Callaway releases three new Apex forged iron models for 2021

January 11, 2021 | by AmateurGolf.com Equipment Panel

A.I. designed forged distance irons designed with A.I. for the first time, are definitely combo-set worthy. We look at all three.

2021 is off to an start for Callaway Golf.

The Carlsbad, California based company just signed World No. 2 Jon Rahm to a multi-year 13 club and ball deal. The Spaniard nicknamed "Rahmbo" is said to be thrilled with his new weapons of par destruction. So thrilled, that he posted a course record 59 at Arizona's Silverleaf G.C. on his first outing with the gear and Chrome Soft X ball, then posted 20-under for a solid T7 at Kapalua.

And for their first product launch of the year, Callaway has turned loose their supercomputer on the iconic Apex line of irons. It's the first time that A.I. has been used in the design of a forged iron, resulting in three models that provide distance, control, and forgiveness with unmistakeable forged feel.

One of the models, the DCB, might even have newer or returning golfers think about playing a forged club. Now that's something different!

In our 36-hole test drive, we found the DCB model to be the perfect addition to a combo set. Even if the more skilled golfers in our audience want the look of a more compact irons for the scoring clubs, the DCB long irons are worthy of a try because they might just stop you from putting a second or third hybrid in your bag. They are that good.

Technologies common to all three models include:

The First Apex Iron Designed With A.I.
For the first time ever, Callaway has installed a Flash Face Cup in a forged Apex Iron The unique A.I. - designed architecture in each individual iron creates high ball speeds and increased spin robustness across the face. They’re engineered for impressive distance and pinpoint control.

Consistent Launch and Increased Forgiveness
For the first time, Callaway has implemented their Tungsten Energy Core into an Apex Iron. Tungsten is heavy, and using a A.I. machine learning to test hundreds of thousands of iterations led Callaway engineers to the conclusion that they could use a whopping five times the tungsten in the Apex 19, to precisely position the CG in each iron. What it means for you is more forgiveness on off-center shots, and outstanding launch throughout the set.

Forged Blade Feel In A Players Distance Iron
Apex Irons are renowned for their pure feel, and Apex 21 is no different. The body of the iron is 100% forged from a 1025 mild carbon steel body. Callaway's patented urethane microspheres behind the face cup deliver exceptional sound and feel at impact. The improved shaping also helps to enhance feel through the turf.

We'll start our three model breakdown in reverse, from most forgiving through the "pro" model that's been so popular with tournament golfers.

APEX 21 DCB

No, it's not TCB (Taking Care of Business) - the name of Elvis Presley's 1969 road band and logo emblazoned on his jet Lisa Marie (gosh we are old know that). This is DCB, as in "Deep Cavity Back" and it's Callaway's most forgiving Apex. How forgiving? The long irons launch rockets like the Utility clubs that are somewhere between a hybrid and an iron. If you struggle to hit 4, 5, and even 6 irons consistently you might find yourself falling in love with these.

You get the forged look, feel and performance of a players iron in a deep cavity-back design, plus a Tungsten Energy Core that promotes outstanding launch and more forgiveness on off-center shots, AND an A.I.-designed Flash Face Cup. Now more players can use Apex than ever before.

APEX 21

Here you have the player's distance iron. Apex is one of the most popular irons among single digit tournament players who want a forged distance iron. The new iteration, Apex 21, provides extraordinary performance, an A.I.-designed Flash Face Cup, more forgiveness from the Tungsten Energy Core (remember it has 5x the tungsten of Apex 19), and enhanced shaping for better turf interaction. The body is 100% forged from 1025 mild carbon steel. Fun side note? The sole interaction with turf makes knock down and bump and run shots from tight lies a little easier too.

APEX 21 PRO

Apex 21 Pro is the player's performance iron in the lineup. It's a complete offering with speed, control, and a 1025 forged hollow body for lower handicap players. Apex 21 features an A.I.-designed Flash Face Cup. And its massive Tungsten Energy Core (up to 90 grams in the longer irons) improves launch characteristics while simultaneously improving forgiveness.

PRICE & AVAILABILITY

All of the Apex Irons will be available for online pre-order on January 26, and at retail on February 11, at a price of $1,480 for a standard 8-piece steel set ($185 per individual steel iron), and $1,600 for a standard 8-piece graphite set ($200 per individual graphite iron). Combo sets are also available.

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