Best Irons For High Handicappers
Introduction
Discover the best irons for high handicappers with our expert guide, featuring top factors to consider, personal experiences, and recommendations to elevate your golf game to the next level.
Which sets of irons will turn out to be the best? Find out below…
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Launcher XL
- XL Head Design for maximum forgiveness and HT MOI of 3,081 g-cm
- MainFrame Face Technology for increased ball speed
- Action Mass CB for better balance and control
- V-Shaped Sole for less drag and improved playability
- Loft Specific Grooves for optimized spin and distance
Stealth Irons
- Cap Back Design with Toe Wrap Construction for low CG and easy launch
- Fast Forgiving Face with intelligently positioned sweet spot for explosive ball speeds
- Thru-Slot Speed Pocket for increased face flexibility and forgiveness
- Echo Damping System for a forged-like feel at impact
JPX923 Hot Metal HL
- Nickel Chromoly material increases ball speed by 35%
- Thinner topline for faster ball speed
- V-Chassis design for improved sound and feel
- CG lower in the face for higher launch and greater stopping power
- Sole extended 18% wider for consistent ball speed across the face
- Non-reflective, Chrome plated finishing reduces glare from the sun
- Ideal for players with moderate swing speeds who need a higher launching option
ZX5
- Milled pattern on backside maximizes COR for ball speed and distance
- Tour V.T. Sole glides smoothly through turf and features sole notches
- Tungsten in toe of long and mid irons increases MOI for forgiveness
- Forged SUP10 face enhances speed and distance
- Forged 1020 Carbon Steel body absorbs vibrations for soft feel
What is a high handicapper?
A high handicapper is a golfer with a higher handicap index, usually above 20. This indicates that they’re not as proficient in golf compared to lower handicap players. The key when is to focus on improving their skills and using equipment that caters to their specific needs. If you don’t currently have a handicap index then you can base it on how many over-par you typically shoot. If you aren’t regularly breaking 90 then most golfers would consider that you are a high handicapper
Action point: Identify your current handicap and set achievable goals for improvement.
Common challenges for high handicappers
High handicappers often face difficulties with accuracy, distance and consistency. They may struggle with slicing or hooking the ball, as well as generating sufficient clubhead speed for optimal distance. By understanding these challenges, they can work on their weaknesses and choose clubs designed to help overcome them.
Action point: Analyse your game to pinpoint areas where you need the most improvement.
Key Features to Look for in Irons
When choosing irons for high handicappers, there are several important features to consider. These include forgiveness, shaft flexibility, and clubhead design, all of which can contribute to improved performance on the golf course.
Forgiveness and a large sweet spot
Irons with greater forgiveness and a larger sweet spot can help high handicappers make better contact with the ball, even on off-center hits. This results in improved accuracy and distance, allowing players to enjoy the game more.
Action point: Look for irons with a high moment of inertia (MOI) and a large sweet spot when shopping for new clubs.
Shaft flexibility
Shaft flexibility plays a crucial role in generating clubhead speed and achieving optimal ball flight. A more flexible shaft can help compensate for slower swing speeds, resulting in better distance and accuracy.
Action point: Consider a graphite shaft with a regular or senior flex, depending on your swing speed and personal preference.
Clubhead design
A well-designed clubhead can make a significant difference in a high handicapper’s performance. Look for features such as a low center of gravity, perimeter weighting, and wide soles to help improve launch angle, forgiveness, and turf interaction.
Action point: Research clubhead designs that specifically cater to players with above-average handicaps and test them out to find the best fit for your game.
Best Golf Irons for Beginners And High Handicappers in 2023
The market offers a range of irons specifically designed for high handicappers. Some of the best options for 2023 include the Cleveland Launcher XL Irons, TaylorMade Stealth Golf Irons, Mizuno JPX923 Hot Metal HL Irons, and Srixon ZX5 Irons.
These clubs provide the ideal combination of forgiveness, performance, and design to help players improve their game.
Top Pick #1
Cleveland Launcher XL Irons
- XL Head Design for maximum distance and forgiveness
- MainFrame Variable Face Technology for increased ball speed
- Action Mass CB for more control without extra effort
- V-Shaped Sole for less drag and more playability
- Loft-Specific Grooves for the optimal balance of spin and distance
Expert’s Choice #1: Cleveland Launcher XL Irons
The Cleveland Launcher XL Irons boast a large sweet spot, high MOI, and a low center of gravity. These features work together to deliver impressive forgiveness, accuracy, and distance. The progressive shaping throughout the set makes these irons an excellent choice.
Action point: Give the Cleveland Launcher XL Irons a try to see if they’re the right fit for your game.
As recommended by https://golfinsideruk.com/best-irons-for-high-handicap/
Top Pick #2
TaylorMade Stealth Irons
- Cap Back Design with Toe Wrap Construction – expands distance, forgiveness and feel
- Fast Forgiving Face – intelligently positioned sweet spot for explosive ball speed and consistency
- Thru-Slot Speed Pocket – maximizes face flexibility for increased ball speed and forgiveness
- Echo Damping System – uses a soft polymer blend to channel away harsh vibrations and create a forged-like feel
Expert’s Choice #2: TaylorMade Stealth Golf Irons
TaylorMade Stealth Irons feature a unique Cap Back Design and SpeedFoam technology, which provide an exceptional blend of forgiveness, feel, and distance. These irons cater to high handicappers by offering improved launch conditions and a larger sweet spot.
Action point: Test the TaylorMade Stealth Golf Irons on the range or during a fitting session to experience their performance benefits firsthand.
As recommended by https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/news/buying-guides-best-forgiving-irons-for-high-handicappers/
Top Pick #3
Mizuno JPX923 Hot Metal HL Irons
- Introducing new Nickel Chromoly material, 35% stronger than the original Hot Metal material
- Thinner topline and faster ball speed due to material
- V-Chassis design for improved sound and feel
- Seamless cup face construction to lower CG and increase launch
- 18% wider sole for consistent ball speed across the face
- Chrome-plated, non-reflective finish reduces glare
- Ideal for moderate swing speeds needing a higher launch option
Expert’s Choice #3: Mizuno JPX923 Hot Metal HL Irons
Mizuno JPX923 Hot Metal HL Irons utilize the latest Chromoly 4140M material and a multi-thickness face to deliver outstanding ball speeds and forgiveness. The wide soles and low center of gravity make them ideal for high handicappers seeking improved launch and consistency.
Action point: Schedule a demo session with the Mizuno JPX923 Hot Metal HL Irons to determine if they suit your swing and game.
As recommended by https://www.todays-golfer.com/equipment/best/most-forgiving-golf-irons/
Top Pick #4
Srixon ZX5 Irons
- Forged 1020 Carbon Steel body for soft feel and vibration absorption
- Milled pattern maximizes COR for increased ball speed and distance
- Grooves in 8i-PW are sharper and deeper for spin and stopping power
- Tour V.T. Sole with notches for smooth turf interaction
- Tungsten in long and mid irons (3i-7i) for increased MOI and forgiveness
Expert’s Choice #4: Srixon ZX5 Irons
Srixon ZX5 Irons combine a forged construction with a progressive design, making them an excellent choice for high handicappers. The irons feature a large, forgiving face and a V-shaped sole for better turf interaction, promoting higher launch angles and more consistent contact.
Action point: Try the Srixon ZX5 Irons at a club fitting or demo day to evaluate their performance and compatibility with your game.
As recommended by https://golfergeeks.com/best-irons-for-mid-handicappers/
Best Irons For High Handicappers On A Budget
There are 3 options for you if you are working with limited funds.
- Buy a set of cheap irons from a budget manufacturer
- Buy a set of discontinued irons from a top manufacturer
- Buy some second-hand or pre-owned irons
Budget Options
Sub70 – 699
The 699 set of irons from sub70 is a forgiving iron for golfers who require some help but don’t want to sacrifice looks when out on the links. They start from around $500 depending on the shaft options you require.
The manufacturing process was tweaked to create an ultra-hot face and the largest sweet spot imaginable without compromising looks or playability. The precision-milled face is a 1.7mm wide strip of 455 Carpenter Steel that allows for maximum compression and flex to increase ball speed, even on off-center hits. The hollow body is injected with a resin-like substance called TPE to stabilize the face and improve feel and sound at impact.
The 699 is the successful result of Sub 70’s goal to provide an iron with cutting-edge game improvement tech but with the sleekness of a classic player’s club, igniting confidence at address and power at delivery.
If you are looking for even more forgiveness then you could opt for their 799 irons. They have ultra-wide soles and cavity backs to add to a hollow-body construction for high launch to help high handicap golfers.
TXG Rated the 799s as their best-value super game improvement irons.
Discontinued Models
The Mizuno JPX 919 hot metal irons are now 4 years old but you can still pick them up in some stores or online. I actually managed to grab a set for £350 ($435) although typically they could be had for around £400 ($500). That’s quite a saving compared with the JPX 923!
Used Iron Sets
If you don’t have much money to spend or aren’t sure if you are going to play the game long-term then a set of pre-owned irons might be a good idea.
The Ping G10 irons are ideal for beginners and high handicappers and looking on eBay at the moment you could pick up a set for $150-$300 depending on condition and make-up. These were among the best irons on the market when they were released.
There’s nothing to stop you from upgrading to a newer model in a year or two once your game has improved and you have a better idea of the sort of irons that will suit your game. The beauty of going the used route is there won’t be much depreciation when it comes time to trade up to a new set of irons.
Should High Handicappers Used Forged Irons?
There is nothing stopping golfers with handicaps of 20+ from using forged irons but usually, irons with forged heads are targeting better golfers. The center of gravity will be higher to maximize distance and lower trajectory which is probably not ideal. Most high handicap golfers will be better off with game-improvement irons or even super game improvement irons. These offer the maximum amount of assistance to help you hit the golf ball as well as possible.
Personal Experiences and Testimonials
Hearing from several high handicappers about their experiences with different irons can provide valuable insights. Here are some personal accounts from golfers who have succeeded with the Ping G25 Irons, Titleist T400 Irons, Wilson Staff D7 Irons, and Cobra Baffler XL Irons.
I’ve paraphrased some comments from various golfing forums such as https://golfwrx.com, https://reddit.com etc.
High handicapper #1: Ping G 25 Irons
“I’ve been using the Ping G 25 Irons for a few months now, and my game has improved dramatically. The irons are forgiving and help me achieve better distance and accuracy. I highly recommend them to other high handicappers.”
Action point: Research Ping G 25 Irons and consider testing them to see if they can improve your game.
High handicapper #2: Titleist T400 Irons
“The Titleist T400 Irons have been a game-changer for me. Their wide soles and low center of gravity make it easier to get the ball airborne and maintain consistent contact. I’ve seen a noticeable improvement in my scores since switching to these irons.”
Action point: Explore the features of the Titleist T400 Irons and try them during a fitting session.
High handicapper #3: Wilson Staff D7 Irons
“I recently switched to the Wilson Staff D7 Irons, and I couldn’t be happier. The clubs are lightweight, easy to swing, and offer plenty of forgiveness. My shots are now straighter, and I’m hitting more greens in regulation.”
Action point: Look into the benefits of Wilson Staff D7 Irons and consider trying them out to see if they can help your game.
High handicapper #4: Cobra Baffler XL Irons
“Since switching to the Cobra Baffler XL Irons, my golf game has significantly improved. The irons offer excellent forgiveness, and the wide soles glide through the turf effortlessly. I now have more confidence when standing over the ball.”
Action point: Research the Cobra Baffler XL Irons and consider scheduling a demo session to experience their performance benefits.
Expert Tips to Improve Your Golf Game
In addition to selecting the right irons for your game, there are other ways high handicappers can improve their skills. Here are some expert tips on swing mechanics, equipment fitting, and practice routines that can help elevate your performance on the golf course.
Swing mechanics
Focusing on your swing mechanics can lead to a more consistent and powerful golf swing. Working with a golf professional to refine your technique can greatly benefit high handicappers.
Action point: Schedule a lesson with a qualified golf instructor to identify and address any swing flaws.
Equipment fitting
Custom-fitting your golf equipment can make a significant difference in your game. A proper fitting ensures your clubs are tailored to your unique swing, promoting optimal performance.
Action point: Visit a club-fitting specialist to ensure your clubs are suited to your specific needs and abilities.
Practice routines
Developing a structured practice routine that targets specific aspects of your game can help high handicappers make meaningful improvements. Incorporate drills focusing on swing mechanics, short game, and putting to cover all facets of your game.
Action point: Create a balanced practice schedule that targets your weaknesses and includes regular practice sessions.
The Future of Golf Clubs for High Handicappers
As golf club technology continues to evolve, high handicappers can expect more advanced and customizable options in the future.
Some areas to watch include technological advancements and custom fitting options, which will further enhance the performance of golf clubs tailored to high handicappers.
Technological advancements
New materials, clubhead designs, and manufacturing techniques are continually being developed, resulting in more forgiving and high-performing clubs for high handicappers.
Action point: Stay informed about the latest golf club technologies to ensure you make the most of advancements that can benefit your game.
Custom fitting options
As the custom fitting process becomes more sophisticated, high handicappers will have access to an even greater range of options to optimize their equipment.
Action point: Regularly reassess your custom fitting needs to ensure your clubs remain suited to your evolving swing and abilities.
Making the Right Choice
When selecting the best irons for high handicappers, it’s crucial to consider factors such as budget, trying before buying and trusting your instincts. By taking a methodical approach to choosing the right clubs, high handicappers can make an informed decision that will benefit their game.
Budget considerations
While investing in high-quality clubs is important, it’s also crucial to work within your budget. Research and compare various irons to find the best options at your price point.
Action point: Set a realistic budget for your golf club purchase and explore options that provide the best value for your investment.
Trying before buying
It’s essential to test different clubs before committing to a purchase, as what works for one golfer may not be suitable for another.
Action point: Attend demo days, visit golf retailers, or schedule fitting sessions to try out various irons and find the best fit for your game.
Trusting your instincts
When selecting the best irons for your game, trust your instincts and choose clubs that feel comfortable and inspire confidence.
Action point: Pay attention to how each club feels during testing, and choose the ones that give you the most confidence on the course.
Conclusion
Armed with expert insights and personal experiences, make an informed decision to choose the best irons for high handicappers in 2023. Elevate your game, improve your skills, and enjoy the satisfaction of a perfect swing.
One option to consider if you aren’t as consistent as you’d like is to like for a set where the long irons have been replaced with more hybrid-like clubs as they can be much easier for you to score with. In fact, some sets now replace both the longer irons and short irons with hybrids!
Ready to find your perfect irons? Explore our top recommendations now and start making strides on the golf course today!
Launcher XL
- XL Head Design for maximum forgiveness and HT MOI of 3,081 g-cm
- MainFrame Face Technology for increased ball speed
- Action Mass CB for better balance and control
- V-Shaped Sole for less drag and improved playability
- Loft Specific Grooves for optimized spin and distance
Stealth Irons
- Cap Back Design with Toe Wrap Construction for low CG and easy launch
- Fast Forgiving Face with intelligently positioned sweet spot for explosive ball speeds
- Thru-Slot Speed Pocket for increased face flexibility and forgiveness
- Echo Damping System for a forged-like feel at impact
JPX923 Hot Metal HL
- Nickel Chromoly material increases ball speed by 35%
- Thinner topline for faster ball speed
- V-Chassis design for improved sound and feel
- CG lower in the face for higher launch and greater stopping power
- Sole extended 18% wider for consistent ball speed across the face
- Non-reflective, Chrome plated finishing reduces glare from the sun
- Ideal for players with moderate swing speeds who need a higher launching option
ZX5
- Milled pattern on backside maximizes COR for ball speed and distance
- Tour V.T. Sole glides smoothly through turf and features sole notches
- Tungsten in toe of long and mid irons increases MOI for forgiveness
- Forged SUP10 face enhances speed and distance
- Forged 1020 Carbon Steel body absorbs vibrations for soft feel
If you are looking for a driver then these are some good options for a high handicapper.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQ]
What is a high handicap in golf?
I would have always considered anything over 18 to be a high handicap although with the introduction of handicaps up to 54 maybe I need a re-think!
What is the most forgiving iron to hit?
Irons with more loft will be more “forgiving”. So a pitching wedge will be easier to hit than a 5-iron. Cavity-back clubs will be more forgiving than bladed clubs.
What is my handicap if I shoot 90?
Assuming you are playing on a full-size course with a par between 70-72 then your handicap will likely be in the region of 18-20. If you have a lot of very high hole scores (worse than double bogey) then you would have to knock a few more shots off that.
What Are The Most Forgiving Irons For High Handicappers?
Arguably the most forgiving irons for high handicap golfers are the Cleveland Launcher XL due to their hybrid-like design.
What Is The Best Putter For High Handicappers?
The best type of putter for high handicap golfers would be a mallet design as this offers maximum forgiveness. Depending on your budget you could try the Wilson Buckingham or the Scotty Cameron Phantom X12.
