will be demonstrated in the new Miura branding, which now reflects the clean and sleek lines of a Miura club. The rebrand also reflects the new partnership between the Miura and Milstein families, and also reflects a broader reach with their products that display the same exquisite quality but with the ability to serve golfers of all skill levels. With the release of more forgiving clubs, Miura is reaching deeper into the golf community and exposing more golfers to its legendary feel and craftsmanship.
Wisconsin… it’s a home to so many great things. The shimmering shores of the coastline that borders Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. It’s the home of the Badgers, Packers, Brewers and Bucks. I think it also was the home to televisions sitcom “Laverne and Shirley” and the brewery that they worked for. Wisconsin is also known for its forests and farmlands. After this week it is also known for a golf course that was created on land where dairy cows once grazed so we could eat Wisconsin cheese.
One of Wisconsin’s finest.
This week the USGA held its national championship in Erin, Wisconsin at Erin Hills. A golf course owned by visionary Andrew Ziegler and designed by the team of Dr. Michael Hurdzan, Dana Fry and Ron Whitten. A links-style golf course that looked like it would be right at home with the wind-swept links courses of Scotland and Ireland. The venue was actually built with the anticipation of one day hosting the U.S. Open.
Leading up to the U.S. Open at Erin Hills there was quite the build-up about the course itself. While some players in the field like Rory McIlroy were loving the golf course and its set-up others were quick to judge the golf course harshly. I wrote about Adam Scott and Kevin Na who posted “that video” on social media about the rough and after he turned in a solid first round he was quick to say that his remarks were taken out of context. Either way, to summarize the golf course it appeared to be in terrific shape, yes the first cut was long and the fescue was just that. But this golf course also featured fairways that were said to be 50-60 yards wide and greens that were everything that Chambers Bay wasn’t.
Photo Credit: erinhills.com
Before the end of the first round of the year’s second Major Championship it was already very newsworthy. On Thursday, there was the news that a blimp doing advertising for a financial institution caught on fire and later crashed within proximity of the golf course. Thankfully everyone survived and the pilot who was burned in the fire is said to be okay. Meanwhile at a hydration station on the golf course E.coli bacteria was found. The stations were shutdown and the USGA would supply complimentary bottled water to the spectators at all of the hydration stations for the duration of the tournament. While the rough and the fescue effected some like Rory who said and I am paraphrasing… “You have fairways 50-60 yards wide and the best players in the world. The fescue shouldn’t be an issue”. Ironically enough for him it turned out to be a problem. Yet for Kevin Na (whom admonished the fescue) it wasn’t as he played very well that first day. In fact, many more players played very well but none played better than Rickie Fowler during round one. Rickie that first day was “on fire” and as hard as he fought the rest of the way he would slowly fade out of contention. If Rickie could win a Major… it would be a great thing for golf. A young man who possesses many of the same characteristics as Mr. Palmer.
Rickie winning a Major would be great for all of golf. (Photo Credit: golfweek.com)
By the time the tournament had finished its second round there was more off the course news. It was reported that a 94 year-old man passed away at the course. Also making news at the conclusion of the second round was the list of players who did not make the cut. The top three in the world Jason Day, Rory McIlroy and Dustin Johnson all missed the cut. As did players like Bubba Watson, Justin Rose, Adam Scott and Henrik Stenson to name a few. But the news wasn’t all bleak. The amateurs in the field played real well. Players like Cameron Champ (who was -5 after the first two rounds) had me excited at the prospect of a “what if an amateur won?” . The U.S. Open low amateur Scottie Scheffler gave us some excitement as well. Congratulations go out to the latter.
What blew me away though was the record-setting number of players better than par for the tournament. Never has a U.S. Open seen these kinds of numbers occur. I am the first to admit that I love to watch the U.S. Open because of the carnage that typically happens. Conditions that border on brutal and in a way… stupid. Think about Chambers Bay or the fiasco that occurred at 2018 venue Shinnecock Hills in 2004. For the most part I was sort of “bored” watching the golf because the scores were so low but then the third round happened on Saturday. More and more low scores were getting posted but none were lower than the -9 (63) turned in by Justin Thomas. It was the lowest score that a player has recorded in relation to par in a U.S. Open championship. It was a round that bested the prior record set by Johnny Miller at the 1973 U.S. Open. A record that the “shy’ Johnny Miller has never really mentioned. That round by Thomas could be summed up with one adjective… electric. Speaking of electric.
I know that I mentioned that I love the U.S. Open because of the low scores turned in. I love the U.S. Open because it can make the world’s best look ordinary. As much as I was “bored” by the low scores getting posted it did make for compelling television. Numerous players were in contention after the third round including 54 hole leader Brian Harman, Hideki Matsuyama, Tommy Fleetwood and Brooks Koepka setting up what could make for a fantastic final round. Finally the winds were going to be up a little bit from earlier in the week and alas it would be a chance for Erin Hills to show her teeth. While Harman and Fleetwood would play par golf and Matsuyama would fire an impressive -6 (66) Brooks Koepka would pull away and beat the field by four strokes and post a -5 (67) en route to his Major victory. The first of what could be many in his career.
The Champion Brooks Koepka (Photo Credit: businessinsider.com)
As I sit back and digest everything that happened it’s tough not think about and remember the side stories from the 117th U.S. Open Championship at Erin Hills. Crash and burning of the literal and figurative kind. Bacteria-laced water and the death of a golf fan. We crowned a newly minted Major champion. I still like scores closer to par in a championship like the U.S. Open but in the end Erin Hills you were fun. The 117th U.S. Open proved to provide plenty of excitement for golf and its collective fanbase.
Before I really get into this piece I need to clarify that I am not writing this particular piece looking for a pity party. I’ve never been that guy and never will be. But I also happen to be the kind of guy that wears my heart on sleeve. Anybody that really knows me would agree and say that I’m really easy to read.
In the past I have documented my 18 year fight with various health issues. I know that I don’t have a terminal illness or need to be in palliative care but I have been plagued with battle after battle and it really does seems never-ending. The past 18 years has seen me go through numerous Transient Ischemic Attacks, a scare that saw me go ever so close to renal failure, a near amputation of my right leg and numerous cardiac issues not to mention Diabetes. Most of these issues have really come within the last six years. Ironically enough, this is the period of time when I decided to try this golf thing as a professional. The results never came and I am not the least bit ashamed of it… if anything I would have regrets if I never tried.
Gangrene… never again!
I guess the point that I’m trying to make is that in life you have a choice. Quit and feel sorry for yourself or you can fight and grind and make the most of life. I’m definitely in the latter category and I think this is why I get “pissed” at guys when they withdraw from tournaments because they’re playing bad. I remember my first event… I was stressed out or at least I think that I was. I cold-topped my first ever tee shot as a professional which unceremoniously never made it past the forward tees. Then I topped my recovery shot as well out of the lush rough. By the time I was walking up the third hole at FireRock Golf Club in Komoka, Ontario I was having an angina episode. I never withdrew then and played out the tournament. I was playing okay in a U.S. Open Local Qualifier one year at Mendon Country Club in Victor, NY. On the 8th hole I suffered a real “doozer” of an angina attack. Maybe I should have applied for a cart but I didn’t want to be “that guy”. This one was so bad that I couldn’t really lift my arm over my head because of weakness. I played that one out too and got the “letter of death”. In fact, I had one withdrawal from a tournament when I was carted off of the course and taken by ambulance from Tarandowah Golfer’s Club in Avon, Ontario. This was also on the Great Lakes Tour like the FireRock event. I didn’t want to quit but I had no choice. Flee or fight right?
I remember when this was taken. 9th Hole Tarandowah… 2 holes later I was taken by ambulance.
Over the last few months I’ve been fighting some issues that have gotten worse than I’ve ever had. Weakness, chest palpitations and light-headedness. I’ve gone through a battery of tests recently and an Ultrasound (Doppler) of my lower body revealed that I have severe blockages of the Iliac, Renal ,Femoral and Tibial arteries. It explains a lot like the strain and pain that I feel in my legs all too often. Also, I had a Carotid Doppler (Ultrasound) last week and I found out that I have a moderate to severe blockage of my Right Innominate Artery which comes off of the Carotid Artery. This also explains a lot of things like the light-headedness. In the next two weeks I have more tests like a Holter Monitor for a few days, an exercise stress test and an Echocardiogram. Hopefully, we can get all of our ducks in a row and start making me feel at least a little better.
A better day means #fightandgrind. Testing Vice Golf and Loudmouth Golf.
In the meantime I have a choice to make. Fight or feel sorry for myself. Of course in typical fashion I choose to fight and grind. I’ve been trying to get to the range to practice but I haven’t been able to go because I’ve had a ton of bad days recently. Today I had a good day and felt good enough to go. So off to the range I went at Legends On The Niagara and spent three hours working on short game, putting and full swing taking full advantage of my good day. While I was at it I was testing products from VICE Golf, Loudmouth Golf, Skechers and SwingOil for upcoming reviews. It was an okay session that ended real strong. I had some rust and I made some horrible passes where I was topping my 7-iron. It drove me nuts and then I realized the problem. Here’s a little tip kids…
Check your grip pressure and arm tightness. If it’s too tight a lot of bad will come of it. No wrist hinging and you’ll likely stand up during the backswing. A loss of spine angle and a flip later and you’re cold-topping 7-irons. Loose hands and spaghetti arms.
It was so nice being out there today. I just sat out there on a bench on the range and took it all in. The sounds, the sights and the smells. All of these things are the reason why I love this game. If you’re down… #fightandgrind
It’s that time again. The time has come to be an old crotchety, cantankerous old man. This week there have been a few things in the golf world that have really ground my gears. So without further delay it’s time to get it off of my chest.
Phil missing the U.S. Open to see his daughter graduate. Thumbs up to you Phil! (Photo Credit: change.org)
As we approach Father’s Day weekend that means only one thing and one thing only. It’s time for the second Major of the year… The U.S. Open. I wanted to touch on this because there are a few things that are bugging me. The first thing is Phil Mickelson and his electing to not play in the championship this year. The reason? Well, his daughter Amanda is graduating from high school and just happens to be the senior class president. As the story goes a PGA Professional from the Tucson, AZ area petitioned the high school requesting that the school should change the date of commencement so “Lefty” could play in the U.S. Open. Furthermore, he took it upon himself to speak for “millions of golf fans” to write this petition stating that it was taking away from Mickelson’s chance to win the career Grand Slam. Thanks Mr. PGA Professional you don’t need to speak for me. I don’t know anything about you or whether or not you have family. I know one thing for certain. If it were me with the career Grand Slam being a possibility… I would never EVER miss my child’s graduation or be so consumed to take it upon myself to write a high school asking them to alter their plans. Personally, I think you would have had better luck writing the USGA to get them to change their ways and date. I love and am passionate about golf and that’s abundantly clear but golf simply is not bigger than life nor does it circumvent life.
Just get out there and play Adam. (Photo Credit: golfweek.com)
Did I just say something about the USGA changing their ways? This year the U.S. Open is being contested up at Erin Hills in Erin, Wisconsin. Thousands of golfers have played in Local Qualifiers and those fortunate to advance have either or will be playing in Sectional Qualifiers. Recently, players to have advanced through Sectional Qualifying to get into the field include Kyle Thompson, Jason Kokrak, Bryson DeChambeau, Keegan Bradley and veteran Steve Stricker. Many congratulations goes out to those players and the rest that have made it through qualifying. Unfortunately with those accolades comes a bit of negativity. This week Adam Scott was quoted as saying hopefully the USGA “gets it right this time” as far as making the venue fair. Scott feels (as do many others) that the USGA is too concerned with protecting a golf course against par. Define “fair”? No rough.. maybe an inch? A course that players see week in and week out on every stop on tour. Fairways and greens so meticulous where nothing is out of place? Only The Masters thanks. I like the USGA for setting up the courses tough. I might be in the minority but I hate when tournaments have winning score of -15 or better. It’s not right. I hope the greens are firm, the rough lush and the fairways tight. In no way am I suggesting the “Carnage at Chambers Bay” or “The Farce at Shinnecock” repeat themselves. But keep the players… “honest”! It’s the same course for the same field. That said, if the USGA gets a couple of things right please let it be no outside interference from viewers, let the players govern themselves and please for the love of all things right if a Rules Official is brought in. Please make the right call and get through a championship minus egg on your collective faces.
Shhhh… enough is enough. Leave him alone. (Photo Credit: businessinsider.com)
Lastly, the handling of Tiger Woods. I won’t shy away from the fact that I wrote about it (This And That) and I stand by everything that I said and I won’t retract anything. I too have had my transgressions although none of those put my family or others at risk or in harm’s way. However, the way the man has been dragged through the mud by the City of Jupiter is appalling. Yes, I posted the mug shot as did many other writers and if he was you or I would there have been a mug shot posted of us? Likely not. But they had a celebrity in a vulnerable place and situation and I wouldn’t be the least surprised if somebody got paid a decent amount for the leaked picture. Instead of leaving it at that one mug shot out comes dash cam footage and even footage from when Tiger was in the holding area. Jupiter, Florida that was bush league. I don’t condone DUI in any way shape or form nor have I operated a vehicle while being on heavy pain killers but before you shared that footage with millions of people think to yourself… would I do that to MY family member? Was it some sort of example setting? Either way… get a grip and grow up. Whatever happened to some semblance of privacy?
The other day I wrote about some new products being released by Miura Golf. A company that exudes pride, quality and class. Thus far, I have talked about the Hayate (Hi-yah-tay) driver and fairway woods which I first saw at the PGA Show back in January. I’ve also talked about the Passing Point Neo Genesis PP 2005 G irons as well which I have already made swings with. An iron that has the Miura feel yet one that feels “distinctive” at impact.
Mary Beth Lacy of Mary Beth Lacy Inc shared the most recent press release with me from Miura Golf. Following closely on the heels of the Hayate debut is the next part of the “MG Collection”. Miura is very proud to introduce the CB 2008 an iron “for all skill levels”. With the CB 2008 Miura Golf introduces an iron with a mid-sized head that features a soft carbon steel face and neck while the cavity back is constructed from a composite material. Thus allowing a wider sole (which may not appeal to all skill levels) which allows for a larger sweet spot and more forgiveness while keeping the centre of gravity low. Going back to my remarks about the wider sole.. I am in no way insinuating that the soles are shovel like because quite frankly that is not Miura.
While there is more technical information I will let Miura Golf explain the iron more in-depth. Below is the press release.
Miura Golf Debuts CB 2008 Irons For All Skill Levels
HIMEJI, JAPAN — Miura Golf has introduced its new CB 2008 irons, which dispel the notion that forged irons are only for better players. “The CB 2008 epitomizes how advancements in technology can be delivered to golfers of all skill levels,” says Bill Holowaty, COO of Miura Golf. “The midsize clubhead combines a soft carbon forged face and neck with a composite, pocket cavityback. This design allows for a wider sole, lower center of gravity, larger sweet spot and more forgiveness. Meaning that regardless of your ability, a Miura forged iron is waiting for you.”
CB 2008
The CB 2008 begins with a single billet of soft carbon steel. The mid-sized head is the first composite body iron produced exclusively at Miura’s Himeji, Japan factory. Technological advancements have enabled the factory to integrate a forged face (just 4mm thick) with a SUS composite pocket cavityback. The result is an iron that delivers a performance previously unseen in any Miura iron.
The evolution of the sweet spot power bridge is integral to this process. In the 5-through-8-iron, this unique design allows the pocket cavity to perform consistently throughout the entire set while delivering the renowned Miura feel. The 9-iron and PW are one-piece forged. The CB 2008 boasts a deeper center of gravity, adding a level of forgiveness that will appeal to all golfers — regardless of playing index or experience. Enhancing the playability is Miura’s widest iron sole ever — it’s 20mm in the 7-iron, for example — allowing for more solid contact on shots from all types of lies and conditions.
“The most important aspect of the design and development process is delivering the feel and performance that have long been the DNA of Miura forged irons,” says Holowaty. “Golfers are going to love the CB 2008.” Each iron carries a $339 MAP price.
Even if the sole is on the wider side the CB 2008 iron looks to have an appealing topline. Miura feel in an easier to swing chassis making for more forgiveness and a larger sweet spot? This one I am excited about. The first chance that I get to swing these irons I will let you (my readers) know how they perform.
Since I started my foray into golf there have been several golf equipment manufacturers that have caught both my imagination and attention. While there have been some terrific products from golf’s corporate giants (and there always will be) none of these products have the mystique factor for me like Miura Golf.
Miura-san at his chair. (Photo Credit: Miura Golf – Facebook)
Back in January Miura Golf announced that they were going to be making some changes to the way that they do business. Miura was founded by the legendary patriarch Katsuhiro Miura whom can be found sitting at his chair grinding wedges and irons like he has for the last 40 years. Miura-San in a way has “passed the torch” to his two sons Yoshitaka and Shinei. While the company has introduced a slight change in philosophy (rebranding) and a new partnership with the Milstein family the company will retain the same pride and attention to detail that has made Miura Golf what it is today. In my opinion Miura Golf and its products are the epitome of class.
The Passing Point Neo Genesis PP 9005 G irons.
In the past, I have been very fortunate and blessed to have been afforded the opportunity to review Miura Golf products. Back when I was simply alexandertothgolf.com I tested and reviewed the Series 1957 K Grind wedge which is quite simply a work of art. Also, I had the opportunity to test and review their CB3 which to this day is the loveliest hybrid that I have ever made swings with. While accidentally running into their booth at the PGA Merchandise Show I had a gander at their products. They had in attendance their new Passing Point Neo Genesis PP 9005 G irons. As I soaked in the beauty of these irons I was about to walk away when a shimmer of light caught my eye. Sitting in a golf bag against the wall was a driver and fairway wood that I had never seen. As I peered closer I noticed honeycomb-like feature and “MG” logo emblazoned on the sole. This club was their “to be released” Hayate.
The MG Hayate… part of the MG Collection.
The day is fast approaching for the release of the Hayate driver and fairway woods. In North America the “MG Collection” will launch in 18 days on June 2oth. In advance of the launch, Mary Beth Lacy of golf marketing firm Mary Beth Lacy Inc.shared a press release with me for immediate release. Below is the press release as mentioned outlining more of the information on the Hayate driver and fairway wood.
Miura Golf Debuts Hayate Driver and Fairway Woods
HIMEJI, JAPAN — Miura Golf has introduced its new Hayate driver and fairway woods. Pronounced “hi yaw tay”, Hayate directly translates to “the sound of the wind”, says Bill Holowaty, COO of Miura Golf. “The Miura family has worked long and hard to create models that offer forged excellence to golfers who don’t strike the ball consistently. The same can now be said with the Hayate line of woods. The patience and attention to detail of Shinei Miura – son of company founder and legendary clubmaker Katsuhiro Miura — have resulted in a driver and fairway woods that are worthy of the Miura name.”
The Hayate driver is designed to maximize ball speed and optimize launch characteristics for golfers of all skill levels. Its 460cc shallow clubhead has a matte black crown finish, providing a clear contrast to the titanium face. The club features FWS (Floating Weight Structure) Technology. Inside the clubhead is a 35-gram arch that floats above the sole – this technology provides an optimized center of gravity, resulting in maximum ball speed and reduced spin. The clubhead has an adjustable heel weight, which allows for up to 8 grams of adjustability to optimize head weight and promote either a draw or fade bias. Adjustable weights are available in 2-gram increments, and are sold separately. The driver’s honeycomb MG sole enhances structural stability which adds to the superb feel Miura is known for. The Hayate driver is available in lofts of 9.5° and 10.5° (standard clubhead weight is 196g, adjustable weights allow for +/- 4g). Its $639 MAP price varies depending on shaft choice.
The Hayate fairway woods are designed to be versatile and playable, both off the tee and fairway. They feature a one-piece titanium construction, which delivers a strong, stable and consistent clubhead with the industry’s tightest tolerances. The shallow clubface and low center of gravity promotes a high launch and unparalleled forgiveness. A low center of gravity delivers optimum ball flight, while variable toe and heel adjustable weights enable the club to promote either a draw or fade bias. The distinctive sole shape allows for optimized turf interaction, better ball contact, and ultimately more consistent shots. The woods are available in lofts of 15° and 18°, and come with an adjustable 4-gram toe weight and 8-gram heel weight. Additional weights are available in 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 grams and are sold separately. Each fairway wood has a $539 MAP price that varies depending on shaft choice.
About Miura Golf
Miura Golf makes the world’s finest forged golf clubs, which are designed and manufactured by the Miura family in their factory in Himeji, Japan. The entire family works hands-on in the factory and continues to carry on the Miura legacy.
World-renowned craftsman Katsuhiro Miura began hand-crafting and grinding irons in 1957, and has created one of the most-respected brands in the golf industry. Miura’s endless quest for the perfect club has brought to the world over 10 product series, a number that grows as the next generation of the Miura family – led by sons Shinei and Yoshitaka – continue their meticulous refinement and evolution of product lines. Each club is individually hand-crafted and will never be mass-produced, as generations of steel-making skill and passion brings to us the world’s finest golf clubs.
This attention to detail will be demonstrated in the new Miura branding, which now reflects the clean and sleek lines of a Miura club. The rebrand also reflects the new partnership between the Miura and Milstein families, and also reflects a broader reach with their products that display the same exquisite quality but with the ability to serve golfers of all skill levels. With the release of more forgiving clubs, Miura is reaching deeper into the golf community and exposing more golfers to its legendary feel and craftsmanship.
With any luck I’ll be having the opportunity to once again test and review their equipment. In February, I had a sneak peek at the Niagara Golf Show of the Passing Point Neo Genesis PP 9005G irons and I made a few swings. Although I had no chance to see any ball flight (the hitting area was 20′ long) I will say that the feel is a little different from other products of theirs that I have made passes with in the past. In that situation you really can’t judge but I will say that they felt “hot off of the face” and the feel itself was a little “clicky” which is not to be misconstrued as a derogatory adjective. Unfortunately, there wasn’t a Hayate to swing but to get a small chance like I did to get in an advanced swing or two with the Genesis irons was a bonus. Stay tuned.
*** If you’re looking for a review of the KING F8 ONE Length Irons please click here.
In my opinion Cobra Golf has been one of the bigger “mover and shakers” in the golf equipment game the last several years. Most notably their metalwoods. The concept of one length or single length irons is not a new concept. There has been much talk about whether legendary Canadian golfer Moe Norman used them. While some can back up this urban legend others cannot. Only Moe himself knows the truth. Single length irons had never really entered my thoughts except on two occasions. The first was when I incorrectly measured and cut a re-shafted 7-iron to 5-iron length (I liked the result). The second time was when Bryson DeChambeau burst onto the scene (the latter being signed by Cobra Golf).
Like most of my opportunities to test equipment my opportunity to have a look at the Cobra Golf KING F7 ONE Length and KING Forged ONE Length irons came this past January at the PGA Show. Out of all the irons that were going to be released in 2017 I was extremely intrigued by Cobra Golf’s foray into ONE Length irons. Much of my curiosity had to do with the youngster DeChambeau but more of my curiosity had to do with my mistake years ago. As mentioned above the concept isn’t new as there have been other company’s that have tried to see single length irons enter into the forefront of the golfing public’s collective minds. But why?
ONE Length irons. Are they for everyone?
The theory behind the concept of single length irons is that it allows golfers to have one swing and to have said swing stay on one plane. Moreover, single length irons can allow golfers to have a little less to think about when golfing. In my opinion, one of the leading causes for many faults in the golf swing is what seems to be one fundamental. The ever-changing ball position from club to club as the set gets either shorter or longer. With single length irons (like Cobra Golf’s KING F7 ONE Length and Forged ONE irons) this issue can easily be averted… or at least in theory it can be. After all it’s one set-up position and one ball position. The other end result(s) (in theory) for proponents of ONE Length irons is that clubs of one length improves ball-striking, accuracy and to a lesser extent… distance. Basically, ONE Length irons in theory could be the ultimate way to improve and lower golfers scores.
So, for the few month’s leading up to the PGA Show the teasers got me all riled up and excited. Anything to help golfers improve right? Myself included. Are ONE length irons about having all of your shafts either extended or shortened to be the same length? Not exactly. One thing to bear in mind is that the heads all need to be the same weight. For instance, if you were to take a set of the striking Cobra Golf KING Pro Forged MB irons and make them all of the same length it wouldn’t work (optimally). For the sake of argument the head of a 4 iron weighs 250 grams. As you progress through the set you might find the 9 iron to weigh 285 grams. To make the concept work you would have to find a “happy medium” between the two. As far as I can recollect Cobra engineers decided on a weight in the area of 270 (ish) grams. With a head weight decided on the next issue is what length to make them. Again, Cobra Golf R&D decided on the length of a typical 7 iron. For most golfers a 7 iron is a golf club in their bag that they feel confident swinging.
To make the concept of ONE Length irons appeal to a wider variety of golfers looking to try something new Cobra decided that two models of ONE Length irons made the most sense. The two models are the “true” game-improvement KING F7 ONE Length and then for golfers looking for a little more feel and a neater profile in a forged design Cobra introduced the FORGED ONE Length irons. Below is a little bit of a summary on the two models.
Striking with better consistency?
KING F7 ONE Length Irons – The KING F7 ONE Length irons are geared more towards the mid to high handicap golfer. The lofts of these irons starts at 20* in the 4 iron and go all of the way thru to the SW which is 55*. I should note that the 4-iron and Sand Wedge for this set is a custom option. For a reference point I always like to look at the loft of the PW. In this particular case the PW has a loft of 45* which has almost become the norm in game-improvement irons sets. The length of these irons is a uniform 37.25″ with stock steel and stock graphite shaft options. The graphite is the Fujikura Pro 63i (Stiff Flex is 66 grams) while the stock steel offering is the 109 gram “Made For” True Temper KING F7 shaft. Both options feature mid torque and mid kickpoint. The faces of these irons are precision-milled and feature Cobra’s “PWRSHELL” face as seen in the more conventional F7. The PWRSHELL face is “A thinner, stronger face and sole structure re-engineered for speed. Using a high strength 17-4 stainless steel L-Cup face design. We’ve produced a larger Sweet Zone delivering distance, more forgiveness and ultra precise irons.”
KING FORGED ONE Length – The Forged ONE Length iron is the set that was inspired by Bryson DeChambeau. Like the non-forged version the set starts with a 4-iron and the loft is the same at 20*. Ironically enough the PW is also the same at 45*. The shafts are also 37.25″ and there is less offset than the F7 ONE Length. Of interest, the swingweight of the Forged ONE Length is a little heavier than the F7 version by 1.5 points which doesn’t sound like a lot but it does make a difference as it can translate into better feel through impact. The stock shaft for the FORGED ONE Length is the KBS Tour FLT where the weight for a stiff flex is 120 grams. Unfortunately for the left-handed golfers out there Cobra does not offer a left-handed set at this time.
The handsome blade length of the KING Forged ONE.
While attending the Demo Day at the PGA Show I managed to stop very briefly by the Cobra Golf tent. It was no surprise that their booth was rocking and due to time constraints (other appointments) I didn’t have a great chance to swing their products. This might have been a good thing because by the time that I got there the tee deck was chewed up… badly. I managed to put on a couple of quick swings with the FORGED ONE Length 6 iron. My results were fine but when I switched to a PW I was surprised that I kept hitting it fat. Perhaps, I wasn’t used to the PW being so long? I still don’t recollect whether I made one pass that would be considered okay with the PW.
However, I was finishing up a range session at nearby Legends on the Niagara and I noticed that there would be a Cobra Golf Demo Day. I thought that I would use the opportunity to have a second and more in-depth look at the Cobra Golf range of products for 2017. My chief reason for going ultimately was to swing the ONE Length irons. After getting warmed up with one of Cobra’s beautiful PUR wedges I started to make swings with the KING FORGED ONE Length irons. I opted to swing the PW first because I struggle so much in Orlando with the same club. This time was different and I was immediately impressed with the feel of the PW. Strikes were clean and the divots tidy. The loft as mentioned was 45* and I noticed that the flight of the ball was flatter. A testament to the KBS shafts and the weighting in the head. Feeling pretty satisfied I moved up to the 6-iron and I loved everything about what I experienced. The ballflight was strong, flighting the ball was easy and so was shaping shots. My typical shot pattern is a slight draw and these clubs were no different. I never really touched on the aesthetics yet but I will say that they are very pleasing on the eye. As nice as say the KING Pro MB? No but looking at them was no problem. Cobra Golf made a very nice looking iron and the offset was minimal. I progressed to the 4 iron and this is where I found an issue. I really struggled and I mean struggled with the iron. I have never had an issue with swinging a 4 iron like I did with this particular one. There wasn’t one pass that was satisfactory. It might have been some sort of weird anomaly but the 4 iron definitely felt lighter (especially at impact). I went back to the 6-iron and PW… no issue back to the 4-iron and everything was thin. I kept losing it through impact and I was only able to produce weak flails out to the right. All things considered the FORGED ONE Length were a very nice iron to swing.
A flatter more penetrating flight with the KING Forged ONE. These KBS Tour FLT shafts are a terrific fit.
Where the FORGED ONE had that one anomaly I cannot say the same for the KING F7 ONE Length irons. Yes looking down at address there is a little bit more beef. Yes there is definitely more offset noticeable as well. Is there a little more “bling” going on? The answer to that question is also yes. I wasn’t overly thrilled with the graphics on the badge (cavity) but for everything that I had to say that was seemingly negative… that’s where the negativity ends. I opted to start with a 5-iron and all that I could do was hit the ball straight to baby draw and elevating the ball was super easy. The flight wasn’t as aggressive (penetrating) as the forged offering but the ball just seemed to carry forever. Like its variable length brother the KING F7 ONE was long and might be the longest iron that I’ve had the pleasure of swinging in 2017. Even though the F7 ONE didn’t go through the 5-Step Forging Process that Cobra used in its brother I really liked the feel. I would say “jumpy” is a good adjective and I thought that the feel was very satisfactory. I moved down to the 7-iron from the 5-iron and the results were the same. Long, high baby draw on command. I was able to hit a few cuts but the F7 ONE Length loves to send the ball straight. I just found that I had to take the club back a little more outside than usual to hit the fade. I have to add that controlling the flight was easily achieved as well. I progressed from the 7-iron to the PW and the results were identical. I had no issue going down through the set and then right back up to a lower lofted iron.
The jury is still out on whether ONE Length irons are going to take-off or simmer slowly. There are a few closing observations that I feel that I need to make. I noticed that the transition from club to club was easy. My striking seemed to be really consistent and any concerns of the same length shafts contributing to repeatable yardages was “debunked” which was a mild concern of mine. I would have no issue putting either set into play but based on the cosmetics and feel I would lean towards the FORGED ONE Length. There is no denying that the F7 ONE Length flat-out performs. If you’re in the market and want to look into something that you haven’t explored yet to improve your game… look into ONE Length from Cobra Golf. #ONElove
