The Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons are a standout addition to Titleist’s lineup, offering a blend of the best features from both the AP1 and AP2 models. Aimed at golfers seeking a combination of distance, forgiveness, and workability, the 718 AP3 irons are designed to cater to a wide range of skill levels. In this comprehensive review, sangaspargolf will explore every aspect of these irons, including their looks, sound and feel, technology, performance, on-course behavior, specifications, and pros and cons. Additionally, we will address frequently asked questions to provide a thorough understanding of what makes the Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons a popular choice among golfers.
Looks
The Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons are aesthetically pleasing with a sleek, modern design that appeals to the eye. The irons feature a clean, classic look with a brushed chrome finish, which not only enhances their visual appeal but also provides durability. The clubhead is slightly larger than the AP2, providing a bit more confidence at address, while maintaining a relatively compact profile that appeals to better players.
The top line is thin but not too intimidating, striking a balance that caters to both low and mid-handicappers. The cavity back design is subtly visible, which hints at the added forgiveness without compromising the traditional look preferred by many golfers. The overall design exudes quality and precision, consistent with Titleist’s reputation for producing premium golf equipment.
Sound & Feel
The sound and feel of the Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons are crucial elements that define the playing experience. These irons deliver a satisfying, crisp sound at impact, which is a hallmark of quality craftsmanship. The feedback is immediate and clear, providing golfers with valuable information on the quality of their strike.
In terms of feel, the 718 AP3 irons offer a perfect blend of softness and responsiveness. The use of high-strength steel and an innovative construction process results in a solid yet lively feel. Mishits are not harsh, thanks to the perimeter weighting and advanced materials used in the clubhead. Overall, these irons provide a rewarding feel that enhances confidence and encourages better performance.
Technology
The Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons are packed with cutting-edge technology designed to improve performance across various aspects of the game. Here are the key technological features:
Hollow-Blade Construction
The AP3 irons feature a hollow-blade construction, combining the benefits of a cavity back with the distance-enhancing properties of a hollow body. This design increases ball speed and allows for a lower, more controlled center of gravity (CG), resulting in higher launch angles and greater carry distances.
L-Face Insert
The high-strength steel L-Face insert is designed to enhance ball speed across the face, especially on off-center hits. This technology ensures consistent distance and forgiveness, even on mishits, making the irons more playable for a wider range of golfers.
Tungsten Weighting
Tungsten weights are strategically placed in the toe and heel areas of the clubhead to optimize the CG location. This precise weighting improves stability and forgiveness, helping golfers achieve straighter, more consistent shots.
Progressive Set Design
The 718 AP3 irons feature a progressive set design, with each iron optimized for its specific role. The long irons are designed for higher launch and greater distance, while the short irons provide more control and accuracy. This progression ensures that golfers have the right tool for every situation on the course.
Performance
Performance is where the Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons truly shine. These irons are engineered to deliver a remarkable combination of distance, forgiveness, and workability, making them suitable for a wide range of golfers.
Distance
One of the standout features of the 718 AP3 irons is their impressive distance. The hollow-blade construction and L-Face insert work together to generate high ball speeds, resulting in longer shots compared to traditional cavity-back irons. Golfers can expect a significant improvement in carry distance, particularly with the long irons.
Forgiveness
Forgiveness is another area where the AP3 irons excel. The tungsten weighting and perimeter weighting enhance the stability of the clubhead, minimizing the effects of off-center strikes. This means that even on less-than-perfect swings, golfers can still achieve respectable distances and maintain accuracy.
Workability
While the 718 AP3 irons are designed to be forgiving, they also offer a level of workability that appeals to better players. The compact profile and precise CG placement allow for shot shaping and control, enabling skilled golfers to execute a variety of shots with confidence.
On The Course
Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons perform admirably in a variety of conditions. Whether it’s a tight fairway, a challenging approach shot, or a tricky lie in the rough, these irons provide the versatility and reliability needed to navigate the course effectively.
Tee Shots
When used off the tee, the long irons in the AP3 set offer a high launch and impressive distance, making them a viable alternative to fairway woods or hybrids. The confidence-inspiring design helps golfers hit long, accurate shots that find the fairway consistently.
Approach Shots
For approach shots, the 718 AP3 irons excel in delivering precise, controlled strikes. The increased ball speed and optimized launch angles make it easier to hold greens, even from longer distances. The feedback and feel provided by the irons help golfers dial in their distances and improve their scoring potential.
Short Game
Around the greens, the short irons and wedges in the AP3 set offer excellent control and versatility. The progressive design ensures that each club performs optimally for its intended use, whether it’s a delicate chip shot or a full swing. Golfers will appreciate the responsiveness and accuracy of these irons in critical short-game situations.
Specifications
Here are the specifications for the Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons:
| Club | Loft | Lie | Length | Offset | Swing Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Iron | 19° | 61.0° | 39.0″ | 4.0mm | D2 |
| 4 Iron | 22° | 61.5° | 38.5″ | 3.7mm | D2 |
| 5 Iron | 25° | 62.0° | 38.0″ | 3.4mm | D2 |
| 6 Iron | 28° | 62.5° | 37.5″ | 3.1mm | D2 |
| 7 Iron | 31° | 63.0° | 37.0″ | 2.8mm | D2 |
| 8 Iron | 35° | 63.5° | 36.5″ | 2.5mm | D2 |
| 9 Iron | 39° | 64.0° | 36.0″ | 2.2mm | D2 |
| PW | 43° | 64.5° | 35.75″ | 2.0mm | D2 |
| W | 48° | 64.5° | 35.50″ | 1.8mm | D2 |
Pros
- Distance: Exceptional distance with high ball speeds and optimal launch angles.
- Forgiveness: High forgiveness due to tungsten weighting and perimeter weighting.
- Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of golfers, from mid to low handicappers.
- Aesthetics: Sleek, modern design with a brushed chrome finish.
- Feel: Soft yet responsive feel, providing excellent feedback on strikes.
Cons
- Price: Premium pricing may be a barrier for some golfers.
- Workability: While workable, may not offer the same level of control as the AP2 for advanced shot shaping.
- Compact Profile: The slightly larger head size may not appeal to purists who prefer a more traditional look.
FAQs
Are Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons forgiving?
Yes, the Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons are forgiving. The combination of tungsten weighting, perimeter weighting, and advanced materials ensures that mishits are minimized, providing consistent performance across the face. This forgiveness makes the AP3 irons suitable for a wide range of golfers, including those seeking a balance between forgiveness and workability.
How far do Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons go?
The Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons are designed to deliver impressive distance. Thanks to the hollow-blade construction and L-Face insert, golfers can expect higher ball speeds and longer carry distances compared to traditional cavity-back irons. The exact distance will vary based on individual swing speed and technique, but generally, these irons offer a significant distance advantage.
Do Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons feel good?
Yes, the Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons provide an excellent feel. The combination of high-strength steel and innovative construction techniques results in a soft yet responsive feel. The feedback is clear, allowing golfers to instantly know the quality of their strike. This combination of feel and feedback enhances the overall playing experience.
What’s the difference between Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons and Titleist 718 AP2 Golf Irons?
The Titleist 718 AP3 and AP2 Golf Irons are designed to cater to different types of golfers and playing styles. While both sets are crafted with precision and high-quality materials, they offer distinct features that set them apart.
| Feature | Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons | Titleist 718 AP2 Golf Irons |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Hollow-blade construction | Traditional cavity-back design |
| Face Insert | High-strength steel L-Face insert | Forged steel face |
| Forgiveness | High forgiveness with tungsten and perimeter weighting | Moderate forgiveness with precise weighting |
| Distance | Enhanced distance with higher ball speeds | Standard distance with emphasis on control |
| Workability | Good workability with focus on distance | High workability with focus on shot shaping |
| Feel | Soft yet responsive feel | Solid, consistent feel |
| Aesthetics | Sleek, modern design with a slightly larger head | Classic, compact profile with a forged look |
| Progressive Set Design | Yes, optimized for each club in the set | Yes, with a focus on consistency throughout the set |
| Loft Progression | Slightly stronger lofts for increased distance | Traditional lofts for precise distance control |
| Skill Level | Mid to low handicappers | Low handicappers and skilled players |
Are Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons good for high handicappers?
While the Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons are more forgiving than the AP2 irons, they are primarily aimed at mid to low handicappers. High handicappers may find the AP1 irons more suitable due to their larger head size and greater forgiveness. However, if a high handicapper is improving and seeking a blend of distance and control, the AP3 irons can be a viable option.
How much do Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons cost?
The Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons are positioned as premium clubs and are priced accordingly. The cost can vary based on the retailer, customization options, and any ongoing promotions. On average, a set of AP3 irons can range from $1,200 to $1,400. It’s advisable to check with authorized Titleist dealers for the most accurate and current pricing.
Conclusion
The Titleist 718 AP3 Golf Irons are a remarkable addition to Titleist’s iron lineup, offering a unique blend of distance, forgiveness, and workability. With their sleek design, advanced technology, and impressive performance, these irons cater to a wide range of golfers. Whether you’re a mid-handicapper looking to improve your game or a low-handicapper seeking a balance between distance and control, the 718 AP3 irons provide an excellent option. While they come at a premium price, the investment is justified by the quality and performance they deliver.