Review: TaylorMade RocketBladez Tour irons

TaylorMade RocketBladez Tour, in 3- to 7-iron, is powered by the Speed Pocket - the ‘little thing’ that promotes radically increased speed and distance. Quite frankly, these irons are the true blend of the feel the pros like Sergio Garcia demand and the explosive distance that amateurs like myself crave.

The first thing I wanted to note was the lie angle of the 6-iron, given the regular RocketBladez 6-iron I tested earlier in the year was likened to a 5-iron at an outrageous 26.5-degree. I was therefore much happier to see a more realistic loft of 29.5-degree this time around.

This player iron looks great at address with its medium sole and big top edge, and just looking at the back of the club inspired me with confidence placing clubhead behind ball. I also like how the Speed Pocket is located more in the middle of the sole rather than in the front. There is plenty of weight, too, at the back to help me get the ball airborne.

Although I'm skeptical of the loud crack of the game improvement RocketBladez iron, this Tour version is much more pleasing. A specially formulated built-in polyurethane delivers a much softer sound and a real crisp, springy feel at impact. The combination of KBS shaft also works well for my quick swing speed.

In terms of performance, the RocketBladez Tour is at the top end of the spectrum and provides a much truer distance compared to the original version, although still much longer than my current setup. I find it's slightly easier to hit a draw than a fade with these long irons.

I also find the milled face texture of the grooves promotes consistently high spin and shots tend to hold their line well in the wind. The broad sweetspot certainly helps minimise mis-hits and when I did hit a poor one, the feedback gave me strong signals to get my act together on the next shot.

Verdict

By far the best TaylorMade iron I’ve placed a glove on. Easy-to-hit, generates a decent mid-to-high ball flight, plenty of distance thanks to its trampoline-like effect and with enough forgiveness to suit even the mid-handicapper. It’s also one of the most visually appealing player irons out there.

Yes, the set is expensive at £699 but the RocketBladez Tour looks, feels and performs the way you would expect for the price. 

You want more?

Click here for TaylorMade RocketBladez Tour owner reviews. Click this link for our Ten of the Best player irons test. Got any questions or comments about the RocketBladez Tour? Let us know below.