Cleveland CG16 Irons
Cleveland’s new CG16 irons are available with lightweight steel or graphite shafts, in either a Black Pearl or Satin Chrome finish. We tested the Satin Chrome irons on the range calibrating distances with a laser and comparing them to my gamers, Ping S56 irons, that I have played for about a year. The company claims that the large cavity back, with its full undercut, stretches the center of gravity low and deep to optimize launch angle and significantly improve forgiveness. The large, thin face allows for increased COR and maximum ball speed that will produce distance that competes with any iron set in the market – but with increased control.
Here’s the skinny. I hit the CG16 7 iron consistently 6 yards longer than with my S56. The ball flight is predicable. I can work a fade or draw. The shaft is 1/2 inch longer resulting in some of the distance gain, but the oversize club head seems to offset any deviation for off-center hits. The distance gain is a bit more on longer irons and a bit less on the scoring clubs. The CG 16 is solid with predictably a bit less feedback on off-center hits.
I really recommend the CG 16 for low to mid handicappers that want some distance with their irons. It is forgiving, but not visually cumbersome. The only negative is directed toward tournament players with a plus handicap. In really nasty, windy, wet conditions when tournament players have to go out, The little 3/4 punch shot becomes preeminent. The CG 16 requires some work and focus to keep the trajectory low on those awful days when competitive golfers just have to play.
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