Callaway XR iron review
Callaway XR iron replaces the X2 Hot, but is it an improvement?
WATCH: Callaway XR iron review
READ: Game Improvement Irons 2015 Test
Brand: Callaway
Model: XR
Category: Game improvement
RRP: £549
Loft: 26-degree
Length: 37.63”
Shaft: True Temper Speed Step 58
Grip: Callaway
Key Features
- Cup 360 - acts like a spring on shots struck low on the face and increases ball speeds everywhere else on the face
- Internal Standing Wave - lowers the centre of gravity, increases the moment of inertia and creates more space for the face to flex
- Vibration dampener - to make shots feel softer
- New construction and progressive shape - two-piece construction includes a dual heat treatment to ensure better playability
Looks
Moderate topline to look down on, nothing like the chunky Callaway Big Bertha. The shiny finish caused some glare issues in the sun. Scorelines at the bottom of the face ensure suitable alignment and confidence at address. Tester's comment: "Ideal topline but far too much glare."
Feel
Majority of testers reported a soft-feeling iron. The vibration dampener certainly softens the noise, and also provides good feedback at impact. It will let you know when you have hit a squiffy one. The stock True Temper Speed Step shaft feels very nicely weighted and easy to control. Tester's comment: "A real 'thwack' sound, much nicer than Big Bertha's gun shot".
Performance
Each tester was receiving an approximate five-yard gain with the XR six iron. Not up there with Callaway's radical 12-yard gain during robot testing, but we are not machines. Split opinion on forgiveness but three testers thought it was tougher to strike clean than some of its rivals. Tester's comment: "A real distance enhancer but not as forgiving as I'd like."
Verdict
If you are looking to increase your distance but want more of a sleeker look to your iron, the Callaway XR will be right up your street. Good value for money at £549. Splits opinion when it comes to forgiveness, particularly in comparison to others in our test, but a pleasing feel and sound about it.
Andy first joined the brand on a month's work experience back in April 2011, and he now assumes the Editor role. When Andy joined GolfMagic it was a small site with potential.
