TOP GEAR THE BEST OF 2023

See how the latest models compare and have a clear idea of which new equipment should be on your radar with this massive club test of 278 clubs tested under controlled conditions. Last month, we featured drivers, fairway woods and hybrids. Part two continues with irons - in the subcategories of players, players' distance, mid-handicap and high-handicap - wedges, and putters that are broken down into blades, MOI and mallet. If you need advice about the best clubs to buy, look no further.

PLAYERS' IRONS

COBRA KING TOUR
Stock shaft: KBS $-Taper 
7-iron loft: 32° 
Forgiveness rating: 2/5

VERDICT: It's been a very long time since a Cobra iron bagged top honours in a TG players' iron test, but the simple and elegant new King Tour is well worthy of such lofty acclaim. This iron helped nurse Rickie Fowler's game back into shape and it's a model the brand haven't really offered for a few years. The five-times forged heads feel super soft. There's a tiny bit of tech built in with variable-depth milled pockets in the shallow cavity back, which add a touch more playability on the long irons and increased flight control on the scoring clubs. Like any good players' iron, the head shape is really attractive and there are no awkward areas that unduly draw the eye. This is an understated model for decent players who are happy to let their golf do the talking. The Tour set our joint-fastest ball speed (123.1mph, tied with the Titleist T100 S) and joint second-longest carry (177 yards, again tied with the Titleist T100 S).

TAYLORMADE P770 
Stock shaft: KBS Tour
7-iron loft: 34°
Forgiveness rating: 2-2.5/5