Equipment Review: KZG Forged Evolution Irons, by Jeffrey Reed

Last season, we here at London Ontario Golf familiarized ourselves with high-quality clubs from KZG, a North Hollywood, California-based manufacturer that is anything but Hollywood. That is, there’s much more than glitz, glamour and cheap talk from this clubmaker. The 460cc Gemini Driver is winning accolades for its unique duo-featured explosive distance and pinpoint control. Introduced at the 2004 PGA Merchandise Show, the forged Evolution irons are gaining momentum, too, thanks to innovation and performance.

We’ve written before here at London Ontario Golf about the trend to combine forgiveness and playability in an iron: the best of both worlds – a combo iron allowing shot-shaping and ease of use. Primarily aimed at mid-handicappers, as are (for example) Wilson Staff’s new Ci6 Control irons, the Evolution line truly does provide something for most every golfer. Here’s why.

The forged Evolution irons are the ultimate in a blended forged iron set. Each and every iron, from 3-PW (AW and SW sold separately) is individually designed. The perimeter-weighted cavity back design of the long irons offer maximum distance and accuracy. The mid-irons are a hybrid between cavity and blade, maximizing the benefits of both. The short irons offer maximum control and feel. You won’t find a prettier looking set than the Evolution irons.

The real proof in the pudding is, although these clubs have won numerous awards, including the prestigious ING Industry Award for product ingenuity in forged irons, the Evolution set continues to roll off the tongue of the consumer. It’s a set that will stand the test of time, and for solid reasons. KZG’s irons are double forged, handcrafted and hand finished to perfection. Even after a painstakingly perfect forging, each club head is shaped and ground to precise specs. Don’t take my word for it: visit your local pro shop or retailer and see for yourself.

The Evolution irons are a perfect blended set, progressing from mid-size cavity to blade. As a low-handicapper who’s not getting any younger (Jack Benny was onto something with his eternal 39th birthday) I appreciate the feel and workability of these gorgeous clubs. The natural progress in design certainly will appeal to golfers of all abilities other than true beginners, who should be playing hybrids instead of 3- and 4-irons anyways. But for the majority of golfers, from the Touring pro to the weekend warrior, this set is a winner.

True Temper Dynamic Gold shafts, and Lamkin Crossline grips round out my set of Evolution irons. As an industry professional, my golf bag is like a box of chocolates: you never know what you’re gonna’ get (another movie line, I know, but KZG does hail from Hollywood). But here’s betting the Evolution irons will stand the test of time.

For more information on KZG, visit www.kzgolf.com.