As we reported a few weeks ago, Bridgestone Golf will be launching no less than 3 sets of new irons in 2015. We did some digging around and have come up with the most comprehensive look at the new clubs to date.
J15DPF
The closest thing to a game-improvement iron (though I’d be hesitant to call it that) we’ve seen from the 2015 lineup is the J15DPF. As it did with previous generations of Bridgestone Irons, the DPF stands for Dual Pocket Forged (Bridgestone’s way of moving weight to the perimeter of a forged iron).
The DPF features what appears to be a dampening insert which is being called Dual Pocket Turbo Rubber. Here’s hoping that’s one of those things that gets completely lost in translation.
Bridgestone J15DPF Specifications
J15DF
The J15DF (Driving Forged) has the looking of what I like to call a transitional iron. It’s likely designed for low to mid handicappers looking for a relatively traditional appearance and the feel many believe can only come from a forging.
While we have no idea what it means from a technology standpoint, the DF irons feature Ultimate Strong Metal, which no doubt offers some really awesome benefits.
J15CB
The most traditional of the new cavity back designs, the J15CB features a classic, understated cavity back appearance, that’s reminiscent of Titleist’s current 714CB or Mizuno’s MP-64. It’s a simple-looking design for guys who like it that way.
The images suggest an iron with a thin topline, minimal offset, and a Sure Contact Sole design, which we assume has plenty to do with turf interaction.
Bridgestone J15DF and J15CB Sepcifications
Forged and Forged M Wedges
For 2015 Bridgestone will be offering up two models of wedges. Both the standard model and the M-series will be available in both satin chrome and black finish.
Presumably the M references and alternative grind. Assuming that means an M-grind, the secondary option will offer additional heel and toe relief. As with their new metalwoods, Bridgestone has baked a few bits of technology into the new wedges.
Sure Contact Sole
With nearly any wedge, sole design is almost always about versatility and turf interaction. Expect Bridgestone to tell some version of that story.
Tour Design Groove & Face Milling
Nearly everybody with a wedge on the market has a groove and face milling story. Why should Bridgstone be any different? You can bet this has something to do with spin, and probably spin from any lie.
Durable Groove Technology
Now. This. Is. Interesting.
When you find the right wedge, you don’t want to let go. You want it to last forever, but invariably, grooves wear, and our old friends simply don’t spin the way they used to. It’s not uncommon to hear stories about guys who’d buy 2 or 3 of exactly the same wedge (especially back when you could still buy non-conforming wedges), so that when one (and the one after that) wore out, they’d have another ready to go.
With Durable Groove Technology, it appears Bridgestone has developed some sort of process that will keep your wedge grooves fresh (and producing spin) longer than you could have hoped for otherwise.
J715 and J18?
As you may recall, Bridgestone applied for Trademarks for both J15 and J18. Are these irons? Metalwoods?
Stay tuned.
LaMont
9 years ago
This new line-up from Bridgestone is the beginning of a push from “All Ball Focus” over to “Let’s Get Some of the Equipment Market Focus” IMHO. I am all for it. I have been a Bridgestone guy since the Rextar balata days, back in the 90’s and have tried a ton of other OEM’s along the way. The technical level of design on Bridgestone has always been top notch, but they have never focused on the equipment market for the USA. This year, that is changing. With the struggles that you hear happening with a few of the other OEMs, B’stone’s timing may be perfect. Quality has never been an issue, just supply to meet the demand.
The goal, from what I am hearing, is to become as fast on the supply end as PING and Mizuno and serve world markets under the Bridgestone name, not Tour Stage in Asia, Bridgestone in the US.
If you have not seen the blade version, yet, you need to search J15 Forged Blade and see one of the most beautiful heads to hit the market in a very, very long time.
As for LH equipment, it is my understanding that at least three of the new models will be available in LH. We are seeing just three models in this thread, but there is the blade as well as a cast version of the J15 coming out, as well.
You don’t have to like the brand, the funky terminology or the logo, but for those who know Bridgestone, this is a HUGE move to put some of the best equipment in golf into the hands of the everyday golfer in the USA.
My order for the driver, 3-wood, 19* hybrid and 3-PW of the J15-DF irons was placed a month or so ago. Yeah, you could say I am a believer.
LaMont in AZ
LaMont
9 years ago
I stand corrected. Only the J15CB will be available in LH, for 2015. IMHO, if you had to pick just one set to bring LH, they did a damned fine job.
Also, I work out of the shop that sends fitters to the GOLF Magazine’s event that tests new products in the hands of amateur golfers in Floriday, every year. They came back with some very positive views of the new J15 line-up. It was great to hear that what is on the way, may be their best offering since the J33 launch, years ago.