OK, so why are the Epic irons so expensive? Well, Callaway basically gave their head of R&D the opportunity to build an iron where cost was no barrier to the end result.
The heads feature a high-grade, lightweight and strong cast-steel construction that stiffens the body, particularly in the top line and sole, allowing the face to take on more impact load.
The CG (centre of gravity) position in each head is precisely and individually managed via a new injection process using a dense, heavy, tungsten powder.
And there are some areas where these irons excel when it comes to the performance. A little bit more ball speed and a bit more distance.
There is a little less loft on the Epic 7-iron at 30˚ compared to the JPX900 at 31˚.
But there was very little to split them in terms of the launch height and descent so I don’t think it would be an issue getting the Epics to stop on the green.
Callaway Epic irons review – NCG verdict
You can see where the extra cost is going with these irons in terms of the way they look, feel and perform.
We’re talking about seven yards more carry which for some could be the difference between hitting a 6- or 7-iron.
For me I’d normally hit a 6-iron to a 165-yard pin but I could be tempted to pull out and Epic 7-iron for that number when out on the course.
Does that make these irons worth nearly £1,000 more for a set? No, of course it doesn’t. But if I could afford it and wanted the best set of irons money could buy, I’d definitely be considering these.
People with lots of money may want the best gear they can get and there’s nothing wrong with that.
If I was advising someone about a value for money purchase, I wouldn’t be recommending the Epic irons. But Callaway are not aiming these at people who are looking for a bargain.
They are trying to get a slice of the premium market where brands like PXG and XXIO are currently doing well. If you can afford the Epic irons then buy them, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
