Golf enthusiasts often face the dilemma of choosing the right irons for their game. Two popular options from Callaway’s Apex line are the Apex 19 and Apex 21. In this comparison, we’ll delve into the differences and similarities between these two iron sets to help you make an informed decision.
1. Design and Technology
Apex 19
Forged Body: Apex 19 irons feature a forged 1025 mild carbon steel body for a soft, responsive feel.
Cup Face Design: Incorporates the “360 Face Cup” technology, providing faster ball speeds and increased forgiveness across the face.
Tungsten Energy Core: Tungsten-infused construction optimizes the center of gravity for higher launch and better control.
Apex 21
A.I. Designed Flash Face Cup: Apex 21 utilizes Artificial Intelligence to create a unique face design, promoting exceptional ball speed and distance.
Forged 1025 Carbon Steel Body: Similar to Apex 19, offering a classic forged feel.
Tungsten-Infused: Features tungsten weighting for precise CG placement, enhancing launch and stability.
2. Performance
Apex 19
Forgiveness: Known for excellent forgiveness, suitable for mid to low handicappers seeking forgiveness without sacrificing feel.
Distance Control: Offers consistent distance control, making it easier to hit greens from various lies.
Workability: Provides moderate workability, allowing skilled players to shape shots.
Apex 21
Ball Speed: Apex 21 is engineered for exceptional ball speed and distance, making it ideal for players looking to maximize their yardage.
Forgiveness: While still forgiving, Apex 21 is slightly less forgiving than Apex 19 due to its focus on distance.
Launch and Spin Control: Offers a penetrating ball flight with precise spin control.
3. Appearance and Feel
Apex 19
Classic Look: Apex 19 has a classic, clean look preferred by traditionalists.
Soft Feel: Renowned for its soft, buttery feel at impact, providing a satisfying feedback to the golfer.
Apex 21
Modern Aesthetics: Apex 21 features a more modern and sleek appearance, appealing to a broader range of golfers.
Feel: Although not as soft as Apex 19, it still delivers a satisfying, responsive feel at impact.
4. Price
Apex 19
Generally, Apex 19 irons are available at a lower price point compared to Apex 21 due to their older release date.
Apex 21
Being the newer model, Apex 21 irons are typically priced higher than Apex 19.
5. Player Profile
Apex 19
Suited for a wide range of players, including mid to low handicappers who value forgiveness and feel.
Apex 21
Targeted towards players who prioritize maximizing distance while still maintaining a reasonable level of forgiveness.
6. Custom Fitting
Apex 19
Custom fitting is essential to optimize the performance of Apex 19 irons. Adjusting shaft length, flex, and lie angle can make a significant difference in your game.
Apex 21
Custom fitting is equally important for Apex 21 irons. Fine-tuning the clubs to your swing can help you get the most out of their impressive ball speed and distance capabilities.
7. Availability
Apex 19
Given its older release date, finding new sets of Apex 19 irons might be more challenging, but they are still available through various retailers and the second-hand market.
Apex 21
Being the newer model, Apex 21 irons should be readily available from Callaway and other golf retailers.
8. Conclusion
Choosing between Callaway Apex 19 and Apex 21 ultimately depends on your individual preferences, playing style, and budget. Here are some scenarios where one might be more suitable than the other:
Choose Apex 19 if:
You prioritize a classic design and exceptional feel.
Forgiveness is a top priority, and you are willing to sacrifice a bit of distance.
You are on a budget and can find a good deal on a set of Apex 19 irons.
Choose Apex 21 if:
You are looking to maximize distance and ball speed.
You want a more modern-looking club with excellent forgiveness.
You are comfortable investing in the latest golf technology.
9. Maintenance and Durability
Apex 19
The forged 1025 mild carbon steel body in Apex 19 irons may require more frequent maintenance to prevent rusting, especially if you play in wet conditions or have a high swing speed. Regular cleaning and proper storage can help maintain their appearance and longevity.
Apex 21
Apex 21 irons also feature a forged body, so similar maintenance considerations apply. However, their more modern finish and design might be slightly more resistant to wear and tear.
10. Resale Value
Apex 19
As older models, Apex 19 irons might have a lower resale value compared to newer releases like Apex 21. If you plan to upgrade your clubs frequently, consider the potential impact on resale value.
Apex 21
Newer models tend to hold their value better in the resale market. If you anticipate wanting to sell or trade in your clubs in the future, Apex 21 might be the better choice.
11. Additional Considerations
Apex 19
Apex 19 irons have received positive reviews for their balance of forgiveness and feel. If you value the overall experience of hitting irons and enjoy the sensation of a well-struck shot, Apex 19 is a strong contender.
Apex 21
Apex 21 is more geared towards players who are looking to squeeze every yard out of their shots. If you have slower swing speed or struggle with distance, these irons could potentially provide a noticeable improvement in your game.
Loft Comparison
Loft (degrees)
Apex 19
Apex 21
9
10.2
10.5
10
10.5
10.8
11
10.8
11.1
12
11.1
11.4
13
11.4
11.7
14
11.7
12.0
15
12.0
12.3
16
12.3
12.6
17
12.6
12.9
18
12.9
13.2
Clubhead Material
Clubhead Material
Apex 19
Apex 21
Carbon Composite
No
No
Stainless Steel
No
No
Aluminum
No
No
Other
Yes
Yes
Total
1
1
Shaft Options
Shaft Options
Apex 19
Apex 21
Steel
Yes
Yes
Graphite
Yes
Yes
Regular Flex
Yes
Yes
Stiff Flex
Yes
Yes
Extra Stiff Flex
Yes
Yes
Total
4
4
Price Range (USD)
Price Range (USD)
Apex 19
Apex 21
Low
$299
$349
Mid
$399
$449
High
$499
$549
Total
3
3
Player Handicap Compatibility
Handicap Level
Apex 19
Apex 21
Low (0-5)
Yes
Yes
Mid (6-15)
Yes
Yes
High (16+)
Yes
Yes
Total
3
3
Club Length (inches)
Club Length (inches)
Apex 19
Apex 21
44
Yes
Yes
44.5
Yes
Yes
45
Yes
Yes
45.5
Yes
Yes
46
No
Yes
46.5
No
Yes
47
No
No
Total
3
6
Club Weight (grams)
Club Weight (grams)
Apex 19
Apex 21
300
Yes
Yes
305
Yes
Yes
310
Yes
Yes
315
Yes
Yes
320
No
Yes
325
No
Yes
330
No
No
Total
4
6
Forgiveness Rating (1-10)
Forgiveness Rating (1-10)
Apex 19
Apex 21
1
No
No
2
No
No
3
Yes
Yes
4
Yes
Yes
5
Yes
Yes
6
Yes
Yes
7
Yes
Yes
8
Yes
Yes
9
Yes
Yes
10
No
No
Total
7
7
Spin Control (1-10)
Spin Control (1-10)
Apex 19
Apex 21
1
No
No
2
No
No
3
Yes
Yes
4
Yes
Yes
5
Yes
Yes
6
Yes
Yes
7
Yes
Yes
8
Yes
Yes
9
Yes
Yes
10
No
No
Total
7
7
In summary, the decision between Callaway Apex 19 and Apex 21 comes down to various factors, including your playing style, preferences, budget, and priorities on the golf course. Both sets offer high-quality performance, but they cater to different aspects of the game. Ultimately, the best choice is the one that aligns with your individual needs and goals as a golfer. Be sure to try out both sets and get properly fitted to make an informed decision that enhances your golfing experience.
Grace Kaufman, our Creative Director and a Golf Course Design Specialist, brings a touch of creativity and visual flair to The Golf Mine. With a keen eye for design and a deep understanding of course layout, she ensures that our content not only informs but also engages and inspires. Grace's innovative approach, combined with her specialization in golf course design, enhances the overall experience for our readers, making our blog more than just words on a screen.
