Titleist Introduces Next Generation AP1 and AP2 Irons

Dedicated to providing serious golfers with the highest performing equipment in golf, Titleist introduces the next generation of its ground-breaking Advanced Performance irons. The new Titleist AP1 and AP2 irons (712 Series) stay true to the design mission of “Advanced Performance with Feel." Both models are multi-material, dual cavity irons that provide modern ball flight and forgiveness with the traditional looks, feel and sound that serious golfers have come to expect from Titleist irons.

"The new 712 line of AP irons represents another step forward in iron design," said Steve Pelisek, General Manager, Titleist Golf Clubs. “With the development of the first AP irons in 2007, we knew we had created something special - irons that incorporated a true blend of classic golf club aesthetics with modern playability, forgiveness and consistency. With the new 712 line we've taken this breakthrough technology to a new, game-changing level by increasing the stability and forgiveness without losing any workability or shot control."

NEW ADVANCES IN THE 712 AP IRONS:

The improvements incorporated into the new AP irons came about as the result of continued research that indicated that serious golfers were looking for improvements in three main areas. First, most players wanted even greater refinements to the clubhead's profile. Both the new AP1 and AP2 models feature sleeker contours that result in a better address position. Players also expressed a desire for more forgiveness, to get more out of their miss-hits, or said another way, better distance control. Both the new AP1 and AP2 have been improved with internal weighting that utilises higher density tungsten in order to distribute mass more efficiently which increases the moment-of-inertia (MOI) without changing the CG location or the blade length. The higher MOI provides more consistent ball speed across the clubface and better distance control. Better distance control leads to more scoring opportunities and is the key to good iron play.

The third wish-list item that research uncovered was that players wanted more forgiveness without any loss of workability or shot control. Traditionally it has been thought that forgiveness and workability were mutually exclusive. The new AP irons prove that they are not.

ON TOUR:

The new 712 AP irons received instant validation from players at the PGA TOUR's AT&T National event, where the prototype irons were first introduced. A total of 19 players (out of an event-leading 40 Titleist iron sets) put sets of 712 irons in play the first week they were available, including the winner of the event, Titleist Brand Ambassador Nick Watney. Success followed three weeks later when Scott Stallings captured the Greenbrier Classic with the new AP2 irons for his first career win.

Among those who have already put the new sets in play with success include Ben Curtis with the AP1 and the following relying upon AP2: Ben Crane, Brendon DeJonge, Jason Dufner, Brad Faxon, Hunter Haas, Marc Leishman, Jarrod Lyle, Matteo Manassero, SY Noh, Tom Pernice, Jr., Brett Quigley, Michael Sim, Scott Stallings, Josh Teater, Nick Watney.

AP1 Features and benefits include:

• Increased Forgiveness through an advanced technology, multi-material, high MOI design featuring a precise stainless steel body and high density tungsten sole weight.
• Higher Ball Speed on miss-hits for improved distance control.
• More Forgiving Long Irons with a 4% increase in moment-of-inertial (MOI).
• More Traditional Short Irons through a progressively reduced blade length.
• Improved Solid Feel from the high MOI design and tuned feel cavity insert.
• Improved Confidence Inspiring Appearance with a bevelled topline, traditional shape and more precise address profile.
• Price/Availability - Available in both right and left hand beginning November 18, 2011, with a suggested retail price of £93 per club/steel, and £107 per club/graphite.

AP2 Features and benefits include:

• Overview/Player Profile - Titleist AP2 irons are advanced performance, multi-material, dual cavity forged irons providing more playability, solid feel and an improved classic profile for the serious and skilled golfer.
• Increased Playability through an advanced technology, multi-material, forged carbon steel body and high density tungsten weight design.
• Consistent Ball Speed and improved distance control on miss-hits from a 7% increase in MOI with no loss of workability or shot control.
• Improved Solid Feel from increased MOI and the tuned feel cavity insert.
• Precise Short Irons with reduced sole widths in the 8, 9 and PW for improved turf performance.
• Improved Appearance with a new squarer profile.
• Superior Shot Control from the small progressive offset and traditional constant blade length.
• Price/Availability - Available in both right and left hand beginning November 18, 2011, with a suggested retail price of £114 per club/steel and £130 per club/graphite.