The best golf irons for mid handicappers should be more forgiving while offering a combination of decent distance, speed, perfect spin, and friendly feel. Plus, a sleek design without having high lofts associated with irons for high handicappers.
Due to the availability of many brands in the market, confusion could play a major challenge for you when choosing the best golf iron for 7, 8,9,10, up to 17 handicappers. So, how do you identify the best item? Sit back as you go through our list. This article compiles the top-rated golf irons for mid handicappers. It should help you make an informed choice the next time you want to buy golf irons.
Table of Contents
Best Golf Irons for Mid Handicappers Review
TaylorMade Golf M5 Iron Set
If you are a golfer, you have probably heard of the TaylorMade golf brand. This brand is one of the most reputable on the market and combines a wide variety of features and quality to make its products industry-best. Do not be surprised if you find more than two items on this list from TaylorMade.
The TaylorMade Golf M5 iron set is a design for players with difficulty in hitting a decent distance. The iron comes with a stiffer structure by the head to offer a solution to many golfers’ concerns. If you are after versatility, you can smile as the TaylorMade M5 iron comes in two shaft materials. You can choose the less stiff graphite shaft or stiffer steel shaft.
Taylormade ensured this iron could help you hit faster speed by using the Inverted Cone Technology that features an ultra-thin face design. This construction will also give you great sound as you hit the M5 golf irons. Accordingly, the Speed Bridge technology enhances overall energy transfer from every swing to the ball, making every shot more accurate and efficient.
The low center of gravity on the M5 golf iron helps increase lunch angle and contributes to the ball speed- which is possible thanks to the fluted hosel. It is a perfect golf iron that comes with tungsten weighting to maximize power while offering more forgiveness. And though the M5 comes in a small package, you will not have a hard time using it.
Most players do not like face vibration because it tends to affect their overall game. However, the advanced HYBRAR compression damper used in the M5 iron set helps reduce this vibration, making it a more playable golf iron.
Though the M5 is considered one of the best TaylorMade irons for mid handicappers, it is also a hit among advanced golfers and beginners. Why? This is because it features the Cone Technology that offers straighter shots. The TaylorMade M5 perfectly combines forgiveness and power.
One of the most notable drawbacks of the M5 iron set is its price tag. Additionally, if you have used some top-rated golf irons before, you will notice that the M5 does not offer better control. However, other aspects may have paid off for this slight disadvantage.
Pros:
- Perfect for players who want to hit the ball with a decent distance
- Comes with tungsten weighting for a more refined size and design
- HYBRAR compression damper helps filter vibration for a more refined sound with every hit
Cons:
- Control may not be significant compared to other irons
- A bit pricey for beginners
Cleveland Golf 2018 Men’s Launcher CBX Iron Set
If you’re looking for the best irons for low handicap or mid-handicap players, the Cleveland Golf2018 Launcher CBX Iron Set is a good option. Many consider the Cleveland Golf 2018 Men’s Launcher CBX Iron Set to be one of the best golf club iron sets available for mid handicappers. With its Dual V sole grind, it feels a lot like the RTX-3 wedge. The center of gravity of this iron is closer to the middle of the face, improving consistency and feeling overall.
It has a microcavity that reduces the weight on the iron’s hossel and places it directly in the center of the face. The Cleveland Golf2018 Men’s Launcher CBX Iron Set’s shaft is made of graphite and comes in three flexes ranging from stiff to senior.
Is it, however, a perfect product? The Cleveland Golf2018 Men’s Launcher CBX IronSet is not exactly budget-friendly, even though it has an eye-catching design and is something that mid-handicap players can rely on.
It’s one of the best cavity back irons you’ll ever have the opportunity to use. Users have said that it allows them to get a beautiful flight out of the ball because of its forgiveness and great feel. If you’re having trouble with your current irons and think it’s time to upgrade, the Cleveland Golf 2018 Men’s Launcher CBX Iron Set is a great option.
Pros:
- Offers a Consistent feel
- Has a V-shaped progressive design
- Adaptable design
Cons:
- Isn’t the most cost-effective product in its class.
Callaway Golf 2020 Mavrik Max Iron Set
The Callaway Golf 2020 Mavrik Max Iron Set is known for having more spin and allowing users to fly their shots higher, making it an ideal mid-handicapper iron for many people. When the ball hits the greens, it has a lot of stopping power. Callaway used artificial intelligence for the first time in the development of this iron set. As a result, the 360 Face Cup has been improved and now flexes when it hits the ball. This is what gives the spins their overall consistency and speed.
This club is designed for total distance with a larger body and a deeper CG for increased forgiveness and easy launch. Long-distance through the bag is made possible by combining innovative ball speed technologies in the face and a high MOI construction. It also has a tungsten energy core consisting of tungsten weights infused into the iron to provide users with an optimal center of gravity for optimal launch, trajectory, and spin. The item is also known for its urethane microspheres, responsible for the iron’s ability to absorb unwanted vibration and provide a great sound and feel to users.
When compared to the brand’s standard iron, you’ll notice that this one has a better overall launch and spin rate. Is this, however, enough to persuade people to buy it? If you look closely, you’ll notice that, while it provides adequate distance, the standard Callaway golf irons provide better distance. It may be because of the softer loft. Furthermore, the Callaway Mavrik Max irons are somewhat bulky, which may or may not appeal to some golfers.
The Callaway Mavrik Max golf irons widely have high regard as game-changer. Regardless of the minor flaws, it is undeniable that these are the best golf irons for players with mid-handicaps. We strongly advise you to give the Callaway Mavrik Max a try if you’re having trouble getting the ball up in the air. It also provides adequate stopping power.
Pros:
- Flash Face Cup Technology for Fast Ball Speeds Across the Face is included.
- Weight infused with tungsten for increased launch, trajectory, and spin.
- 360-degree face cup technology.
Cons:
- Has a softer loft, which affects the ball’s distance.
TaylorMade Golf M6 Iron
The Taylor Made Golf M6 Irons are a good option if you’re looking for the best offset golf irons. What distinguishes the M6 from the M5 irons? If you ask Mat Bovee, TaylorMade’s senior manager of product creation, he’ll tell you that the M5 and M6 weren’t designed for the same golfers. M6 also has a louder, slightly higher-pitched sound than M5, which contributes to a solid, powerful feel off the face. Although we expected a more significant performance difference between M5 and M6, its size provides the off-centre stability inconsistent ball strikers seek.
For starters, the M6 was designed for players with a mid to high handicap. It is something that you might want to have if you’re looking for forgiveness and distance. The M5, on the other hand, was designed for mid-handicappers with a handicap of 15 or less. When comparing the M5 and M6 irons, you’ll notice that the M5 has a smaller design than the M6.
The M6 has a lot of the same features as the M5, but with some minor differences. It’s a little bigger, which may be a deal-breaker for some users. This design is for both mid and high handicappers, with more offset, a wider sole, and a higher loft. It’s critical to examine the features of the Taylormade M6 Irons to determine whether they’re a good fit for your needs. It features Speed Bridge technology, which aids in the efficient transfer of energy from your iron to your ball. The Speed Bridge is also where Taylormade’s fastest thru-sot speed pocket is present.
In terms of forgiveness, the M6 golf iron features a high moment of inertia and the ability to launch high. Finally, the M6 iron has a massive sweet spot that runs the length of the face. It’s without a doubt one of the best irons for trajectory and speed. What are the things, on the other hand, that you might not enjoy? It’s a little pricey, just like the M5.
Pros:
- High accuracy
- Designed to Allows better distance
- Has a high trajectory
- Equipped With Speed Bridge Technology
Cons:
- A bit expensive
Callaway Golf 2018 Men’s Rogue Irons Set
Callaway’s Rogue Iron Set combines reasonable distance and forgiveness. The technology that applies here is Face Cup and VFT technology and a flexible rim around the edge of the face. Even if you don’t hit the center, the company claims that this will allow the ball to reach high speeds. You also get a tungsten weighting, which gives the iron more forgiveness.
The Urethane Microspheres should also be an inclusion. That makes it possible to reduce vibration and provide a pleasant experience. Unfortunately, this can result in a reduction in ball speed and distance. So, don’t dismiss the possibility of a reward.
So, what exactly did we dislike about it? They don’t exist in reality. It has the potential to be one of the best iron golf clubs you can buy. The only disadvantage is that you can still hear a click when you hit something despite the vibration dampening technology.
Pros:
- Allows maintenance of speed when hitting the off-center ball.
- Tungsten weighting, which adds to the forgiving factor.
- Known for good range and speed
Cons:
- Lacks excellent Vibration dampening.
TaylorMade Golf P790 Iron Set
The Taylormade Golf P790 iron set has become so popular among golfers that it has been updated. It hasn’t changed much in terms of appearance. The new version appears to be a little cleaner. You’d probably say the updated version has a thinner face than the 2017 version, and it gives you a slight distance advantage over the older version. It gives you a noticeably faster ball speed right away, which you’ll notice right away.
Because of the lower center of gravity, the P790 has a low-profile tungsten weighting that allows you to hit harder and get the launch you want. It also has a 4140-face forged with a soft carbon steel body, giving you the distance you need as well as the forgiveness that many mid-handicaps players desire. The head is also equipped with ultra-light urethane foam that enhances overall comfort.
If you already own the 2017 model, the 2019 P790 model might not be worth it, given the price difference and the fact that the improvements aren’t exactly what you’re looking for.
Pros:
- Can hit the ball faster compared to the older P790.
- Lower center of gravity.
- Head is made of ultra-light urethane foam for a better feel.
Cons:
- Costs more than the original P790
Callaway Golf 2018 Men’s Rogue X Irons Set
It comes as no surprise that the Callaway 2018 Rogue X iron set has a high ranking as one of the best mid-range golf clubs.
The Callaway Golf 2018 Men’s Rogue X iron set is unique compared to other Callaway Rogue Irons. The Rogue X, for example, is longer and more profound than the original. It also combines a lower center of gravity to offer more forgiveness. This item has a higher offset hosel and a trailing edge on the sole.
However, the Rogue X golf iron takes some features from its predecessors, such as the 360-face cup, that enhances ball speed and distance. This feature will also help improve your accuracy and consistency even with off-center hits. Another notable aspect of the Callaway Golf 2018 Men’s Rogue X iron set is the addition of the Urethane Microspheres that removes vibration with hits and produces an excellent sound.
Compared to other Callaway golf irons, the Rogue golf iron set for men offers a decent distance. And since its price is in the same range as other Rogue irons, it tends to be a more popular golf iron for mid handicappers. As with many golf irons in this list, the Rogue X iron set does not show many drawbacks apart from the huge price tag that may put most mid-handicap golfers off. However, the general performance makes it a worthy investment.
Pros:
- Reduced vibration with every hit
- Offers a decent distance
- Offers more forgiveness compared to other Rouge models
Cons:
- More expensive
TaylorMade M4 Combo (Hybrid/Iron) Set
So, whom would we say needs the M4 iron set the most? If you are struggling with hitting the sweet spot, this is the suitable iron for you. Accordingly, it is also appropriate for beginners and low handicappers.
The TaylorMade M4 combo is perfect for low and mid handicappers because it comes in hybrid and iron set. It is a popular choice among golfers for its forgiveness. Accordingly, many golfers regard the M4 golf iron as one of the best golf irons for mid-handicappers due to a host of features.
In this TaylorMade golf iron, the Twist Face Technology adds more forgiveness, making it suitable for players who struggle with off-center hits. The Twist Face Technology will also make your shots straighter and more accurate. The M4 iron is a bit larger than the M3 iron. Additionally, the redesigned hammerhead slot in the Taylormade M4 iron allows you to make more mistakes than the M3 golf iron.
The M4 comes with a more prominent sweet spot, which helps keep the ball straight. Additionally, this golf iron set from TaylorMade is noticeably thinner and lighter than previous models. The slim design gives the iron a voluminous head and a more prominent sweet spot associated with the big clubface. It is also easy to tell if the ball made contact with the sweet spot when you hit the golf ball.
Although the TaylorMade M4 iron set is significantly superior to the M3, it tends to fall short of the MM5 and M6. Specifically, many players have concerns about its sound. However, its geocoustic sole design makes up for the drawback as the iron allows you to identify if you got the sweet spot.
Consequently, golfers have raised some observations while using the M4 iron set. First, the stock shaft is too light, making the iron feel a little whippy for some players. Additionally, some have indicated that the iron set may lack control when you have fast swing speed. The iron also comes with more spin, which may not be great for people struggling with the sweet spot. Lastly, despite the fact that Twist Face Technology reduces dispersion, the distance tends to decrease significantly, especially when you do not get the sweet spot.
Pros:
- Twist Face Technology for more forgiveness.
- Great sound when you hit the target
- Has 67% larger sweet spot than your M3
Cons:
- More spin with missed shots
- Tends to be a little whippy and light when using the stock shaft
Mizuno MP-20 Golf Iron Set Series (MP-20, MP-20 MMC, MP-20 HMB, MP-20 SEL)
Mizuno has made a name for itself as a Japanese brand in a variety of sports. Yes, golf is included. You may have considered the Mizuno MP-20 if you are looking for some of the best irons for a mid-handicapper. Accuracy, forgiveness, and speed are all attributes of these Mizuno golf irons.
The MP20 has a soft layer of copper behind the face, which sets it apart from the M-18. As a result, golfers will have a better understanding of the situation. Additionally, it features dual tungsten weighting that lowers the center of gravity and thus increases MOI. This is also why you get a decent launch when using the MP20 golf iron.
Also, you’ll notice that these irons are products of Grain Flow Forged Chromoly. This technology is known for producing the most durable forged material that gives users a consistent feel. Apart from the feel, the MP20 golf iron set also has the advantage of covering a considerable distance. Moreover, what is better is the fact that it will improve your shots even with off-center hits.
Despite being designed for mid-handicappers, the MP20 iron is also popular among advanced players, making it difficult to categorize it.
Pros:
- Offers a decent launch
- Provides great distance
- Offers more control
- Comes with more forgiveness
Cons:
- Hard to differentiate if it is for mid handicappers or advanced golfers
Cobra Golf 2019 F9 Men’s Speedback One Length Iron Set
The Cobra Golf 2019 Men’s Speedback offers forgiveness as well as excellent ball speed. It has a speed-back sole with a low center of gravity that allows the user to launch the ball higher and farther. You also get a forged E9 Power Shell Face, which increases accuracy by expanding the sweet spot on the face.
The design present in its technology uses aluminum, thermoplastic polyurethane, and acrylic foam to reduce vibration. These are lightweight materials that allowed the iron to have a softer and more responsive feel than most other irons on the market.
If there is a reason you will not like the F9, it is because there is not much of a difference between it and the F8. Overall, it offers superior technologies that will improve mid handicappers’ performance. It is impossible to deny that it is one of the best golf irons available today.
Pros:
- More significant sweet spot
- More extended range and higher launch
- Reduces vibration
Cons:
- No substantial improvement from the F8
TaylorMade 2017 M2 Men’s Golf Iron Set
Why bother with the TaylorMade 2017 M2 Men’s Golf Iron Set when there is the M3, M4, and so on? Do not be fooled to overlook this iron set. Even though the M2 has been on the market for three years, it remains a viable option, particularly when compared to other golf clubs. It is even capable of competing with some of the best new irons on the market.
The M2 golf iron is a distance-oriented iron set that boasts the longest in the game. Unfortunately, it is only available to those who have a high swing speed. However, the Taylormade M2’s advantage is that it is very forgiving, allowing you to hit a decent distance even if you do not get the sweet spot.
As much as it might not be the latest version of the TaylorMade iron sets, the M2 is a more forgiving club, making it one of the best golf clubs for weekend golfers.
Pros:
- Great for beginners and mid handicappers who want help with distance
- More forgiving even without hitting the sweet spot
- Is among the longest irons on the market
- Offers a high launch with every hit regardless of your swing speed
Cons:
- May not be as forgiving as other versions
Callaway Golf 2019 Apex Individual Iron
The Callaway Golf 2019 Apex Individual Iron is one of the best-forged irons on the market. It is also a suitable recommendation for players who want to hit a reasonable distance consistently with less spin.
The body is made of forged 1025 mild carbon steel that gives it a soft feel. It contains tungsten, which allows for a lower center of gravity and better flight. To add icing to the cake, it’s finished in stunning platinum chrome.
Because it is a high-tech club, it has a hefty price tag. If you want it, you will have to pay a little more. However, that should not worry you as you will reap from its enhanced technology to improve your game.
Pros:
- Body made of forged 1025 mild carbon steel.
- Lovely finish.
- Soft feel and a good range of motion.
Cons:
- Is costly
Titleist 718 AP3 Irons – (Steel) (Stiff Flex-4-AW, Right)
If you have played the Titleist AP2 and AP1, the AP3 will appeal to you because it combines feel and forgiveness. It allows mid-handicappers to enjoy a set that is both stylish and compact. Expect a grand launch and a lot of forgiveness when using the AP3. It also has a better feel and playability than the AP2 because it is easier to play with this iron. And, even if your ball speed isn’t great, it still gives you a lot of distance
The only thing we noticed is that when you use the AP2 longer irons, it makes a dull and hollow sound.
Pros:
- Offers Great forgiveness
- Allows you great distance hit
- Has a Decent launch
Cons:
- Longer irons have a dull sound.
Callaway Golf Men’s Apex CF16 Irons Set
The Callaway Golf Men’s Apex CF16 Iron Set is a popular choice among players looking for an excellent intermediate iron set. It has a good mix of playability and range. It includes cup 360 technology, which has revolutionized the way people think about ball speed. Even if you are slightly off-center, you can still hit good speed and distance, making it an excellent choice for many mid-handicap players.
Because of its advanced forging, it has a high-tech construction that provides an excellent feel. During the item`s manufacture, 1025 mild carbon steel is present, which gives its users a soft feel. Furthermore, it is unquestionably a stunning iron set. It’s probably the best golf irons for players with a 10 or even a 12 handicap.
Unfortunately, using the long irons is a bit of a challenge. If you want to use the longer irons, you should swing hard.
Pros:
- Provides reasonable distance when hit off-center.
- Has a pleasant feel
- Well balanced in terms of playability and range.
Cons:
- Needs hard swing when using longer irons.
TaylorMade Golf 2018 P790 Men’s Iron Set
The Taylor Made Golf 2018 P790 Set is so popular among golfers that a new version was released. The 2018 version had a thinner face than the 2017 version. It made use of advanced technology, which helped it become popular among golfers.
It’s considered one of the best intermediate irons due to its ability to help improve distance. It even includes tungsten weight to aid weight distribution in the club.
However, you may not like the fact that it is a little pricey. Furthermore, it is not something that novice golfers will enjoy. If you’re looking for your first iron set, you should look elsewhere.
Pros:
- Allows you to hit more distance
- An updated version of the P790 from 2017
- Has a Thinner face
Cons:
- Is costly
Tour Edge Golf Hot Launch 4 HL4 Iron Set
The Soft 431 stainless steel used in the Hot Launch 4 Iron set provides an excellent feel for all players. The undercut cavity in this iron gives you consistent power every time you hit the ball. This is also why the Tour Edge Golf Hot Launch 4 HL4 Iron Set is known for its forgiving nature.
The toe weight technology provides a much larger sweet spot for users and stability once the ball hits the iron. It also has a shallow face, which can help you launch the ball higher if that’s what you’re after. Though it’s a wonderful iron set overall, when struck, it makes a tin sound.
Pros:
- Launches the ball higher in the air
- Provides much larger sweet spot
- Offers great forgiveness
Cons:
- Produces tin sound when struck
How to Buy Good Golf Irons for Mid Handicappers
Do you know what to look for when buying the best golf iron for mid handicappers? Here are some suggestions:
Club Head Size and Design
A lot of things go into the iron to determine its clubhead size and design. Mid handicappers need a moderately sized iron head for more distance and the flexibility to allow you to work shots from side to side. Here are some design aspects to consider:
Forged golf irons
Forged is mainly used to show how the material is used to shape the clubhead. Forged golf irons are mostly better for low-handicappers looking for more shot-shaping and trajectory control features.
Cast irons
Cast golf irons come in more complex head designs due to a combination of different materials. Cast irons tend to more affordable than forged golf irons. Accordingly, you should consider cast iron if you want more forgiveness that comes with the bigger head size and design.
Offset hosel
You may want to consider a golf iron with an offset hosel if you are a slicer. This feature helps you strike the golf ball more squarely, reducing slice.
Shaft
Mid handicap golfers need shafts that fit their swing speed.
Many mid handicappers have moderate swing speed and may want a regular flex shaft. Finding the right shaft flex will let you return the iron to square when hitting the ball, therefore, improving accuracy.
Graphite shafts are best for mid handicappers because they will help you maximize swing speed. Golf irons with graphite shafts are lightweight compared to steel shafts. Lighter ions translate into more swing speed.
Sole design
To find the best golf iron for a mid handicapper, ensure that the club sole is wider than your largest finger. The larger the sole, the more forgiveness you will get. However, you will also have to sacrifice control. This should not be a concern, especially if you need more time to work on your swing.
Golf irons with wider soles are more game-improving.
Extra sweet spot
With a wider sweet spot, forgiveness, contact quality, and distance help are abundant. These are three aspects that mid handicappers should be looking for to improve their game. Golf irons with extra sweet spots offer more shot accuracy, even for off-center shots.
Iron set composition
It would be best if you considered how the iron composition overally affects your game. Carrying up to 14 clubs is possible. So, ensure each iron present enhances the game. Try to craft a set that helps you maximize distance and improve control.
Leading-edge
The leading edge is the part in an iron where it first enters the ground. Shots made with the leading edge are often thin, low, and weak. In that case, you may want the best golf irons with leading-edge that moves into the soil freely to allow the golf ball to have contact with the sweet spot.
Weighting
Weighting plays a significant role for mid handicappers. Perimeter weighting around the edges of the clubhead improves balance and more forgiveness. Weighting insole creates launch, carry, and distance.
Distance
Every golfer wants more distance. One of the most critical improvements your iron should offer is distance with every shot to ensure you do not hit more greens.
Feel
The feel is what the iron feels like when you strike the golf ball. This aspect has a psychological effect since you will know how the club should feel every time you hit the ball perfectly. The feel will guide you into how you should hit the golf ball, and this should also give you confidence.
Forgiveness
Low and mid-handicap golfers should focus more on forgiveness. You are likely to mishit the ball. A more forgiving golf iron will help you hit the sweet spot and tends to perfect your shots. A club’s forgiveness can be the difference between you hitting many strokes per round.
Control
If you are just starting to hit the ball hard, you will find out that control becomes an issue. Most golf irons for mid handicappers come with an offset hosel and a cavity back to help you with control to reduce slices and hooks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a mid handicapper?
A mid handicapper is a golf player with handicaps of between 7 and 18. This means shooting in the 80s every round or breaking 90 with scores between 83 and 92. The range may be vast, but the goal is often to ensure you break 80 0r 90 consistently.
When should I get a new golf iron?
This should be a personal preference thing. However, if you feel like the iron is no longer offering you the game improvement you want, or if you do not love the club anymore, buy another one.
Accordingly, you should buy a new golf iron if yours is old and out of date. You may want a new design that launches the ball higher, and you can only get it if you keep buying the latest versions. However, this should pressure you into replacing your iron because most iron manufacturers tend to use wordplay for marketing without any improvements in features or technology.
Conclusion
Do you know the golf iron you should be playing? Even for mid-handicap golfers, the choice to buy an iron will mainly depend on preference and skill level. Looking at the items in this article, you can easily find the right golf iron for different situations. You should compare similar golf clubs before making up your mind. That is the only way to determine the best golf iron for your game.
Lastly, try to avoid golf irons labeled Tour, Pro, or Tour Preferred. These sets tend to be more suited for low handicappers and professional golfers. These are not the best investments considering your skill level. You will get there with every step you make. For now, stick to golf irons for mid handicappers.