TaylorMade M6 Irons Review
My First Impressions
The TaylorMade M6 Irons felt balanced and of high-quality when I held, featuring a thick topline that suggested enhanced forgiveness. Its design is engineered to increase ball speed, which I anticipate will add that extra strength to my shots, potentially increasing my distance on the fairway.
The patented off-center Inverted Cone Technology is something that has my expectations running high. By maximizing the sweet spot, it will help achieve straighter shots more frequently, which will be valuable for me on course.
Who is it for ?
- Suitable for mid to high handicappers.
- Players seeking distance and forgiveness
- For seniors and slower swing speed players
- Those who want high launch
My Profile
- Average Score: 78
- Handicap: 8.5
- Hand Orientation: Right-Handed
- Golfing Experience: 8 years
Club I Used:
- Model Name: TaylorMade M6 Irons
- Club Tested: 5-iron, 7-iron, 8-iron
- Loft Setting: 21.5°, 28.5°,33°
- Shaft Type: Fujikura Atmos Orange
- Shaft Flex: Regular
My Test Conditions and Setup
Ball used: Bridgestone E6, Titleist Pro V1
Course and Range Facilities:
- Full 18-hole rounds were played at each of the noted courses, known for their varying layouts and challenges.
- Range sessions included use of driving range facilities with both mat and grass tees, as well as short game areas for chipping and putting.
Weather Conditions: Mild temperatures averaging 65°F, with light coastal breezes around 10 mph and moderate humidity.
On Course Performance Review
After several rounds, I have detailed my personal experience with these irons. Here’s my in-depth performance review:
Range of Shots Played:
- Long Shots: The M6 irons delivered consistently high and long shots, with the 5-iron in particular. I was able to achieve greater distance than my previous set, and the ball flight was stable even in crosswinds.
- Mid-Range Precision: Mid-irons maintained a satisfying balance between distance and accuracy. Shots felt controlled, and the irons were forgiving enough to keep slight mishits on line towards the target.
- Short Game Touch: For shorter shots, the M6 irons provided a soft feel, and I was pleasantly surprised by the level of precision I could achieve around the greens, including controlled chips that ran true.
Performance Off the Tee:
- Using the M6 irons off the tee, I experienced good distance, with the irons consistently delivering strong, penetrating ball flights.
- The trajectory was high yet controlled, and accuracy was noticeable, with shots landing close to the intended target line even on off-center hits.
Iron Play from the Fairway:
- From the fairway, the M6 irons performed well. Approach shots felt good with the perfect landing on the greens.
- However, the irons didn’t allow me to shape shots when needed and they were more biased towards straighter flight.
My Test Stats
In order to look deeper into my experience with the TaylorMade M6 Irons, I decided to test them out with the Skytrak simulator. Here are my results:
Parameters | Test Stats |
Ballspeed | 123.4mph |
Launch angle | 19.9 degree |
Backspin | 5040 rpm |
Side angle | 4.5 degrees |
Carry distance | 182 yds |
Total distance | 191 yds |
The first thing I noticed was the ball speed. At 123.4mph, it was clear that these irons are built for power and speed. Each shot felt swift off the face.
The launch angle of 19.9 degrees coupled with the increased ball speed, allowed for a higher trajectory, giving my shots more air time and subsequently more distance.
With a backspin rate of 5040 rpm, I found my shots had great control and stability in flight. This level of backspin helped maintain the trajectory of the ball, keeping it on course and reducing any unwanted lateral movement.
What I Liked about M6 Irons:
- Distance: The TaylorMade M6 Irons design facilitated a higher trajectory, meaning my drives were not just longer, but also more effective. Their consistency was great, ensuring that each shot was precise and reliable.
- Forgiveness: My less-than-perfect shots still ended up near my intended target. The fluted hosel and 360° undercut increased launch angle and ball speed, which translated to better distance and accuracy on the course.
- Playability: The versatility was evident, allowing me to easily shape shots when needed. The low CG and wider sole improved turf interaction, which was a confidence booster, especially in avoiding chunked shots.
- Launch: The M6 Irons provided high launch. The low center of gravity and Speed Bridge technology were combined to get the ball airborne with ease, resulting in a steep ascent that maximized carry distance. This high launch was consistent across the set, making it easier to clear hazards and land softly on greens.
- Spin: While the spin was lower than I’m used to, it did contribute to the distance the M6 Irons provided. On well-struck shots, the reduced spin helped in achieving a piercing ball flight, especially in windy conditions.
- Shaft Performance: The Fujikura Atmos Orange shaft offered a smooth, responsive feel that complemented the overall performance of the club. The regular flex of the shaft provided the right balance of control and power, making it a suitable choice for my swing speed.
What I Didn’t Like about M6 Irons:
- Distance Control: Their lower spin rate sometimes made it harder for me to control the distance with precision. This led to longer putts and required some adjustments in my approach, especially since I was used to irons that offered a higher spin rate.
- Shot Shaping: Despite the overall playability, I found that the M6 Irons limited my ability to shape shots with precision.
- Sound & Feel: The sound was satisfying, but the feel of the M6 Irons could be a bit hard upon impact. It required some adjustment from the softer feel I was accustomed to with other irons.
Alternatives
If you want to explore other game-improvement irons, here are some alternative options that I found to be worth considerering:
1. TaylorMade P7MC Irons
These irons serve as a considerable alternative by offering a mix of classic shaping with modern performance. Their compact grain forging provides enhanced feel and feedback, making them a great choice for players who value precision and control.
2. Wilson Staff Model CB Irons
These irons stand out due to their 20 grams of tungsten weighting, which helps lower the center of gravity and increase stability. They also feature a Tri-Brace stabilizer that provides a solid feel and sound while maintaining distance consistency.
My Take
The TaylorMade M6 Irons perform really well as game-improvement clubs. They offer increased distance and forgiveness without sacrificing on overall performance. These irons provide great value for money, making them a worthwhile investment for golfers