EPON AF-506 Irons & EPON EF-02I Irons Reviews
<Left> EF-02I <Right> AF-506
Recently, I had the opportunity to compare two EPON irons.
The irons I tested were the AF-506 and the EF-02I.
<Top> N.S.PRO 950GH neo (EF-02I)
<Bottom> N.S.PRO MODUS3 TOUR 120 (AF-506)
<Left> EF-02I Specifications
– Loft: 29°
– Club Length: 37 inches
– Shaft Flex: R
– Shaft Weight: 94.5g
– Balance: D0
– Torque: 1.9
– Kick Point: Mid
– Total Weight: 408g
<Right> AF-506 Specifications
– Loft: 31°
– Club Length: 36.75 inches
– Shaft Flex: S
– Shaft Weight: 114g
– Balance: D2.5
– Torque: 1.7
– Kick Point: Mid-High
– Total Weight: 429.5g
A showcase of EPON irons.
Both irons are automatic-style clubs with excellent quality and a premium feel.
Golf clubs are primarily tools for hitting the ball, but they also serve the purpose of providing visual enjoyment. These two irons excel in that regard as well.
Beautiful clubs are a feast for the eyes, and no matter how often you look at them, they never lose their charm.
Both irons feature a pocket cavity design, though their styles differ slightly.
The topline thickness is almost identical between the two.
The sole width is also similar, but the EF-02I (with its black head) appears slightly longer.
There’s a noticeable difference in neck length, with the AF-506 (right) being slightly longer.
The clubfaces also exhibit differences.
The AF-506 has a relatively natural appearance, while the EF-02I has a rounded topline.
The rounded shape of the EF-02I reminds me of the metal contracting as it cools after heating.
I personally prefer the look of the AF-506, but I believe many golfers will appreciate the EF-02I for its more forgiving appearance.
Both clubs are equipped with the same grips.
The EPON logo is simply irresistible!
AF-506
EF-02I
Setting up to the ball, the differences are clear.
The AF-506 offers a more traditional and natural setup, while the EF-02I has noticeable offset.
I found myself wishing EPON’s muscle back or half-cavity irons came in a black finish as well.
Testing Begins
The “feel” of the EF-02I was slightly softer.
In terms of “launch ease,” the EF-02I seemed to have a slight edge, but the AF-506 was also very easy to launch.
Both clubs, despite their 5-iron-like lofts, make it incredibly easy to hit high, towering shots, which speaks volumes about technological advancements.
They offer the height of a 7- or 8-iron with the distance of a 5-iron.
Years ago, I had to train hard to master long irons like the 5- and 4-irons, but today’s technology eliminates that necessity.
Neither club feels demanding at all.
When it comes to “stability,” both clubs excel equally.
These irons are extremely forgiving, ensuring consistent results even with minor mishits.
Simply making contact with the ball on the face results in high, straight shots.
In terms of “distance performance,” the EF-02I seems to have a slight advantage, likely due to its loft.
If they had the same loft, I suspect the difference would be negligible.
Regarding “workability,” the AF-506 has a slight edge, but both irons lean towards a more forgiving, automatic style.
These irons are designed for consistent ball flights with minimal effort required.
Easy to use and visually stunning—that’s my impression of these two irons.
They’re not only long but also incredibly stable.
EPON clubs stand out for their quality and aesthetics, from drivers to putters.
You can tell these clubs are crafted with care, making them a joy to test.
Both irons are exceptional, but if I had to choose, I’d pick the AF-506 without hesitation..
EPON Cavity Iron Selection Guide: A Comprehensive Overview
Understanding EPON Cavity Irons
EPON is renowned for crafting high-quality, forged irons that offer a blend of performance and feel. Their cavity irons, in particular, are popular among golfers seeking a balance of forgiveness and workability. When selecting an EPON cavity iron, several key factors should be considered:
1. Skill Level:
Beginners and High-Handicap Players: Models like the AF-7 series offer a larger sweet spot and higher launch for increased forgiveness.
Mid-Handicap Players: The AF-5 series provides a good balance of distance and control, making it a versatile option.
Low-Handicap Players: The AF-3 series is designed for players who prioritize feel and workability, offering a smaller profile and more traditional shaping.
2. Desired Shot Shape:
Draw Bias: Look for models with a slightly stronger loft and more offset to promote a draw.
Fade Bias: Models with a weaker loft and less offset can help produce a fade.
Straight Shots: A neutral model with a balanced offset and loft will provide a straighter ball flight.
3. Shaft:
Flex: Choose a flex that matches your swing speed. A stiffer shaft will generally produce higher ball speeds and lower launch, while a softer shaft will provide more feel and a higher launch.
Weight: A heavier shaft can promote stability and control, while a lighter shaft can increase clubhead speed.
4. Loft:
Higher Lofts: Offer more forgiveness and higher launch, making them suitable for players who struggle with distance.
Lower Lofts: Provide more control and workability, making them ideal for players who want to shape their shots.
5. Feel and Sound:
Soft Feel: EPON irons are known for their soft, forged feel. However, specific models may offer slightly different sensations.
Sound: Listen for a solid, satisfying sound at impact.
Pay Attention to Your Body: Notice how your body feels during the swing and how the ball reacts at impact.
Popular EPON Cavity Iron Models:
AF-3 Series: Forged cavity back iron designed for players seeking a blend of performance and feel.
AF-5 Series: A versatile cavity back iron that offers a forgiving yet workable design.
AF-7 Series: A game-improvement cavity back iron with a larger sweet spot and higher launch.
Conclusion
Choosing the right EPON cavity iron is a personal decision that depends on your individual needs and preferences. By carefully considering the factors outlined above and seeking professional advice, you can find the perfect set of irons to help you improve your game.
Additional Tips:
Read Reviews: Online reviews can provide valuable insights from other golfers who have used EPON irons.
Visit a Demo Day: Attend a demo day to try out the latest EPON models.
