Every golfer needs to have a good golf iron sometime in their life to increase their chances of hitting each ball in a more powerful way so it will land near a hole. Since irons need to be smaller and shorter than drivers and have a steel or iron head with a flat face and a lot of grooves in general, the company Callaway has become known worldwide for that type of club.
However, golf irons come in different variations, so it can be quite confusing to choose the right one for your skill level and preferences. Should their shaft be graphite or steel? Which is better: forged or cast? That’s why we’re here to present some of the best Callaway irons so you’ll know for sure what to buy.
Table of Contents
Best Callaway Irons Review
Callaway Golf 2020 Women’s Mavrik Max Individual Iron
Despite golf being a unisex sport, the fact remains that most female golfers need a specific type of product like the Callaway Golf 2020 Women’s Mavrik Max Individual Iron to match their height and strength.
This golf iron can consistently increase the speed of each ball you hit because of artificial intelligence (A.I.) technology, which is the first time from the brand. That’s also the reason for the unique face design that can improve spin. Meanwhile, to stay precise, you can find the center of gravity (CG) easily through the weights infused with tungsten.
If your golf club set is missing specific types of irons, this product can complete it because of its 5 and 6 options. Also, it’s extremely lightweight so an average woman can swing it effortlessly. It can even guarantee comfort with its well-designed grip.
The incredible lightness of this golf iron has a downside, though. It’s obviously not ideal for golfers who prefer more weight from their irons. It’s a matter of preference.
Pros:
- Specifically designed for women
- Enhanced ball spin and speed
- Can help you find the center of gravity easily
- Great addition to some sets of golf clubs
- Maximum comfort from the extra-light structure
Cons:
- Too lightweight for some golfers
Callaway Golf 2018 Men’s X Forged Ultility Individual Iron
Promising forged precision, better performance, a higher level of control, forgiveness, and further distances, the Callaway Golf 2018 Men’s X Forged Utility Individual Iron highlights three specific features.
To ensure forged precision and better performance, this golf iron has its CG closely designed with the face’s centermost part for faster and higher balls that can maintain a straight path. Meanwhile, to make sure there are forgiveness and control, the insert is also infused with tungsten to enhance the moment of inertia (MOI).
And, to launch the ball to further distances, the Face Cup design makes the ball move faster even if your hit isn’t exactly at the center of the club’s face.
Since this product doesn’t come with other golf clubs, it can be an excellent addition to existing sets. However, sets made for female golfers might not be compatible with this iron.
Pros:
- Higher precision from the forged design
- Can perform better than standard golf irons
- Further landing spot for each ball
- Straighter path for higher launches
- Improved moment of inertia (MOI)
Cons:
- Might be too heavy and/or too tall for some female golfers
Callaway Golf Men’s XR OS Irons Set
If you’re still trying to get the hang of golfing, the Callaway Golf Men’s XR OS Irons Set is a good option because you’ll be able to constantly hit the ball with it, improving your confidence on the course.
As expected from a Callaway iron, this one also features the 360 Face Cup design for high-speed balls. Its CG is even placed lower on the back to guarantee more distance. In addition, its wider soles aim for better forgiveness to help increase precision no matter how you hit the ball.
This golf iron can be an effective way to convince someone to play the sport because of its bigger sweet spot for easier hits. It can speed up one’s progress while training so they can perform like a pro in no time. Additionally, off-center hits can still make the ball fly straight toward the hole.
Unfortunately, buying this product can be very confusing. It either comes separately or in a set. Be more careful when you place your order.
Pros:
- More consistent performance
- Lower placement of the CG
- Better forgiveness for more precise hits
- More coverage for the sweet spot
- Straight hits despite off-center impact
Cons:
- Higher chance of you buying the wrong number of irons
Callaway Steelhead XR Irons Set
An award-winning product, the Callaway Steelhead XR Irons Set has a unique form through advanced technology to take performance up a notch, as far as speed, control, distance, and forgiveness are concerned.
The Face Cup design is already a given for higher ball speed regardless of whether you’ll hit it right at the center or not. Unlike some models from the same brand, though, this one has a certain shock absorber infused with steel to minimize vibration for the sake of comfort.
And, as most golf irons are relying on the shaft’s material to stay lightweight, this particular model includes a hollow hosel to really reduce the overall weight of the club.
Because of the range of distance this golf iron can guarantee, it’s perfect for senior players. Its level of forgiveness is definitely enough for anyone to enjoy the sport despite limited experience. Another reason why it’s good for most adults is how affordable it is compared to other well-known sets.
You have to be extra careful as a buyer, though, because you’re more likely to choose a wrong variation of this product due to the number of options present.
Pros:
- Superior quality acknowledged by an award-giving body
- Extra speed on the ball regardless of the quality of your hits
- Weaker vibration for comfort
- Lightweight despite the heavy-duty shaft
- More affordable than most golf irons
Cons:
- Likelihood of receiving another variation by mistake
Callaway Golf 2020 Mavrik Max Iron Set
Making sure that each ball you hit will fly high enough for more successful launches, the Callaway Golf 2020 Mavrik Max Iron Set is just like the women’s set we’ve discussed earlier. However, this time, we’re talking about a product that’s highly recommended for everyone regardless of their gender.
Again, this particular model from Callaway uses A.I. technology that’s not included in the previous models. That’s why a lot of loyal Callaway users have switched to newer golf irons. This product also has weights containing tungsten to ensure precision and speed.
Just know that in some cases, buyers have received incomplete sets despite picking the right options during the buying process. So don’t forget to check the package carefully if you’re going to choose this golf iron. Quality-wise, you really can’t find anything bad about this product.
Pros:
- Higher success rate when you launch the ball
- Great for both men and women
- Uses advanced technology
- Precise performance
- Promotes more speed
Cons:
- Missing items that should be included in the set
Callaway X HOT Iron Set
An all-around product because of its forgiveness, distance, feel, and sound, the Callaway X HOT Iron Set is a must-have. It’s fast and long, which has a lot to do with its forgiving properties. It can also enhance the speed of the ball to propel it further. It even has a certain “sound” when you hit the ball, proving its excellent feel.
Speaking of feel, this benefit is perfect for handicapped golfers who are looking for more comfortable irons. It’s made possible by the extra-soft grip around the shaft. This golf iron also has a first-class quality to stay durable despite heavy use.
Unlike other Callaway models, however, this golf iron doesn’t feature the special Face Cup. That’s why there are better options out there if you’re prioritizing long irons.
Pros:
- Packed with various benefits
- Very forgiving
- Comfortable feel
- Gives a sound that can make you more confident as you hit the ball
- Ideal for handicapped players
Cons:
- Not long enough compared to other golf irons
Callaway Golf 2019 Big Bertha Iron Set
One of the most popular models of the brand, the Callaway Golf 2019 Big Bertha Iron Set makes your launches as easy as 1-2-3. That’s because of the newly updated design of the suspended energy core for easier launching, longer distances, better sound, and more comfortable feel. Another reason why this iron is known for its distance is its Face Cup technology.
What we can’t get enough of, however, is the unique dark look of this golf iron. It has a pure black color mostly because of its coating through physical vapor deposition (PVD).
With all of its features combined, this golf iron can reduce vibration caused by impact. You’ll have smoother swings as well with this product.
It’s not surprising, however, that this uniquely designed golf iron can be too expensive. It can also be ineffective for some golfers when they swing it because of its grip. But, most of the time, that’s just because of receiving the wrong set of clubs.
Pros:
- World-famous golf irons from Callaway
- Super-easy launching
- Cool appearance
- Doesn’t vibrate much when it hits a ball
- Smooth swings
Cons:
- Too expensive for some people
- Issues with the grip
- Incorrect items in the package
Callaway Golf 2019 Apex Irons Set
Here’s a forged iron for impressive distances. The Callaway Golf 2019 Apex Irons Set is a great choice if you’re not strong enough to increase power on your swings.
The forged body made of carbon steel is extremely durable, but it’s soft enough for a more comfortable feel. Even better, it contains urethane microspheres, a first time for a Callaway golf iron. Meanwhile, to improve your shots, the VFT Face can enhance the ball’s spin.
At first, you might not get used to the higher flight of the ball, but you’ll appreciate its significant impact in terms of distance. The comfortable feel will consistently help you with your shots.
Some buyers got their orders wrong, though, so make a purchase more carefully. You might get a single golf iron instead of a set or vice versa.
Pros:
- Winning distance
- Adds power to your swings
- Durable construction
- Soft and smooth to touch
- Higher ball flight
Cons:
- Wrong purchase
Callaway Golf 2018 Men’s Rogue Individual Iron
Combining three crucial factors namely functionality, distance, and precision, the Callaway Golf 2018 Men’s Rogue Individual Iron will provide you with better feel and performance.
This golf iron also combines two important features which are the VFT Face and the 360 Face Cup for a much faster ball. And, to help you control your swings and improve your launch, the internal standing wave is metal injection molded (MIM’d). Also, let’s not forget about the urethane microspheres which are aiming to improve the feel.
Whether the price is too expensive or affordable enough for you, the quality makes this golf iron worth buying. Its shaft is so durable that it won’t twist no matter how much you play.
This particular model isn’t too special for some golfers, however. It’s probably too similar with other Callaway irons.
Pros:
- Combines practicality, range, and accuracy
- Includes modern features
- More controlled swings
- Better feel
- Keeps your launches straight
Cons:
- Not exactly different than other Callaway options
Callaway Golf 2020 Rogue X Iron Sets and Combo Sets
More lightweight than the previous Rogue, the Callaway Golf 2020 Rogue X Iron and Combo Sets are also longer and have more powerful lofts for maximum distance. However, they still have the VFT and Face Cup features for speed as well as the MIM’d part for control and the urethane microspheres for comfort.
Because of its length, range, and performance, this golf iron is highly recommended for senior golfers. Players who haven’t experienced long-distance shots yet are delightfully surprised with its range. Another reason why it’s ideal for seniors is the club’s balance, contributing to a better feel.
Despite the advantages of this golf iron, however, some golfers still prefer the previous designs of Callaway.
Pros:
- Lighter structure
- Stronger and longer for higher and straighter launches
- Includes the signature features of the previous Rogue and other Callaway golf irons
- Comfortable enough for seniors
- Better balance
Cons:
- Can’t beat the quality of some older Callaway golf irons
How to Choose Good Callaway Irons
Type
Forged
With just one piece of steel, a forged iron can be constructed by making it malleable through heat. To achieve the shape and details designed by the manufacturer, the metal softened by heat is pressed before the outlines and textures are formed by machine or hand.
The whole process definitely takes more time to finish, but the meticulousness of every phase or step leads to a golf iron that’s more or less perfect. That’s why forged irons usually have better blades and grooves. They’re also generally the more compact ones to boost control.
Since the softness of heated steel isn’t exactly gone after the process, it makes the golf iron more comfortable to hold and swing. A forged clubhead can also be adjusted easily if you want to customize the loft and other features.
Because of the exceptional craftsmanship behind forged golf irons, they’re ideal for advanced players. There’s another reason, though. Pros are more accurate with their shots, so they’re less likely to hit the ball off-center. A forged clubhead will only make it harder for beginners who still can’t master proper contact with the ball.
Cast
Just like the process for forged golf irons, casting also involves heating the metal. However, the metal is heated longer at higher temperatures until it transforms into a liquid state. That’s because it needs to be molded instead of pressed.
The consistency of the process lowers the chances of factory or manufacturing defects. The advantage is more on the manufacturer’s side, though, because of the massive number of irons produced every single day. It’s also easier for the company to innovate since they can just design molds with unique shapes and details.
The mass production of cast irons makes this variation ideal for young and old golfers of all shapes and sizes. It’s also great for all genders and skill levels.
Shaft
Graphite
Because of the lightness of graphite shafts unlike steel ones, your speed while swinging will be so much faster, which can enhance distance. It can also dampen vibrations as soon as you make contact with the ball. That’s why it’s more effective for golfers who always experience pain or discomfort on their hands, shoulders, or arms.
The higher flex of graphite shafts is a double-edged sword, though. While it’s beneficial for golfers with perfectly calculated swings, other players who can’t master their movements yet will only miss their hits more and more.
Graphite shafts are also much more expensive than the steel type. They can increase the price of a golf iron set, which can be a bummer if you can only use a few items.
Steel
Surprisingly, as graphite shafts are dominating the market, a lot of golfers actually prefer vibrations that are strong enough to fully reach their hands. Those players already have enough experience to successfully use vibrations as a form of helpful feedback. Steel shafts can make that happen with their heavier structure.
Aside from the fact that some golfers can analyze their performance better with steel shafts, they can also improve their control if they already have a fast swing. And, for people who are looking for cheaper golf irons, they should consider options with steel shafts first.
As expected, off-center hits can be really painful with steel shafts because of the powerful vibration. The added weight can also take a toll on your joints and muscles. Heavier shafts can affect distance as well.
Hybrid
This type of iron shaft combines graphite and steel. It’s quite rare, though, because it still contains more steel. The graphite part is only at the tip most of the time.
The reason why steel is used for the shaft’s length is to make it sturdier for better control while launching the ball. Meanwhile, the graphite part is for a little speed boost for more distance even for just a few yards. It can also reduce the vibrations without eliminating the feedback entirely.
Back
Blade
Also called a muscle back, this design nowadays is technically an improvement on the traditional blade irons. Older blades are much thinner with limited forgiveness while the newer ones are thicker without the bulky look.
Because of their thinner structure, muscle backs can enhance vibrations for feedback. They’re effective for training since you can experiment with different techniques as you analyze your every move.
The downside? Blades are usually more expensive because of the meticulous manufacturing process involved. They’re also less forgiving compared to cavity backs, which hugely contributes to inconsistent performances.
Cavity
Specifically designed to have more forgiveness than blades, cavity backs are hollow and definitely much thicker. The carved design is to ensure higher speeds.
Since cavity backs make clubheads bigger, the sweet spot has more coverage as well. It can significantly increase precision.
And, with a lower CG, the ball’s flight becomes higher. Handicapped golfers will be more confident while playing because of their consistency.
Obviously, golfers who prefer more feedback won’t find cavity backs helpful. It’s not the best option for pros.
Center of Gravity
Shorter Irons
CG is all about loft or flight. However, it depends on the iron’s length. Shorter golf irons within the range 6 to 9 have their CG in the front section to stay accurate. Their angle is sharper for easier hits. They prioritize precision to help beginners perform and enjoy the sport. For experienced golfers, though, they need something else since they have other priorities while playing.
Longer Irons
For 3 to 5 golf irons, their CG is in the back for a higher launch despite the flatter angle designed for a straighter path. This is important for advanced golfers who can already master their hits and just want to be more competitive by ensuring more distance.
Conclusion
Most golfers need more comfortable golf irons, so we specifically recommend the Callaway Steelhead XR Irons Set. It’s an award-winning option because of its speed, lightness, and vibration dampener despite using steel, which a win-win since that type of metal can enhance control, balance, and durability. Its combination of comfort and performance makes it a good choice for all skill levels.
Choosing the perfect Callaway golf iron for you isn’t too hard. Every product from the brand features world-class quality. However, since each golfer has different preferences, just consider a few factors like the construction type, shaft, back, and CG.