Iron Review – Titleist 714 AP1 & AP2
714 AP1
The Titleist 714 AP1 is the most playable game improvement iron manufactured to date. Titleist has made the 714 AP1 clubhead bigger than previous AP1 models. With the creation of a larger clubhead, Titleist is now able to move the weight to different areas of the clubhead. The long irons feature a channel that runs the entire length of the clubhead, along the inside of the upper cavity. The channel takes away from the overall weight of the clubhead. This created an opportunity for Titleist to add a high-density, tungsten weight in the toe of the AP1 model. The heavier tungsten weight in the toe shifts the sweet spot of the golf club closer to the center of the club. The weight in the toe also lowers the center of gravity in the AP1 irons. A lower center of gravity creates a clubhead that is capable of producing higher launching golf shots. The center of gravity progresses higher throughout the iron set, from the long to short irons. The gradual shift of center of gravity makes it easier control the trajectory of golf shots on the short irons. The lofts of the short irons have been strengthened by one degree as compared to previous models. The long irons will have a wider sole than previous models with rounded leading edges that will help the overall performance of the golf club. The short irons have a thinner topline and a smaller sole than the long irons in order to make it easier to control the short iron shots. The AP1 irons will come with True Temper Dynamic Gold XP shafts, which is a new lightweight shaft that offers lightweight performance with a higher trajectory.
714 AP2
The Titleist 714 AP2 irons are a blend of high performance features that ultimately lead to a forgiving model. The AP2 irons are forged irons that enhance the feel of all golf shots. Titleist designed a clubface that is 25% thinner than previous AP2 models. The thinner club face has paved way to the addition of a high density tungsten weight in the toe and heel portions of the clubhead. The tungsten weight in the heel is positioned below the shaft, where the shaft enters the clubhead. The combination of the thinner face and added tungsten weights has created a lower center of gravity, which creates a forgiving clubhead, especially on mis-hit golf shots. Off-center golf shots will still maintain ball speeds so you won’t sacrifice any distance. The center of gravity gradually rises in the clubheads, from the long to short irons. Gradually shifting the center of gravity helps to manage ball flight and spin on the shorter irons. The lofts of the AP2 short irons have been strengthened by one degree. The new AP2 irons will feature an added camber and a rounded leading edge to help prevent the club from digging into the ground. The irons will come with a True Temper Dynamic Gold shaft, which provides exceptional control and accuracy.
Alan Unruh
Alan Unruh is a Class “A” member of the PGA of America, and holds PGA Certifications in General Management, Golf Operations and Player Development. With these certifications, he is among the 1% of PGA members that hold multiple PGA Certifications. He has a profound passion for the game of golf along with extensive experience and knowledge regarding planning and strategy for golf operations, rules of golf, tournament operations and golf swing fundamentals. Alan has also played a crucial role helping manage multiple high profile tournaments throughout his career including the USGA Women’s U.S. Open, PGA and LPGA Tour events, and multiple NCAA and AJGA events.