EPON AF-307 Irons

Test-Hit Review: EPON AF-307 Irons — Premium S20C Forged Cavity for Golfers Who Want a High-Quality Cavity-Back

The other day, I test-hit this golf club.

The club I tested was the EPON AF-307 iron in 7-iron.

The shaft was N.S.PRO MODUS3 TOUR 120 (S).

The loft is 32 degrees, the shaft flex is S, the club length is 36.75 inches, the swing weight is D1, and the total club weight is 426 g.

This is a new model in EPON’s 300 series.

The 300 series represents orthodox cavity-back irons, and many models in this line deserve to be called classics.

Among them, the most memorable for me is the AF-301 irons.

When I first test-hit the EPON AF-301, I loved it and felt a strong urge to buy, but at that time “square grooves” were about to be prohibited, so I gave up because the AF-301 would eventually become non-conforming.

I also tested the successor, the AF-302 irons, and thought they were excellent, but I personally preferred the AF-301.

Because of that history, I always keep an eye on the 300 series, and it’s easy to imagine that this AF-307 is the successor to the EPON AF-306 irons.

It’s a beautiful, sharp-looking cavity-back.

The forged carbon steel texture is excellent, and the cavity-back design is also beautiful—very tasteful.

Cavity depth is standard—what I’d call a normal cavity-back.

The hitting area is slightly thickened, suggesting the design prioritizes feel as well.

Topline thickness is standard and very EPON-like.

Sole width is standard.

You could describe the sole geometry as a soft “C” shape.

It appears to arc slightly to the right, which hints at easy face rotation and ball pickup; many modern irons share this trait.

Even at a glance you can see significant relief on both the leading and trailing edges.

That’s somewhat unusual for EPON irons, but it’s arguably mainstream now.

The sole has a gentle, rounded contour.

The shaved leading and trailing edges stand out and promise clean turf interaction.

From a different angle, the relief on both the leading and trailing edges is even more pronounced.

There’s nothing sloppy about the finishing—impeccably clean in true EPON fashion.

Hosel length also appears standard.

From this angle, you can clearly see the degree of offset; this iron looks very close to straight.

This area on the back face stands out visually.

I wonder what functional purpose it serves—or whether it’s purely a design element.

There’s no face milling; it looks conventional.

Nothing appears to have been specially added to the face treatment.

I feel a sense of familiarity with the count of “13 scorelines.” For a 7-iron, 13 just feels right to me.

Of course, more or fewer are fine as long as they comply with the Rules, but I’ve grown accustomed to 13 and like it best.

The EPON-logo grip looks very stylish.

It has a backline.

With a few practice swings I dialed in my timing right away.

Irons are “targeting clubs,” so I want zero wasted motion and rock-solid stability—and the MODUS meets that need beautifully.

Over the ball, it’s unmistakably EPON.

Beautiful looks are a given, but this head still reassures me the moment I set it down—classic EPON confidence.

Nothing feels gimmicky or distracting.

If the heel were any bulkier, it might look clumsy, but this is right on the safe side.

With irons, it’s crucial not only to picture a straight shot but also to visualize curvature—and this head makes both images easy.

For me the ratio of straight-ball image to shaping image is about 3:7.

If offset is too strong or the topline is overly curved, I start to see too much draw bias, but that’s not the case here.

Beyond that, there’s a certain refinement—an understated elegance.

Testing began.

Feel at impact is soft and very pleasing.

There’s no harsh vibration—just calm, composed feedback.

It doesn’t have the heavy “thud” of an MB, but there’s also none of that springy, clicky rebound—impact is smooth and unhurried.

The feel perfectly matches the premium build, which doubles the charm.

“Gentle ball contact,” “a nice sense of dwell on the face,” and a “carrying rather than striking” sensation.

You get all three.

With this feel, I believe the more you play it, the more precisely you’ll be able to execute shots.

On ease of launch, I’d call it normal to easy.

At address the loft looked a touch strong to my eye, but on course it launched nicely.

Unlike many ultra-easy irons today, there’s no overpowering assist, so a certain level of swing speed may be helpful.

Depending on the shaft, I’d say a head speed of about 43 m/s or higher is ideal.

Stability is high, and you can clearly feel the forgiveness typical of a cavity-back.

These days you see a lot of hollow bodies and pocket cavities, but for me, a normal cavity like this is more than enough.

Because the feel is so good, it’s easy to sense strike location, and when you pure it, the feel and ball flight are outstanding.

At address I imagined shaping the ball, yet most shots actually flew nearly straight, with a touch of built-in forgiveness.

Handsome yet easy—truly a best-of-both-worlds iron.

Workability is high, and response is quick.

By default it wants to produce a near-straight ball, but when you need to shape it, it listens—hugely helpful on the course.

Relentlessly hitting only straight shots is one form of stability, but consistently producing your preferred shot shape is also stability.

I’d say it’s essentially an automatic iron that turns manual on command.

Adapting to different situations is part of its charm.

Distance is normal to slightly long, but among today’s irons it’s not a pure distance specialist.

If you care a bit about distance yet mainly want to “hit your number,” this iron will fit you well.

With the 7-iron loft at 32 degrees, it’s outside my personal preference—I like 34° or more for a 7-iron—so I wouldn’t bag it for that reason alone.

Aside from that, I have no real complaints.

This test reminded me what makes EPON’s cavity-backs so good.

I hear stainless-steel irons are very popular now, but for me, soft forged is king—I don’t buy anything else.

EPON offers a wide variety of irons, but the 300 series feels the most balanced—the best mix of strengths.

It balances great looks with ease of use.

Naturally the feel is excellent, and it’s easy to handle.

There’s also the satisfaction of playing a coveted brand like EPON.

It’s an iron you won’t get tired of—even in the long run.

On top of that, turf interaction has improved a lot, so I expect real benefits on the course.

It preserves the cool look while pushing ease of use further.

I’m excited to see what EPON brings next.

☆

Ease of Setup…☆☆☆☆☆
Feel…☆☆☆☆
Ease of Launch…☆☆☆
Stability…☆☆☆☆
Distance…☆☆☆
Controllability…☆☆☆☆☆

※ (Maximum 100 points)
1 ☆ = 0-20 points
2 ☆ = 21-40 points
3 ☆ = 41-60 points
4 ☆ = 61-90 points
5 ☆ = 91-100 points

EPON Golf Official Online Shop

*Addition: Introduction to this club (I researched this club after writing this article)

EPON AF-307 Iron: Complete Performance Review and Buyer’s Guide

From the official EPON page

The EPON AF-307 represents a carefully engineered evolution in forged cavity back iron design, combining the traditional craftsmanship of S20C carbon steel with modern performance technologies. Manufactured by Endo Manufacturing—one of Japan’s most respected forging houses since 1950—this iron delivers a compelling balance of workability and forgiveness for skilled players seeking premium feel without sacrificing stability.

What Makes the EPON AF-307 Different

The AF-307 sits strategically in EPON’s lineup as their players cavity back offering, replacing the well-regarded AF-306 model. Unlike pure muscle back designs that demand exceptional ball-striking consistency, or game-improvement irons that prioritize distance over feel, the AF-307 occupies the middle ground where accomplished golfers can find both shot-shaping capability and mishit tolerance.

Construction and Materials

At its core, the AF-307 features one-piece forged construction using S20C carbon steel, a material prized in premium iron manufacturing for its soft, responsive feel at impact. This isn’t a two-piece design with welded components or inserted faces—it’s forged from a single billet of steel, maintaining structural integrity and delivering the pure feedback that better players demand.

The cavity back design incorporates strategically placed tungsten weights in both the toe and hosel regions. This dual-tungsten configuration represents an upgrade from the AF-306, which featured tungsten only in the toe. By positioning denser tungsten material on both sides of the clubhead, EPON’s engineers achieved two critical performance objectives: increased moment of inertia for greater forgiveness on off-center strikes, and reduced center of gravity distance from the shaft axis for enhanced shot control.

Technical Specifications

The AF-307 is available in seven lofts, from 4-iron through pitching wedge. Here are the official specifications from EPON:

Loft Progression:

• 4-iron: 23°
• 5-iron: 26°
• 6-iron: 29°
• 7-iron: 32°
• 8-iron: 36°
• 9-iron: 40°
• Pitching Wedge: 45°

Lie Angles:

• 4-iron: 60.5°
• 5-iron: 61°
• 6-iron: 61.5°
• 7-iron: 62°
• 8-iron: 62.5°
• 9-iron: 63°
• Pitching Wedge: 63.5°

Offset Measurements:

• 4-iron: 3.5mm
• 5-iron: 3.3mm
• 6-iron: 3.1mm
• 7-iron: 2.9mm
• 8-iron: 2.7mm
• 9-iron: 2.5mm
• Pitching Wedge: 2.2mm

The standard configuration pairs the AF-307 heads with Nippon N.S.PRO MODUS3 TOUR 105 shafts in stiff flex, creating a 5-iron that weighs 409 grams with a swing weight of D1.5. Standard 5-iron length measures 38 inches using the 60-degree measurement method.

These specifications reveal several important characteristics. The loft progression provides traditional 3-4 degree gaps between consecutive clubs, avoiding the aggressive loft jacking seen in distance-oriented irons. The lie angles progress in consistent half-degree increments, allowing proper fitting across different player heights and swing characteristics. The offset decreases progressively from long to short irons, providing launch assistance in harder-to-hit clubs while maintaining workability in scoring irons.

Performance Characteristics and On-Course Behavior

Feel and Feedback

The S20C carbon steel construction delivers the signature soft feel that distinguishes forged irons from cast alternatives. At impact with center strikes, players experience a muted, satisfying sensation—often described as “buttery” in golf terminology—that provides clear feedback about strike quality without harsh vibration.

Independent testing by GolfWRX’s Club Junkie review program confirmed this characteristic, noting that toe strikes—a common miss pattern for many golfers—produced noticeable feedback while maintaining reasonable distance control. The reviewer, testing with a 7-iron aimed at a 160-yard target, found that mishits still produced consistent carry distances, though the tactile response clearly indicated strike location.

Distance Control and Consistency

The AF-307’s traditional loft structure produces predictable, controllable distances rather than inflated carry numbers. With a 7-iron lofted at 32 degrees, players can expect distance performance roughly 5-10 yards shorter than game-improvement irons with 28-29 degree 7-iron lofts, but with tighter dispersion patterns and more consistent spin rates.

Launch characteristics trend toward moderate trajectory—higher than pure muscle backs due to the lower center of gravity from the cavity design, but not as towering as super game-improvement models. This flight pattern performs well in varied wind conditions and provides players the ability to flight shots up or down as needed.

Workability and Shot Shaping

The reduced center of gravity distance—a direct result of the dual tungsten weight placement—enhances the iron’s responsiveness to face manipulation at impact. Better players can reliably produce controlled fades and draws by adjusting face angle and swing path, making the AF-307 suitable for course management strategies that require bending shots around obstacles or into specific pin positions.

The progressively decreasing offset through the set supports this workability. While the 4-iron’s 3.5mm offset helps square the face at impact for a club many players struggle with, the pitching wedge’s minimal 2.2mm offset allows precise trajectory and spin control on approach shots.

Forgiveness and Mishit Performance

Despite its players-oriented design, the AF-307 provides meaningful forgiveness compared to traditional blade designs. The tungsten weighting in the toe and hosel increases perimeter weighting, stabilizing the clubhead through impact on strikes away from center.

The GolfWRX review specifically noted consistency in spin, launch, and carry numbers across multiple shots, with less fluctuation than typically expected from players irons. This stability extends to both horizontal and vertical mishits, though the iron maintains enough feedback to help skilled players identify and correct swing flaws.

Spin Performance and Groove Technology

EPON incorporates laser milling across the entire face surface, creating micro-texture between the stamped grooves. This technology addresses a critical performance challenge: maintaining consistent spin rates in wet conditions when moisture can interfere with ball-club friction.

According to EPON’s technical documentation, the laser milled face produces spin rates in wet conditions that closely approximate dry-condition performance. This consistency becomes especially valuable in the short irons (8-iron through pitching wedge) where precise distance control depends on predictable spin behavior. Players can maintain their normal club selection and shot execution even when fairways are damp or light rain affects play.

Aesthetic Design and Visual Characteristics

The AF-307 represents a refinement of EPON’s design language, with several intentional changes from the AF-306 predecessor. The face height increases slightly, creating more proportionate visual balance at address—a change that many golfers found confidence-inspiring during testing. The topline, while remaining relatively thin as befits a players iron, features subtle sculpting that makes it appear lower on the hosel side, creating a cleaner, more streamlined look from the hitting position.

At address, the moderate cavity depth and progressive offset create a profile that falls distinctly between intimidating blade designs and bulky game-improvement appearances. The sole width provides sufficient turf interaction forgiveness without excessive width that might hinder shotmaking versatility.

The finish is assembled in Japan with attention to detail characteristic of premium EPON products. The clean lines and minimal branding reflect the understated aesthetic that appeals to players who prefer their equipment to demonstrate quality through performance rather than aggressive marketing graphics.

Who Should Play the EPON AF-307

Ideal Player Profile

The AF-307 targets skilled golfers who have developed consistent ball-striking ability but recognize the practical value of forgiveness technology. This includes:

Handicap Range: Single-digit handicappers through low teens (roughly 0-15 handicap) form the core target audience. Players in this range typically:

• Strike the center of the face with reasonable consistency but occasionally miss toward toe or heel
• Possess sufficient swing speed to generate appropriate launch conditions with 26-32 degree mid-iron lofts
• Value shot control and workability for course management strategies
• Appreciate feedback that helps diagnose swing characteristics

Swing Speed Considerations: While EPON doesn’t publish specific swing speed recommendations for the AF-307, the design characteristics suggest suitability for players generating:

• 85-100+ mph driver swing speed
• 75-88 mph 7-iron swing speed

These speeds allow proper shaft loading with the standard MODUS 105 shaft and adequate compression of the golf ball for optimal spin and launch. Players below these thresholds may struggle to achieve ideal trajectory, while faster swingers will find the design responsive to their power.

Playing Style: The AF-307 rewards golfers who:

• Shape shots intentionally rather than simply aiming at targets
• Value consistent distance gapping over maximum distance
• Prefer moderate trajectory over ultra-high launch
• Appreciate soft feel and clear feedback at impact
• Play in varied weather conditions where spin consistency matters

Players Who Might Look Elsewhere

The AF-307 isn’t universally suitable. Consider alternative options if you:

Need Maximum Forgiveness: Mid-to-high handicappers (18+ handicap) with inconsistent contact patterns would benefit more from EPON’s AF-507 or AF-707 models, which feature larger heads, more offset, and stronger lofts designed to minimize mishit penalties.

Prioritize Distance Over Feel: Players seeking maximum yardage should consider game-improvement designs with stronger lofts, thinner faces, and hollow-body construction. The AF-307’s traditional lofts deliver control rather than distance bragging rights.

Prefer Pure Blade Designs: Accomplished ball-strikers (scratch to plus handicaps) who demand the ultimate in workability and feedback might find the AF-307’s cavity design and forgiveness features unnecessary. EPON’s AF-Tour MB 3 muscle back would better serve this group.

Have Slower Swing Speeds: Golfers with driver speeds below 80-85 mph may struggle to generate adequate height and spin with the AF-307’s design. Lighter, more launch-friendly configurations would produce better results.

Require Specific Fitting: The standard build specification (MODUS 105 S, D1.5 swing weight) suits a specific player profile. Those needing extensive customization should work with authorized EPON fitters who can access the full range of shaft and build options.

Expected Distance Performance by Swing Speed

While individual results vary based on attack angle, dynamic loft, strike quality, and environmental conditions, here are reasonable distance expectations for the AF-307 based on typical carry distances:

Moderate Swing Speed Player (85 mph driver / 75 mph 7-iron)

• 4-iron (23°): 175-185 yards carry
• 5-iron (26°): 165-175 yards carry
• 6-iron (29°): 155-165 yards carry
• 7-iron (32°): 145-155 yards carry
• 8-iron (36°): 135-145 yards carry
• 9-iron (40°): 125-135 yards carry
• PW (45°): 115-125 yards carry

Above-Average Swing Speed Player (95 mph driver / 85 mph 7-iron)

• 4-iron (23°): 195-205 yards carry
• 5-iron (26°): 185-195 yards carry
• 6-iron (29°): 175-185 yards carry
• 7-iron (32°): 165-175 yards carry
• 8-iron (36°): 150-160 yards carry
• 9-iron (40°): 140-150 yards carry
• PW (45°): 125-135 yards carry

High Swing Speed Player (105 mph driver / 95 mph 7-iron)

• 4-iron (23°): 210-220 yards carry
• 5-iron (26°): 200-210 yards carry
• 6-iron (29°): 190-200 yards carry
• 7-iron (32°): 180-190 yards carry
• 8-iron (36°): 165-175 yards carry
• 9-iron (40°): 150-160 yards carry
• PW (45°): 135-145 yards carry

These figures assume optimal strike location, appropriate shaft selection, and normal weather conditions. The consistent 10-15 yard gaps between clubs reflect the traditional loft progression and facilitate straightforward club selection on the course.

Verified Strengths of the AF-307

Based on official specifications, professional reviews, and player feedback from verified sources:

Premium Forged Feel

The one-piece S20C carbon steel construction delivers authentic forged feedback that distinguishes premium from budget irons. Players consistently report satisfying impact sensation and clear communication of strike quality.

Balanced Performance Profile

The dual-tungsten weighting system successfully achieves the difficult balance between workability and forgiveness. Better players gain shot-shaping control without sacrificing stability on slight mishits—a combination that proves valuable during competitive rounds.

Consistent Spin Rates

The laser milled face technology demonstrably maintains spin performance in wet conditions, addressing a legitimate performance concern for players in humid climates or those competing in various weather.

Traditional Distance Gapping

The conservative loft structure produces predictable distance intervals between clubs, eliminating the guesswork that accompanies distance-oriented designs with compressed loft separations in the scoring clubs.

Refined Aesthetics

The enhanced face height and sculpted topline create confidence at address while maintaining the clean, understated appearance that accomplished players prefer.

Manufacturing Quality

Assembled in Japan by Endo Manufacturing—a company with 75 years of forging expertise—the AF-307 exhibits the build quality expected of premium irons, with consistent specifications and attention to detail.

Verified Limitations to Consider

No iron design suits every player or situation. The AF-307’s inherent characteristics include:

Limited Availability and Higher Cost

As a premium Japanese brand with limited North American distribution, EPON products command premium pricing and may require working with specialized retailers or direct import. This restricts impulse purchases and casual testing.

Standard Shaft Options

While custom builds are available through authorized dealers, the standard MODUS 105 S configuration suits a specific player profile. Those requiring different weights, flexes, or shaft characteristics must pursue custom orders, potentially extending lead times.

Not Maximum Distance Oriented

Players accustomed to modern game-improvement iron distances may initially perceive the AF-307 as “short” until recognizing that traditional lofts produce more consistent gapping. This requires mental adjustment and potentially different club selection strategies.

Feedback May Intimidate Improving Players

The clear communication of mishits—a strength for skilled players diagnosing swing issues—can feel harsh or punishing to mid-handicappers still developing consistent contact. This feedback, while informative, may undermine confidence during the improvement process.

Limited Long Iron Forgiveness

While the 7-iron through pitching wedge provide substantial forgiveness for players irons, the 4-iron and 5-iron remain challenging clubs requiring solid contact. Players who struggle with long irons might benefit from supplementing with hybrid alternatives.

Comparing the AF-307 to Alternatives

Understanding how the AF-307 relates to other options helps players make informed decisions:

Within the EPON Lineup

vs. AF-Tour CB2: The Tour CB2 offers a more refined, compact profile with less offset and a straighter topline. Players seeking maximum workability with minimal visual bulk should consider the CB2, while those wanting slightly more forgiveness should choose the AF-307.

vs. AF-507: The 507 features pocket cavity construction, an ultra-thin face, and stronger lofts aimed at moderate swing speed players who value distance and launch. The AF-307 provides more traditional performance for better ball-strikers who prioritize control.

vs. AF-707: The 707 represents EPON’s game-improvement offering with larger heads, more offset, and maximum forgiveness technology. The AF-307 targets significantly better players who don’t require such extensive assistance.

vs. AF-Tour MB 3: The MB 3 pure muscle back design delivers ultimate feedback and workability for elite ball-strikers. The AF-307 adds meaningful forgiveness through cavity construction for skilled players who occasionally miss center.

Compared to Major Manufacturer Alternatives

vs. Titleist T200: Both target better players seeking forgiveness, but the T200 employs hollow body construction with tungsten inserts for higher launch and more distance. The AF-307 offers more traditional feel and workability with moderate forgiveness.

vs. Mizuno JPX923 Forged: Similar target audience of skilled players wanting forged feel with forgiveness. The JPX features chromoly construction for distance, while the AF-307 uses soft carbon steel emphasizing feel and control.

vs. Callaway Apex: The Apex employs multi-material construction with tungsten and urethane for distance and feel. The AF-307’s one-piece forging provides more traditional feedback for players who prioritize purity.

vs. TaylorMade P790: The P790’s hollow body construction with SpeedFoam and forged face creates a distance-oriented players iron. The AF-307 delivers traditional performance characteristics without pursuing maximum yardage.

Shaft Recommendations and Fitting Considerations

While the standard MODUS 105 S configuration suits many players, EPON offers custom shaft options through authorized dealers:

For Moderate Swing Speed Players (85-90 mph driver)

• Nippon N.S.PRO MODUS3 Tour 105 R or SR flex
• True Temper Dynamic Gold 105 R300
• KBS Tour 90 R flex
• Target swing weight: D0-D1

For Average Swing Speed Players (90-100 mph driver)

• Nippon N.S.PRO MODUS3 Tour 105 S (standard)
• True Temper Dynamic Gold 120 S300
• KBS Tour 120 S flex
• Project X LZ 95 (6.0)
• Target swing weight: D1-D2

For High Swing Speed Players (100+ mph driver)

• Nippon N.S.PRO MODUS3 Tour 120 S or X
• True Temper Dynamic Gold X100
• KBS Tour 130 X flex
• Project X 6.5 or 7.0
• Target swing weight: D2-D3

Proper fitting should also evaluate lie angle based on dynamic impact position, as standard specifications assume average height and posture. Players with upright swings or shorter stature may benefit from 1-2 degrees upright, while taller players or those with flatter swings might require standard or flat adjustments.

Maintenance and Longevity Considerations

The S20C carbon steel construction requires appropriate care to maintain performance and appearance:

Cleaning and Storage

After each round, remove grass and debris from grooves using a plastic brush or tee. For deeper cleaning, use warm soapy water and a soft brush, then dry thoroughly to prevent rust. Never store irons in damp conditions—trunk storage during humid weather can promote oxidation.

Groove Maintenance

The laser milled face texture degrades gradually with use as ball contact wears the micro-texture pattern. Expect optimal spin performance for 40-60 rounds of typical use before noticing measurable spin reduction. The stamped grooves maintain structure longer but also wear with high-friction wedge-type shots.

Refinishing

Carbon steel irons can be professionally refinished to restore appearance, though this process removes material and should only be performed by experienced club repair specialists. Most players refinish every 2-3 years if maintaining original appearance is important.

Shaft and Grip Replacement

Steel shafts remain stable indefinitely if not bent or damaged. Replace grips annually for players practicing and playing 30+ rounds per season, as worn grips compromise control. Maintain swingweight during grip replacement by adjusting tip weights if necessary.

Real Player Feedback and Reviews

Verified reviews from credible sources provide valuable perspective on real-world performance:

GolfWRX Club Junkie Review (May 2025)

The independent GolfWRX review praised the AF-307’s “impressively soft feel and excellent forgiveness” while noting that “consistency is the name of the game with these irons.” The reviewer found that “spin, launch, and carry numbers just didn’t fluctuate nearly as much as expected” from a players-oriented design. Testing confirmed reliable distance control within 3-5 yards of a 160-yard target with the 7-iron, even on toe strikes.

GolfWRX Forum Member Reactions

Forum members with experience hitting the AF-307 described them as “phenomenal looking” with “perfect shaping, great topline, and an Edel-esque cambered sole.” Multiple users rated the aesthetic presentation as “10/10” and noted improved performance over the AF-306 predecessor.

Japanese Market Feedback

Reviews from Japanese golf media and retail shops consistently highlighted the AF-307’s reputation as potentially matching the acclaimed AF-507 in terms of overall quality and performance balance. Fitting specialists noted particular suitability for players seeking stability and control without sacrificing workability.

YouTube Reviews

Video reviews from equipment testers confirmed the soft forged feel and noted the irons’ ability to maintain consistent trajectory and spin rates across multiple test sessions. Reviewers emphasized the quality of Endo’s forging craftsmanship and the thoughtful weight distribution design.

Purchasing and Availability

The AF-307 is available through several channels:

Authorized North American Retailers

EPON Golf USA maintains a network of authorized dealers who can order custom specifications and provide fitting services. These specialists understand EPON’s product line and can properly fit players to the appropriate model and build.

Direct from Japan

Players familiar with Japanese market purchases can order through retailers like Daiichi Golf and specialty JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) golf shops. This often provides access to additional shaft options and may offer pricing advantages, though requires navigating language barriers and international shipping logistics.

Used Market

Given EPON’s premium positioning and limited production, used AF-307 sets appear occasionally in specialty markets and forum classifieds. Exercise caution regarding condition assessment—verify groove depth, face wear, and shaft integrity before purchasing.

Pricing Expectations

New AF-307 irons command premium pricing consistent with hand-forged Japanese irons, typically ranging $175-225 per club depending on shaft selection and build specifications. A standard 6-club set (5-PW) therefore represents a $1,050-1,350 investment before any customization.

Final Assessment

The EPON AF-307 successfully fulfills its design mandate: delivering premium forged feel and workability with modern forgiveness technology for skilled players who recognize the value of stability without sacrificing shot control. The dual-tungsten cavity design, laser milled face, and refined aesthetics create a compelling package for single-digit to low-teen handicappers seeking equipment that performs at a high level while providing meaningful assistance on slight mishits.

This is not an iron for casual golfers or those prioritizing maximum distance. It rewards consistent ball-striking with precise distance control, reliable spin rates, and responsive shot-shaping capability. The traditional loft structure and pure forged feedback appeal specifically to accomplished players who value control and consistency over inflated carry distances and forgiving but less responsive designs.

For players within the appropriate skill range, swing speed profile, and playing style preferences outlined in this review, the AF-307 represents a worthy investment that should provide years of satisfying performance. The quality of Endo’s forging craftsmanship, attention to design detail, and thoughtful performance characteristics justify the premium positioning for golfers who understand and value these attributes.

Players considering the AF-307 should arrange testing through authorized dealers to confirm the feel, appearance, and performance characteristics align with their expectations and needs. While specifications and reviews provide valuable information, personal experience with equipment of this caliber remains essential to making confident purchasing decisions.

Sources and References

All specifications, technical details, and performance characteristics referenced in this review were verified against the following official and credible sources:

1. EPON Golf Japan Official Website – Product specifications, technical features, and official photography
   https://epongolf.co.jp/product/af-307/

2. EPON Golf USA Official Website – North American specifications and product descriptions
   https://epongolf.us/products/irons/

3. GolfWRX AF-307 Launch Article – Product announcement and design details
   https://www.golfwrx.com/757920/epon-launches-new-af-307-players-cavity-iron/

4. GolfWRX Club Junkie Review – Independent testing and performance evaluation
   https://www.golfwrx.com/759706/epon-af-307-irons-review-club-junkie-reviews/

5. Endo Manufacturing Company Information – Manufacturer background and forging technology
   https://endo-mfg.co.jp/eng/biz_golf/

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