Choosing the right set of golf irons can greatly impact your performance on the course. Two popular options in the market are the TaylorMade P770 and the Callaway Apex Pro. In this detailed comparison, we’ll break down the key features and differences between these two iron sets to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Construction:
1. TaylorMade P770:
- The P770 irons from TaylorMade are known for their forged construction, providing a soft and responsive feel.
- They feature a compact cavity-back design with a thinner topline, appealing to low to mid-handicap players.
- The SpeedFoam technology is used to enhance feel and sound while improving the performance of the irons.
- Tungsten weighting in the long irons (3-7) increases forgiveness and launch, while short irons (8-AW) focus on precision and control.
2. Callaway Apex Pro:
- Callaway’s Apex Pro irons are also forged, designed to offer a combination of feel and workability.
- These irons have a classic shape with a slightly larger cavity than the P770, catering to better players.
- The tungsten-infused, multi-material construction helps in optimizing ball flight and forgiveness.
- Urethane microspheres are placed in the head to enhance sound and feel while maintaining performance.
Performance:
1. TaylorMade P770:
- The P770 irons are known for their distance control and consistency, making them suitable for players looking to shape shots.
- The SpeedFoam technology provides a solid feel while dampening unwanted vibrations.
- Forgiveness is moderate, with a focus on workability and shot-shaping capabilities.
2. Callaway Apex Pro:
- Apex Pro irons are designed to offer a high level of control and shot-shaping ability, making them ideal for skilled players.
- They provide a soft and responsive feel at impact, allowing for precise distance control.
- Forgiveness is less than the P770, but the trade-off is enhanced workability and feedback.
Appearance and Feel:
1. TaylorMade P770:
- P770 irons have a clean, compact appearance with minimal offset, preferred by traditionalists.
- The forged construction contributes to a soft and satisfying feel at impact.
- They have a thinner topline, providing a sleek and confident look at address.
2. Callaway Apex Pro:
- Apex Pro irons offer a classic, timeless look with a slightly larger head and minimal offset.
- The forged construction ensures a responsive and consistent feel.
- The chrome finish adds to the aesthetics, giving them a premium appearance.
Price:
1. TaylorMade P770:
- Typically, P770 irons are priced in the mid to high range, making them an investment for serious golfers.
2. Callaway Apex Pro:
- Apex Pro irons are also positioned in the mid to high price range, reflecting their premium quality and performance.
Customization and Fitting:
1. TaylorMade P770:
- TaylorMade offers a range of customization options for their P770 irons, allowing you to choose shafts, grips, and lie angles that suit your swing.
- Getting properly fitted for P770 irons can help maximize their performance, especially for players seeking consistency and distance control.
2. Callaway Apex Pro:
- Callaway also provides customization options for the Apex Pro irons, including various shaft and grip choices.
- A custom fitting session is highly recommended to ensure the irons match your swing characteristics and preferences, optimizing precision and feel.
Durability:
1. TaylorMade P770:
- P770 irons are built to be durable and withstand the rigors of regular play.
- The forged construction and premium materials contribute to their longevity.
2. Callaway Apex Pro:
- Apex Pro irons are designed with durability in mind, but like any forged iron, they may show signs of wear and tear over time with frequent use.
Warranty and Customer Support:
1. TaylorMade P770:
- TaylorMade typically offers a standard manufacturer’s warranty on their P770 irons, which covers manufacturing defects.
- Their customer support is known for being responsive and helpful in addressing any issues or questions regarding their products.
2. Callaway Apex Pro:
- Callaway also provides a manufacturer’s warranty for their Apex Pro irons, ensuring they are free from defects in materials and workmanship.
- Callaway’s customer support has a strong reputation for providing assistance and addressing customer concerns promptly.
Resale Value:
1. TaylorMade P770:
- TaylorMade clubs, including the P770 irons, often hold decent resale value in the golf club market due to the brand’s popularity and reputation.
2. Callaway Apex Pro:
- Callaway clubs, including the Apex Pro irons, also tend to retain good resale value, especially among golfers who appreciate the performance of Callaway products.
Club Type Comparison
| Feature | P770 | Apex Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Club Type | Iron | Iron |
| Player Type | Mid to Low Handicappers | Low Handicappers |
| Material | Forged Carbon Steel | Forged 1025 Carbon Steel |
| Forgiveness | Moderate | Low |
| Feel | Soft | Soft and Precise |
| Workability | Good | Excellent |
| Distance Control | Consistent | Exceptional |
| Launch | Mid-High | Mid |
| Price | $$$ | $$$$ |
| Availability | Widely Available | Limited Editions |
| Shaft Options | Various | Custom Shaft Options |
Loft Comparison
| Loft (Degrees) | P770 | Apex Pro |
|---|---|---|
| 3 Iron | 19 | 20 |
| 4 Iron | 21.5 | 23 |
| 5 Iron | 24 | 26 |
| 6 Iron | 27 | 29 |
| 7 Iron | 31 | 33 |
| 8 Iron | 35 | 37 |
| 9 Iron | 40 | 41 |
| PW | 45 | 45 |
| GW | 50 | 50 |
| SW | 55 | 55 |
Shaft Options
| Shaft Model | P770 | Apex Pro |
|---|---|---|
| True Temper Dynamic Gold | Standard | Standard |
| Project X LZ | Available as an upgrade option | Available as an upgrade option |
| KBS Tour | Available as an upgrade option | Available as an upgrade option |
| Nippon Modus 3 | Available as an upgrade option | Available as an upgrade option |
| Fujikura Ventus | Available as an upgrade option | Available as an upgrade option |
| Mitsubishi Tensei | Available as an upgrade option | Available as an upgrade option |
| Aldila Rogue | Available as an upgrade option | Available as an upgrade option |
| UST Mamiya Recoil | Available as an upgrade option | Available as an upgrade option |
| Graphite Shafts | Not available | Not available |
Performance Comparison
| Performance Metric | P770 | Apex Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Ball Speed | Moderate | High |
| Launch Angle | Mid-High | Mid |
| Spin | Moderate | Low |
| Shot Shaping | Good | Excellent |
| Feel | Soft | Soft and Precise |
| Accuracy | Good | Excellent |
| Control | Decent | Exceptional |
| Distance | Good | Excellent |
| Consistency | Consistent | Very Consistent |
| Shot Feedback | Clear | Precise |
Price and Availability
| Configuration | P770 Price Range | Apex Pro Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 3-PW (8 Irons) | $1,199 – $1,399 | $1,299 – $1,499 |
| Individual Irons | $150 – $180 | $180 – $200 |
| Custom Fitting | Available | Available |
| Availability | Widely Available | Limited Editions |
Final Thoughts:
Choosing between the TaylorMade P770 and Callaway Apex Pro comes down to your specific needs as a golfer. If you prioritize forgiveness, distance, and a soft feel with some shot-shaping capability, the P770 might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you’re a skilled player who values control, workability, and a responsive feel, the Apex Pro could be the right fit for your game.
Ultimately, it’s essential to try both sets of irons on the course or during a fitting session to determine which one aligns with your playing style and preferences. Regardless of your choice, investing in a set of irons that suits your game can significantly improve your performance and enjoyment on the golf course.
