Callaway's Apex MB Tour Raw has been one of the most-played irons on tour this year, and you can now order it. The catch is that there are not many sets.
What it is
A modern muscle-back blade. Callaway spent about two years on it, starting from the 2018 Apex MB and a Japan-market X Forged prototype, and built it with tour players including Min Woo Lee, Si Woo Kim and Nicolai Højgaard. Sam Burns moved into it from a cavity back.
The design trick is under the club. The sole is unusually wide for a blade, then has material removed so it moves through the turf like a much narrower one. The heads are left raw, so they will rust and patina over time.
| Club | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | PW |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loft | 23° | 26° | 29° | 33° | 37° | 41° | 45° |
$1,599.99 for 4-PW. Right-handed. Orders from August 4 in limited quantities.
Who should buy it
A blade gives you precise feedback and control of trajectory. It gives you very little help when you miss the middle. Reviewers who liked it suggest good amateurs, into single figures, can play it. Very few golfers above that will score better with it.
The verdict
Skip, unless you're a strong player.
If you hit the middle consistently and want a blade, this is a well-made one, and it will be hard to find. If not, the same money buys a fitting and a set that forgives your misses.
Sources: Callaway product page (price, lofts, availability); Golf.com (4 August); Amateur Golf (development and tour players).