Game Improvement Irons

: NIKE SLINGSHOT 4D; STREET PRICE: $600
WEBSITE: nikegolf.com
LOFTS
6-iron: 30, PW: 46

TECH STORY
The slingback is positioned progressively throughout the set to achieve the proper ball flight for each club. The variable sole width narrows from long irons to short irons to improve turf interaction.

PLAYER COMMENTS
"Nike has really cleaned this one up. The sound is better, too. It's more pure and less clinky. . . . It doesn't allow me to work the ball much, but it's very solid. . . . A forgiving club, but the protruding piece in back is too much of a reminder that I'm a hacker. . . . The coloring in the back cavity is snazzy and contemporary."

HOT
Nike might be better known in irons for the blades Mr. Woods plays, but it's in the manufacturing of clubs to help average players that the company really shines. This latest version of the Slingshot does nothing to detract from that heritage.

NOT
This iron might appeal to a bigger audience, but it lacks the wider sole and deeper cavity that made the original one of our favorites.

: TAYLORMADE BURNER XD; STREET PRICE: $900
WEBSITE: taylormadegolf.com
LOFTS
6-iron: 26, PW: 44

TECH STORY
The use of titanium allows for a thin face (2.5 millimeters) with high elasticity that is designed to improve ball speed. Weight has also been repositioned to enhance the MOI for better off-center hits. A sound-managing cavity badge is intended to reduce vibration.

PLAYER COMMENTS
"I love these clubs. I can even hit the 3-iron. I can't miss with them. . . . I think a broad spectrum of golfers would enjoy playing with these, but I was expecting a little more off the mis-hits. . . . I can tell the lofts are strong just by looking at the ball flight."

HOT
OK, you might need full flaps to stop these strong-lofted irons on the greens, but get over it. They're named Burner for a reason. Despite the strong lofts, the ball still flies high enough. It's a nice alternative for those who need a little more club than the r7.

NOT
The top line is a little chunky for this category, and the ball feels a tad hard coming off the face.