Nike forged blades v. pro combo tours

BCULAW · November 28, 2005

who hit both and which did you prefer?

I am currently playing titleist 690mbs, and enjoy hitting them, but I need an extra set for kicks. I am torn between these two sets to complete my backup bag. Who has hit both, and what did you like/dislike about each. Mainly interested in input on feel and sole design - specifically input geared towards these two questions:

1. I understand that the original nike irons were forged by endo through Bridgestone, but the newer models were forged in China. Has this affected the feel of the clubs? I can get an older set of the forged blades if the endo sets were significantly better feeling. However, I hate the medallions on the original PCs, so I would only consider the newer tour models, which are forged in China. How is the feel of the PC tour in comparison to the older PC model?

2. I really prefer a sole to cut through the turf rather than glide/bounce. I play in very firm courses in Tampa, FL, and blunted soles tend to bounce on the turf - even in the fairway. I tend to gravitate towards blades since they generally have a bit sharper edge than most cavity back offerings. However, I understand that the pro combo tour sole has been redesigned with a bit sharper leading edge. How would you describe the sole design of each, and which would "cut" through the turf better.

Thanks for the input. I know I should just demo, but I have VERY limited playing time, and hate wasting it on the range. Besides, the "hunt" is the most fun for me, and input from you guys is the best way to research golf clubs, IMO.

DBake · November 28, 2005

Mizuno MP60 or 32's :tongue:

bogeymachine · November 29, 2005

bculaw, I'm playing the old ('04) PC now. Wanted to get the PC Tour for the same reason as you (aesthetics and sole grind), but couldnt pass up the big discount I got on the old PC.

Havent hit PC tour before, but having played MP33 for 3 years and normally take lots of divots I'd say the PCs do bounce/glide a bit, but much less than I was afraid they would. I now get shallower with nice looking (and nice feeling) dollar bill shape divots on some of the tightest fairways around my area. 8-pw are just like blades. Mid and long irons are a breeze to hit. Very happy with these PCs.

So, if PC Tour really has an improved or redesigned sole design then I think it must be even better. I have no info about the different forging feels though. .....Btw, just for your reference, I'm playing off 6-7.

Hope this helps.....

cheers,

BCULAW · December 1, 2005

Anyone else?

GolfSLO · December 1, 2005

I just hit both last weekend at a Nike Demo Tour. I've never hit the "old" forged clubs. I'm leaning towards the combo set because they are soooo forgiving. I hit one 6-iron after another long and straight down the middle. The forged irons were not as forgiving, but they sure look nice and boy do they feel great when you hit 'em right! I'd be happy with either set.

BCULAW · December 1, 2005

Thanks for the input. I actually had the chance to hit the new PC Tours today on the course, and came away VERY impressed. I had not hit the PCs with dgs300s previously, and was blown away by the feel of these irons. MUCH better feeling than with the original stock speedsteps, and I have traditionally found dgs very harsh. I loved the short and mid irons, and found the long irons reasonably forgiving. The soles are improved over the originals- I had no problems with digging or bouncing. Just nice, clean divots. I hit wonderful iron shots all day long with these, and they will likely be in the bag by the weekend unless the blades blow me away. Actually, I will probably keep the 690mbs in the bag for 6-8 weeks while I get the PCs refinished in satin!!!