But what about iron play? If you're looking for more distance, it might be time to put those blades in the closet and think about trying some new technology. Because they've come a long way baby.

What lies beneath this gorgeous design is what separates the AP1 716 from its predecessor

Titleist’s AP1 716 is the longest, most forgiving iron the company has ever produced. And like it's sister product, the "better player's" forged cavity back called the AP2, the AP1 appeals to a wide variety of players, as it evolves with each new model.

What we like most about the AP1 716s is that the technical enhancements are implemented without sacrificing the good looks and superb feel that all Titleist irons are known for. Without getting too technical, let’s take a look at some of the latest features:

LOW CG AND HIGH MOI, A NICE COMBINATION

Titleist engineers used 50% more high-density Tungsten when designing the AP1 716 than in the 714 model that preceded it. That allowed them to create club with an even lower CG for higher launch. So they could use less loft throughout the set, especially on the PW, which clocks in at just 43 degrees. On the range, we got plenty of loft from the wedge, but if the extra distance means the need to look at adding a wedge, the AP1 offers a W (47) and W2 (52) to make your gapping easy. As always, it's highly recommended that you get fitted and with so many expert Titleist club fitters, that should be a breeze. Locate one here.

DEEP UNDERCUT 360 DEGREE CAVITY AND THIN, FAST FACE

360 Undercut Cavity - Side View

The best way to describe this is to show a picture – see the graphic on the right or check out the video above. On the previous model the face was supported with a horizontal bar, notice that on the 716 that is removed and the undercut cavity is deeper. You’ll likely feel the difference immediately as we did during our testing session; the face is thinner and faster and the ball seems to stay on the face longer before rocketing off.

And as nice as a fast face is, there is much more to the story, because a “hot” iron in itself doesn’t solve the problem of forgiveness and accuracy.

That's where the "extreme use of Tungsten" has comes into play. Putting more weight low and on the perimeter of the AP1 means that when you catch it a little low on the face, or off the heel or toe, you're not going to see as much of a loss of distance. It might mean the difference between clearing the sand trap or water hazard, and that's not a bad thing.

OTHER FEATURES

If you look at the cross-cut photo above, you'll get a feel for the pre-worn sole. This has become an important part of Titleist's iron designs in general, and in the AP1 even more crucial due to the longer blade. You don't want your blade getting "stuck" -- especially the heel or toe -- because of the effect on ball flight.

SHAFT OPTIONS

STEEL:
True Temper XP 90
5 grams lighter than the model that shipped with the previous version of the AP1; provides additional clubhead speed while maintaining the control of a steel shaft.

GRAPHITE:
Mitsubishi Kuro Kage TiNi 65
A unique graphite option that is constructed with a Titanium nickel wire that provides additional feel and response.

The Titleist AP1 716 irons are available with steel ($112.50 per club, or $899 for a set of 8) or graphite ($137.50 per club or $1,099 for set of 8) shaft options.

For more information or to find a retailer, visit www.titleist.com