Are you tired of working too hard to get enough forgiveness and distance on your shots? It’s high time you turned to cavity back irons for help. These irons are specifically designed to provide increased forgiveness and more distance.
Hence, we’ve sorted through hundreds of products to help you identify the best cavity back irons. After a thorough evaluation based on the clubs’ feel & control, materials, balance, shaft flex & length, forgiveness, and more important factors, we identified the 6 most reliable options with the JPX921 Hot Metal Pro as our Editor’s Choice. Not stopping there, we’ve also reviewed the selected cavity back irons.
Read our comprehensive guide to get started on choosing the right cavity back irons!
More features: 61.5 lie angle, 0.126 offset, 37-in length, right-hand configuration, rubber grip
We wouldn’t have overreached if we said the JPX921 Hot Metal Pro irons are Mizuno’s most forgiving clubs. Trust us, we enjoyed golfing with these precious clubs. These irons use the strength of the Chromoly 4140M, which delivers a high-strength face and a bendable hosel for the perfect fitting. As if that wasn’t enough, these clubs boast a fine-tuned head geometry that provides you with an ideal impact feel as well as feedback. Furthermore, the irons are open at the heel area to aid launch and stability while creating a tour-preferred sound and vibration. Little wonder, this cavity back iron set is our editor’s choice.
From the JPX921 Hot Metal Pro’s name, you can tell it’s not the first in its line. In fact, the pro model is an upgrade from the original JPX921 Hot Metal. Plus, the pro version has a more compact profile/build with reduced offset. It also features high-strength steel alloy for faster ball speeds. Moreover, the JPX921 Hot Metal Pro irons fit the bill if you are looking for professional-grade cavity back golf clubs. They are also ideal for those who want more forgiveness from their clubs.
More features: wide sole, 5 clubs, 2-year limited warranty, 37.5-in length, 62° lie angle
The Callaway Golf Apex DCB irons are some of the most special cavity back irons on the market, thanks to their unique construction. More specifically, these irons feature tens of grams of tungsten to produce incredible launch and forgiveness on off-center shots. Sporting a forged 1025 mild carbon stereo body and the maker’s urethane microsphere, the clubs deliver exceptional feel and sound at impact. Additionally, the innovative shaping enhances the feel through the turf. In our experience, these irons are Callaway’s most forgiving irons. On top of that, they offer the best forgiveness of any cavity back irons on the market.
Notably, the Callaway Golf Apex DCB irons have predecessors that are not as good as them. While the Apex DCB irons and their predecessors such as the original Apex and the Apex Pro all use the artificial intelligence (AI)-designed Flash Face Cap, the former boasts the best design of all. The AI Flash Face Cap ensures higher ball speeds, spin robustness, and distance control. The Apex DCB also has the highest recommended handicap range among its predecessors. Overall, the Apex DCB 21 iron is ideal for golfers who want the slimmer look and feel of an Apex iron but like more forgiveness with an easier launch.
More features: 2-year limited warranty, 35.75 in length, 64° lie angle
The Callaway Golf Mavrik says you do not need to dig a hole in your pocket to buy a high-quality cavity back iron set. This set features Callaway’s patented urethane microspheres to absorb undesirable vibration for a pure feel. And we can’t say that didn’t impress us. Furthermore, each iron features tungsten-infused weights, which help promote optimum launch and ball flight. Despite having some of the best features of any cavity back irons, these irons are reasonably priced, bringing us to the conclusion that they offer the best value.
Moreover, the Callaway Golf Mavrik iron set boasts some big improvements compared to most of its predecessors. The most significant of these improvements is the usage of AI in every iron to create a sophisticated face architecture that is unique to every loft. This helps to produce a big boost in ball speed and spin robustness of each iron. Additionally, this cavity back iron set is ideal for advanced golfers who want irons that can deliver the right shots without trouble.
More features: ECHO damping system, CG placement, 2-year limited warranty, 62.5° lie angle
The TaylorMade SiM 2 Max Iron Set boasts an innovative Cap Back Design that unlocks a new level of game improvement. Outperforming traditional cavity back irons, these TaylorMade cavity back irons promote better forgiveness and distance, which we noticed. They use an ECHO Damping System that stretches through the irons to absorb unwanted vibrations, improving the feel. Moreover, TaylorMade’s patented Thru-Slot Speed Pocket didn’t miss our radar. The technology maximizes face flexibility for forgiveness for mishits and higher ball speed. Thanks to the SiM 2 Max iron set’s exceptional forgiveness, it is the best for high handicap.
You’ve probably noticed that the TaylorMade SiM 2 Max has an original model—the TaylorMade SiM Max. As expected, the former boasts major improvements. The TaylorMade SiM 2 Max’s face is thinner than its predecessor, which helps to give the ball an impressive jump at impact. Also, the TaylorMade SiM 2 Max’s face is faster and more forgiving. No doubt, this is the kind of cavity back iron any high handicapper would want. Overall, the TaylorMade SiM 2 Max is ideal for those who want very forgiving irons.
More features: 1-year limited warranty, 62° lie angle, 37.5 in length
Rounding off our reviews of the best cavity back irons is the Wilson Staff D7 iron set. The irons in this set delivered some of the best performances among those we tested. This is mostly due to the D7 forged irons’ smart construction. For example, they boast a patented power hole construction that provides you with incredible distance. As if that wasn’t enough, the iron set features a urethane-filled Power Chamber that offers the traditional feel that golfers expect. In our opinion, this set contains the best forged cavity back irons.
Moreover, the Wilson Staff D7 iron set is a member of the longstanding D-series. Like its predecessors, it boasts some improvements. For example, it includes power holes that raise face flexibility, thus allowing more efficient energy return, greater distance, and increased ball speed. No doubt, the D7 is an excellent choice for golfers looking for longer irons that provide good forgiveness and distance. This iron set is also a good choice for those who want a quality option but are on a budget.
More features: titanium face, nickel chrome finish, 2-year manufacturer warranty, 62.5° lie angle, 37.25 in length
If you are a female golfer, you do not want to miss out on the Cobra Golf F-Max iron set. Without question, the irons in this set are among the lightest we tested. With this lightweight design, the irons get to generate more club speed and distance. The light shaft also lets you swing faster around your body. Furthermore, this iron set boasts a low profile, cavity back design that helps you launch the irons longer and higher, effortlessly. Also, the irons’ heel biased weighting ensures shots stay in control. In our opinion, this product is the best lady’s cavity back iron.
Besides, the Cobra Golf F-Max line is an evolution of the Cobra XL range. Unlike the Cobra XL range, the Cobra Golf F-Max offers various versions that are optimized for all categories of players. For example, the latter offers men’s, women’s, and seniors’ options. As you already know, the model we are reviewing is made for ladies. It’s also designed to help golfers/players with moderate swing speeds to be faster. Additionally, this iron set is ideal for beginners as it contains everything they’ll need to get into golf and play for many years.
Cavity back irons are available on the market in various shapes and sizes. That makes identifying the right options a bit tricky. But that won’t be a problem if you know what to look for. To make things easier for you, we’ve developed a comprehensive buying guide with a lot of relevant information to help you make the correct choice. Read on to find out all about it!
Cavity back irons are specially designed with hosels near the club heads to produce more forgiving lies when hitting the balls. The hosels make it easier to hit the balls as they increase the area of contact and reduce torque.
First of all, you need a good rhythmic swing to let cavity back irons do their job. Secondly, you need a downward angle of attack to ensure that the ball is not exposed to the cavity back club’s leading edge. Also, ensure that your angle of attack with this club is not too steep. Otherwise, the clubhead will be caught up in the turf and produce a duffed iron shot.
Several important factors need to be considered before buying a set of cavity back irons. We will discuss all of them below:
Feel and control are some of the most important factors you need to consider when shopping for cavity back irons. Both factors work hand in hand; a good feel gives you good control. And without the right level of control, you cannot get those important shots right. Thankfully, the best cavity back irons use various features/technologies to improve their feel.
For example, the JPX921 Hot Metal Pro iron set uses a fine-tuned head geometry to deliver the ideal feel. Likewise, the Callaway Golf Apex DCB iron set utilizes a forged 1025 mild carbon stereo body to deliver an exceptional feel. Beyond these examples, there are many good choices out there that will give you a satisfactory feel and control.
Materials are unarguably important factors to consider when it comes to any product. In the case of cavity back irons, you need to consider the materials of the grip, head and shaft. While the vast majority of golf grips are made from rubber, some of them are made from silicon, plastic, and elastomer. We recommend rubber grip, mostly because of its firm and adhesive feel.
When it comes to shaft and head materials, steel, graphite, and titanium are the most popular choices. Whether it’s stainless steel like that of the Cobra Golf F-Max or alloy steel like that of the Callaway Golf Mavrik, steel is the cheapest of all. Heavier than graphite, steel is designed for stronger golfers with faster swing speeds.
Graphite, on the other hand, is lighter and helps to promote more distance and speed. Although titanium is primarily used in constructing drivers, it’s sometimes used in making cavity back irons too. It is also light and strong.
Mostly, the choice is between steel and graphite and it comes down to preference and needs. Amateurs and tour professionals who need more solid irons will prefer steel while graphite is a better choice for golfers who need extra help creating clubhead speed due to its lightness.
Golfers aim for accuracy and distance on longer shots and pinpoint control on the approach shots to the green. You cannot achieve any of them consistently without a good balance. Essentially, you need your cavity back irons to provide you with good balance to enjoy your game. With a balanced swing, you can enjoy better control of the irons, thus ensuring accuracy.
All of the products on our list, including the TaylorMade SIM 2 MAX Iron Set and the Wilson Staff D7, offer great balance. We made sure of that. If you are going for an iron set outside this article, ensure that you read enough user reviews, so that you can get reliable information from people who have used them.
You should never choose a cavity back iron set without considering its shaft flex and length. Choosing the wrong shaft flex can mess with your experience. There are various flex options to choose from, including ladies, senior, regular, stiff, and extra stiff. Your choice of any of the shaft flex options should be based on your swing speed.
When it comes to choosing shaft length, the choice is about preference. Choose the length you find comfortable.
Most golfers opt for cavity back irons because they are generally known to be the most forgiving type of golf iron. We bet you are also considering cavity back irons because of the forgiveness. So, you must take forgiveness seriously when shopping for a set.
Even though all of the options we’ve reviewed offer impressive forgiveness, the JPX921 Hot Metal Pro and the Callaway Golf Apex DCB irons seem to stand out.
Hand orientation is another important factor that you cannot ignore when in the market for the best cavity back irons. While some irons offer both left-handed and right-handed options, others offer only one option. Generally, manufacturers indicate the hand orientation of their cavity back irons, so make sure to check and choose the one that suits you.
Cavity back irons typically last for several years with proper maintenance.
The price of a quality cavity back iron set begins at around $500 and tops out at $1500 for premium models. Generally, the more expensive the iron set, the more features you stand to enjoy. For example, you will get more from the premium Callaway Golf Apex DCB iron set than a $700 set.
Nevertheless, some quality cavity back irons like the Callaway Golf Mavrik are available at reasonable prices. Since most people find it difficult to identify the quality affordable options, we developed a list of the best irons under $500.
When shopping for a cavity back iron set, you should try to prioritize quality but do everything you can to not overpay for the product.
Our in-depth review of the most reliable cavity back irons must have opened your eyes to the many benefits they offer. Even though all of them are impressive, a few products deserve special mentions. Among them is our editor’s choice—the JPX921 Hot Metal Pro iron set—which delivers a great feel and feedback. It also aids launch while providing faster ball speeds.
Right behind this set is the Callaway Golf Apex DCB iron set, which uses AI and other innovative features to deliver excellent forgiveness and feel. And we can’t help but also mention our value pick—the Callaway Golf Mavrik—which packs promotes optimum launch, offers a pure feel, and more despite its modest price.
No doubt, the best cavity back irons are not limited to the ones we’ve reviewed but this article is a great place to start. In case you want an alternative that offers a longer distance, you should consider the best 2 irons.
