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When it comes to iron testing, the spotlight usually falls on the models that finish first overall or dominate a single category such as distance. But buried just below the winners are irons that quietly deliver balanced, across-the-board performance without the hype. In MyGolfSpy’s 2025 iron tests, several of these “underrated” options consistently showed strong results in accuracy, forgiveness and overall playability, even if they didn’t walk away with the crown.
This guide highlights seven irons that deserve more attention, explaining why they stood out in testing, what makes them a smart choice for real golfers and where the trade-offs lie.
Mizuno JPX 925 Hot Metal: Finished runner-up in the 2025 Game-Improvement test with high marks in both distance and forgiveness. Missed out on the top spot due to slightly lower accuracy, but testers noted its solid feel and traditional Mizuno shaping.
Callaway Elyte HL: Ranked second overall in the 2025 Game-Improvement test, with strong accuracy and dependable forgiveness. It fell short of the top spot because a few models offered more distance, but it’s a great fit for mid-handicap golfers who value consistency over raw yardage.
COBRA KING Tec X: Posted an 8.6 overall score in MyGolfSpy’s 2025 Game-Improvement test with balanced results across the board — Accuracy (8.5), Distance (8.6) and Forgiveness (8.7). It didn’t win best overall, but it was also picked as the best for both looks and feel.
Honma TW Px: Runner-up in Player’s Distance with very even scoring across accuracy, distance and forgiveness. The only drawback is limited availability, which kept it from broader recognition.
Tommy Armour 845+: Runner-up in Super Game-Improvement in 2025 and strong in 2024 testing. Excellent accuracy/forgiveness, a touch short on distance, but its budget-friendly price makes it one of the best value picks.
Srixon ZXi5: Finished near the top of the 2025 Player’s Distance test with no glaring weakness. It wasn’t the longest or most forgiving, but steady scoring across every category made it one of the most balanced irons in the field. Ideal for golfers who want a clean look with dependable all-around performance.
New Level 702+ (Honorable Mention): Finished just outside the top 10 in MyGolfSpy’s 2025 Player’s Distance test. Still, the 702+ earns a spot here because fitters and golfers consistently highlight its build quality, feel and customization options. For players willing to go through a proper fitting, it can perform above its test ranking.
For more detailed information about each of these tests, check out our complete 2025 best golf iron testing results:
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Britt Olizarowicz is a scratch golfer, former teaching professional and one of MyGolfSpy’s leading voices on equipment testing and golf performance. She has spent more than 15 years working at private clubs in New York and Florida and now specializes in translating test data and swing mechanics into practical advice for everyday golfers. Britt began playing at age 7 and has never left the game. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her on the course, playing pickleball, cooking, running or out on the boat with her family.
| Driver Callaway Triple Diamond Max | 5 Wood Callaway Epic Speed |
| 4 Hybrid Titleist TSR2 | Irons Titleist T-250 (6-PW) Titleist T-350 (5) |
| Wedges Titleist Vokey SM10 (52, 56, 60) | Putter Scotty Cameron Newport |
9 months ago
I clicked fully knowing that I would see the Tommy Armour irons on here. They will end up in my bag soon.
OpMan
9 months ago
I wish that the Honma would have a 4 iron (which would be a 3 iron in normal labelling)
KOG
8 months ago
They do. Just a special order like the AW/11 iron. You can find them on ebay