Epon AF-301 and Scratch AR-1 comparison pics

bjp1 · January 16, 2008

This is likely only of interest in this forum, but I thought I'd post a few pics that I've taken comparing the sole and look at address of the Epon AF-301 and Scratch AR-1.

I was originally displeased with the offset on the AF-301's, particularly because of it being a compact head. The two didn't seem to go together. Anyway, when comparing them to the AR-1's, it's not as bad. Still not preferred, but not as bad. Enjoy the pics.

Brian

AF-301 on left, AR-1 on right

mkb3245 · January 16, 2008

BJP, have you hit the Epon's? What are your thoughts in comparison to the AR-1s? I've got some AR-1 demos (thanks by the way) and have had one range session so far. I'm not sure they will unseat my NC-1s at this time, but they were definitely SOLID.....The EZ-1s went a little too high for me. I've considered the Epon 501s.......

Just curious as to how you would compare the two you've pictured (other than the offset.)......

Thanks.

CRutherford · January 16, 2008

I love the AR-1's. Thanks for the comparison pics.

bjp1 · January 16, 2008

I own both sets, but didn't play the AF-301's extensively. Unfortunately, the expectations I had for the Epon's did not bear out. I had issues with the offset and overall feel. I've gone through 4 different shaft types in order to find something that accentuated the feel of the clubhead because it was really unimpressive in my opinion. Tried Black Gold, Dynamic Gold, Wishon Series 5, and True Temper GS75. The GS75 stayed in at the recommendation of my clubbuilder. They feel pretty good now, but I moved on to the AR-1's during the period of trying different shafts.

I did find them relatively forgiving for a compact head. The trajectory was mid-high, and the sole grind is decent. As a sweeper/slider type, I had a few challenges with the sole bounce. I might have stayed with the AF-301's if I had the opportunity to demo them as extensively as I did the AR-1's.

My AF-301's also have my screenname engraved on them, so they'll at least be placed in a collector's case since I'm not playing them.

Brian

Viking Golfer · January 17, 2008

Thanks for the pics and the information - much appreciated

How do you like the Scratch irons and do you plan on buying Scratch wedges too - I see you have no wedges in your players bag profile ?

bjp1 · January 17, 2008

[quote name='ClubHoUno' post='867938' date='Jan 17 2008, 10:34 AM']Thanks for the pics and the information - much appreciated :cheesy: :clapping:

How do you like the Scratch irons and do you plan on buying Scratch wedges too - I see you have no wedges in your players bag profile ?[/quote]

Claus,

I'm happy with the Scratch irons. I've always wanted a set, so that goal is accomplished. They perform well for me, particularly with the KB Tour shafts.

However, I'm a true MP-60 fan. Right out of the box they work for me, and I've played some of my best golf with them. I've tried nearly everything OEM, JDM or Custom, so my appetite for something different is waning fast. Will likely go back to the tried and true before the season starts. But, the Scratch irons will stay around for good measure.

No Scratch wedges on the horizon right now. My Zodia's are dialed in.

Brian

Viking Golfer · January 17, 2008

[quote name='bjp1' post='868065' date='Jan 17 2008, 06:02 PM'][quote name='ClubHoUno' post='867938' date='Jan 17 2008, 10:34 AM']Thanks for the pics and the information - much appreciated :clapping:

How do you like the Scratch irons and do you plan on buying Scratch wedges too - I see you have no wedges in your players bag profile ?[/quote]

Claus,

I'm happy with the Scratch irons. I've always wanted a set, so that goal is accomplished. They perform well for me, particularly with the KB Tour shafts.

However, I'm a true MP-60 fan. Right out of the box they work for me, and I've played some of my best golf with them. I've tried nearly everything OEM, JDM or Custom, so my appetite for something different is waning fast. Will likely go back to the tried and true before the season starts. But, the Scratch irons will stay around for good measure.

No Scratch wedges on the horizon right now. My Zodia's are dialed in.

Brian
[/quote]

OK, Zodiacs are nice wedges....very nice :rofl:

Did you just add them to your profile now or did I miss them :cheesy:

I also owned the Mp-60, but I preferred the Mp-32, so sold my Mp-60 - but both sets are great retail sets, among the best you can get retail.

Best retail set for me currently surprisingly is the cast weird designed Taylor Made R7 Tp irons. Best cast irons I've ever played with in my life and definitely top 3 over best sets for me, cast or forged. I just seem to have great confidence, when playing with this set.

I'm tuning in on either the new Callaway Endo Forged X-Prototype irons or the Miura Cb-202/Tour Blade.

Best Regards,
Claus :rofl: