While there is much to commend the MP-64 irons Mizuno released earlier this year, the reality is that they are geared toward a very small portion of the golfing populace. Touring pros like Luke Donald, to be sure. Elite amateurs as well, and low handicap players.
As a result, everyday golfers might be better served to consider another new product from the Japanese equipment maker, the Mizuno JPX-825 irons that came out this fall, as well. That’s because these are designed to be the longest, most forgiving irons in company history. There is even a forged version for the better player.
According to Chuck Close, director of marketing for Mizuno’s golf division, the JPX-825 irons feature an ultra-thin face that delivers an enhanced trampoline effect for extra distance. Specifically, in the irons from 4 through 7, an ultra-pocket cavity design and a multi-thickness face are made to produce solid feel at impact as well as high ball speeds and maximum forgiveness with a easy, high launch.
As for 8-PW, the clubs have a deep pocket cavity design, which is intended to provide greater precision and distance. Close says the sweet spot throughout the line is 15 percent larger than the one in its predecessor, the JPX-800, so even those shots not struck cleanly can still hold their distances and lines. In addition, a wide, triple-cut sole is made to create ideal turf interaction, while modified U-grooves produce optimal spin rates.
At the same time, Mizuno has introduced a forged version of this club, called the JPX-825 Pro, and it is currently being played on the PGA Tour by Charles Howell III. These irons are designed to provide similar advances in distance and forgiveness as the JPX-825, but without increasing the clubhead size.
These also have the added benefits of feel and workability that come from being “Grain Flow Forged” from 1025E “Pure Select” mild carbon steel, and they feature a thinner top line and less offset.