Callaway 2018 Apex MB and X Forged irons

Apex MB

The newest member of the Apex family is a true muscleback and with that comes all of the requisite design implications. No doubt after some tour player influence the Apex MB has been designed with a topline, narrow sole, compact blade length and minimal offset. it has all the makings of an iron that most of us will drool over, but few of us will actually be able to hit properly.

Forgiveness remains near non-existent with this iron, there are no speed enhancing technologies and no distance claims. The feature list itself is short. Callaway optimised CG locations to allow golfers to aggressively flight and control shots. The company's 20V groves provide greater consistency while helping to reduce the instances of fliers.
Finally, as you would expect from a proper blade, the Apex MB is forged from 1025 carbon steel to provide the soft feel that the category demands.

 

X Forged

With Titleist, Taylormade and Mizuno all responsible for a significant influx of new irons into the market over the last few months, it was only a matter of time before Callaway got in on the action. It's been nearly 5 years since the previous iteration of the X Forged iron hit the market and this new one will certainly get golfers talking.

In comparison with the Apex MB there are obvious physical differences but the X iron is certainly more forgiving and has slightly stronger lofts. While not as punishing as the blade, the X Forged is still designed for tour players and better amateurs. It's position in the Callaway line up- which now includes 10 different types of irons- is slotted between the Apex MB and the Apex Pro.
Callaway does not often lack for a clever technology story, but with the X Forged the sales pitch is limited to progressive CG (optimal trajectory), 20V grooves (more consistency/ fewer fliers) and the triple net forging process that creates what is said to be outstanding feel. Accompanied with some sole work to ensure desirable turf interaction and the X Forged is very much what you see is what you get and that is definitely not a bad thing.

The Callaway 2018 Apex MB and X Forged irons will have an RRP of £1049 and are set to go on sale from 26th of January.