Titleist AP2 Irons (New for 2008)
Titleist strays from conventional designs…will it payoff?
It already has paid off for Adam Scott. He won the 2008 Qatar Masters using the new AP2 irons.
I had an opportunity recently to try the AP2’s last week. As soon as I picked up the clubs, I knew it wouldn’t take long for me to fall in love with them. They’re a lot like my Titleist 735’s in that they’re forged and confidence inspiring at address. But that’s basically where the similarities end.
I wasn’t thrilled with the asthetic features of the AP2’s but once you get past the badges and TaylorMade RAC-like dual-cavity, they’re EVERY BIT AS SOLID as previous Titleist irons.
The set I tested had Project-X (stiff) steel shafts. I’m not sure that these will be offered in Graphite….sorry, Dad!
The AP2 irons allowed me to work the ball just as well as my 735’s and the launch angle was similar. However, the spin control was much better (though that could be a result of the Project-X shafts). I also noticed that these clubs seem to be lighter than previous Titleist sets. That’s probably a result of the new multi-material design enhancements.
The Titleist AP2 irons will be available in March of 2008. I know most traditionalist are not turned-on by the looks but I’d definitely recommend trying them for yourself. I was able to hit each club a few times and I’m definitely sold.
Follow up (June 2008):
Well I’ve been using the AP2’s for a few weeks now and I’m really impressed! I didn’t think anything would replace my 735 CM’s but the Titleist AP2’s are staying in my bag. They are longer than the 735’s, more forgiving and did I mention LONGER! I picked up almost 5 yards per club. And they’re just as workable too! The AP2 irons feel so light and yet they’re extremely solid. They’re not quite as soft/smooth feeling as the 735’s but they’re still pretty buttery.
The Ap2’s seem to descend at a slightly steeper angle. I’ve been stopping four irons on the green after just a few inches of roll.
The Project X shafts are so sweet. Some people expressed concerns with the Titleist AP2 irons ballooning. I have not experienced this at all. If anything, the ball flight is high yet penetrating. It just keeps going!!!!
I plan on trying the ZB’s out in a few weeks…however, I don’t see the AP2’s being bumped aside any time soon.