When it comes to players' distance irons, two names dominate: TaylorMade P790 and Callaway Apex Pro. Both bring forged feel, sleek design, and long-distance potential. Here's how the numbers actually compare.
Loft & Spec (7-Iron)
TaylorMade P790: 30.5° loft, 62.5° lie, 2.7mm offset. Stock shafts include True Temper Dynamic Gold 95/105 and Mitsubishi MMT graphite.
Callaway Apex Pro: 33° loft, 62° lie, 2.3mm offset. Stock shafts include True Temper Elevate Tour and Project X LS.
The P790 is stronger-lofted, so it launches lower and flies farther for the same numbered iron.
Launch Monitor Data (7-Iron)
| Golfer | Iron | Ball Speed | Launch | Spin | Carry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-handicap (90 mph) | P790 | 124 mph | 16° | 5,200 rpm | 175 yds |
| Mid-handicap (90 mph) | Apex Pro | 120 mph | 17° | 5,800 rpm | 168 yds |
| Low-handicap (95 mph) | P790 | 129 mph | 15° | 5,000 rpm | 182 yds |
| Low-handicap (95 mph) | Apex Pro | 126 mph | 16.5° | 5,600 rpm | 176 yds |
Translation: the P790 delivers more distance and forgiveness; the Apex Pro trades a little distance for more spin and stopping power.
Performance Breakdown
| P790 | Apex Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Price (new) | ~$1,399 | ~$1,599 |
| Price (used) | $950–$1,050 | $1,100–$1,200 |
| Forgiveness | 4 / 5 | 3 / 5 |
| Feel | 4 / 5 | 5 / 5 |
| Best for handicap | 8–18 | 0–10 |
P790 advantages: longest distance in the category, hollow-body forgiveness, great resale value. Disadvantages: a slightly "clicky" feel next to a forged blade, and strong lofts that can hurt stopping power.
Apex Pro advantages: premium forged feel, consistent spin for holding greens, a compact tour shape. Disadvantages: less forgiving on mishits, higher price point.
Choose P790 for distance and forgiveness. Choose Apex Pro for workability and feel.
For most mid-handicappers, the P790 is the better all-around choice — the Apex Pro earns its price for players who already control their strike and want the extra spin.
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