TaylorMade's new R9 Forged Irons carves a path for the Carlsbad company to enter the realm of forged irons that boast a host of technologies for the mid handicapper. The nicely crafted irons are built from a two-piece body construction that blends a cast steel body with a soft, forged heel and face. What this provides is extra forgiveness, and added playability. Further perimeter weighting means that off-centre shots don't veer too far off the target.

Look further and you'll find added technological features. There is progress face-thickness through the set ñ 1.9mm in the 3 to 5-irons, 2.2mm in the 6 and 7-iron, 2.3mm in the 8-iron to mid wedge, and 2.5mm in the sand wedge. This provides higher COR where you need it and added feel in the shorter clubs. The top line also varies, from 8.3mm in the longer irons, to 6.8mm in the shorter ones (8-iron and down). TaylorMade has also maintained the Inverted Cone Technology to enhance ball speed on off-centred hits.

The TaylorMade R9 Forged Irons are available now at suggested retail prices of S$1,449 with GST (4-iron to PW, steel shaft), and S$1,599 with GST (4-iron to PW, graphite shaft).