Since starting fresh with an entirely new set of clubs this year, I find myself steadily relying on a hybrid — instead of a 5-iron. Until now, I’ve never actually carried a hybrid in my bag on a full-time basis. And I’m blown away at how easy it is to hit. That said, I’m intrigued to try two new hybrids that are just hitting the market this month.
Callaway’s Epic ($280) sports a triaxial carbon composite crown that’s 65 percent lighter than titanium. Thus, more weight is placed in tungsten that’s used to optimize CG location and promote a high launch with low spin. The club’s “Hyper Speed Face Cup” boosts ball speed all across the face, for distance. And the sole’s raised rails glide smoothly across turf and through rough, so you can make solid ball contact from various turf conditions.
Cobra’s super game-improvement KING OS ($249) strives for high, forgiving shots. Its large sweet spot revs up ball speed and distance — even on off-center hits. The three base lofts are each adjustable by three degrees, making the large-and-wide club extra versatile. Its carbon fiber crown is also lightweight, allowing for internal tungsten weight usage that gets the CG low and deep.
Both models have inviting aesthetics, as well. And if they deliver on their distance promises, they’ll look even nicer.
Veteran golf writer Scott Kramer has covered the golf equipment market full-time since 1990. His career has spanned senior editor positions at both Golf Pro Magazine and GOLF Magazine. He now works on a freelance basis for many consumer and trade publications, including the SCGA’s FORE magazine.
