7 Best 2 Irons to Gain More Distance

In this article you will find the best 2 irons golf clubs - from items that fit new players to pro-grade sport equipment
By
Phillip Ortiz
Phillip Ortiz
Expert Consultant
Phillip is a professional golf player who knows exactly what features to look for if you need perfect gear. Apart from golf, Phillip is fond of fishing and hunting.
reviewed
Reviewed By
Suzanne Holley
Suzanne Holley
Research Writer
Suzanne is a talented news reporter. She's also a freelance writer with our site being her major and most loved project. In her free time, Suzanne loves reading utopian nove read more
Last updated: August 13, 2023
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Using the right golf club is essential for a low score. Those that are on a shorter course may opt for a two-iron right from the tee box, or if you have a good first shot, a 2-iron can get you on to the putting green. There are many options for the best 2 irons and today we’ll be presenting you with all the information we have on the subject.

We’ve reviewed seven of the best 2 irons in golf and below we will describe our choices as well as why they excel and how they will help improve your game. The sport of golf has many subtle nuances and if you can find the right clubs, your game will be not only be better but more enjoyable, too.

Quick Summary

  • "The Callaway 2020 X forged utility iron is an impressive two iron with Callaway Metal Injection Molded tungsten"
  • Best for Mid Handicapper: Cobra Golf King Utility
    "If you want to hold that mid-range score and improve the swing and distance – this 2 irons golf club would be a perfect fit"
  • "Fairly priced 2 irons golf club with forgiving hollow construction, it offers increased accuracy and 18-degree loft"
  • Best for Launch Practice: WILSON Staff Model Utility
    "This heavy-faced 2 irons with 24-degree loft offers great forgiveness and height at launch"
  • Best Beginner 2 Irons: Ping G410
    "2 irons golf club for new players, it offers standard length and comfortable grip, the loft of the club is 23 degrees"
  • Best for Distance: TaylorMade Golf SIM UDI
    "Practicing distance with this 2 irons golf club is the easiest thing, it features C300 face that helps you shoot far and accurately"
  • Best Low Profile 2-Iron: TaylorMade P790
    "Player-friendly 2 irons golf club built with speed priority in mind, this club features hollow body construction that gives you much forgiveness"

Top 7 2 Irons Review 2024

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Features
  • Hand orientation: right
  • Shaft material: alloy steel
  • Flex: stiff
  • Loft:18°

More features: precise triple net forging, built-in 20V grooves

The Callaway 2020 X forged utility iron is an impressive two iron that has a medium size that lacks the massive size of other irons, but it is not super thin. It doesn’t have a super shallow face and it is a little offset with some sole visible behind the top line. While some utility irons have a long and low profile, the Callaway has a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. The 2020 X forged has no colored paint fulls, with just a basic cavity with a few shades of silver. However, the screwed in plate provides a visual centerpiece that highlights the Callaway Metal Injection Molded tungsten. This creates an attractive, yet solid, satisfying club that strikes well. If you do move away from the center of the face, it delivers a firm impact. This creates a thud sound that lets you know when you’ve hit a good shot.

The biggest difference between this and other two irons is the sole. The X forged has a fairly wide sole, which allows for higher launching and greater forgiveness of thin shots compared to a standard iron. If you need more elevation, it makes a great option. However, it is still quite low launching with minimal spin, so it is not particularly forgiving if you can’t get the speed for maximum distance.

    What are its best features?
  • Great aesthetics
  • Metal Injection Molded tungsten
  • Solid and satisfying that strikes well
    What could be improved?
  • Low launching if you can’t get the speed
  • Not the most forgiving iron.
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9.7
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Best for Mid Handicapper

Cobra Golf King Utility

Features
  • Hand orientation: right
  • Shaft material: Aldila Rogue Black 85H Graphite Shaft
  • Flex: stiff
  • Loft: 17.5°

More features: synthetic rubber grip, standard length

Most amateur golfers have a handicap that isn’t too high not low enough to be a competitor. These mid handicappers know their way around a golf course, can enter a local tournament, and generally have a lot of fun with their friends. If you fall into this category, then you will appreciate the Cobra Golf King Utility. It is a powerful 2-iron that will improve your shot without being too intimidating.

The Cobra Golf King Utility features a graphite shaft and tungsten steal weighting, so that it is lightweight but still offers plenty of power when you swing it. The loft is a bit lower than average, at 17.5 degrees, and while this can take a bit to get used to, you will appreciate the bold swing and distance it creates. You will definitely be able to hit far into the green with this 2-iron. One feature that stood out for us as we shot with the Cobra Golf King Utility was its grip. The synthetic rubber is soft and malleable, and when you hold it, you will understand how secure the club feels in your hands. As for the club face, it is nice and wide and there is a large sweet spot that offers plenty of forgiveness if you aren’t as accurate as you hope to be.

    What are our favorite features?
  • Large sweet spot offers forgiveness
  • grip is study but comfortable
    What could be better?
  • would be nice if there were other flex options
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Features
  • Hand orientation: right
  • Shaft material: graphite
  • Flex: stiff
  • Loft: 18°

More features: hollow construction, forged SUP10 face

If you had an unlimited budget, could arm yourself with state of the line golf clubs. However, most people operate under some sort of budget and this is where the Srixon Golf- ZX Utility comes into play. While it is not quite as lofty as other 2-irons on our list, it is still extremely powerful and impressive and for the price you pay, it is a great opportunity to improve your game at a reasonable price.

The Srixon Golf- ZX Utility features a graphite shaft and an 18-degree loft. We had no issues swinging this golf club and were impressed at how far and how accurate our balls landed. The Srixon Golf- ZX Utility has a fully hollowed design which means there is plenty of forgiveness when you shoot, which is a real bonus for those that are more hobbyists than pros at golf. As or for the flex, you can choose between regular, stiff, and extra stiff, which is great diversity. You can really tailor your golf club purchase to your needs, which further enhances the overall affordability of this iron. One of the reasons the Srixon Golf- ZX Utility is so impressive is the way it is constructed. Each part of the iron is made from a specialized material, such as the tungsten steel base and the carbon steel body. All these components work together to offer a smooth and powerful swing.

    Why is it special?
  • Different flexes to choose from
  • Affordable
  • Durable construction
    What are the flaws?
  • Grip isn’t very soft if you mishit
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4
Best for Launch Practice

WILSON Staff Model Utility

Features
  • Hand orientation: right
  • Shaft material: graphite
  • Flex: regular
  • Loft: 24°

More features: C300 maraging steel face, 7 grams weight

There’s a certain satisfaction when you hit your golf ball off a tee and it instantly goes soaring into the air. This is often a result of loft so it should come as no surprise that with a 24-degree loft, the WILSON Staff Model Utility is like hitting your ball up into space. Don’t worry, though, as your ball will remain on course and land exactly where you envision it to.

When we picked up the WILSON Staff Model Utility, we were amazed at the balance of the club. It is very lightweight but it doesn’t feel flimsy. Instead, it feels powerful. Then, when you swing it, it is like slicing right through air. The WILSON Staff Model Utility has a standard graphite shaft build and the head is made from steel which is solid and won’t bend or break. What is unique about the WILSON Staff Model Utility is that it features a regular flex rating. While you can also select a stiff flexibility, most of the other 2-irons on our list don’t have such an option and if you struggle with your handicap, it’s nice to know there is a regular flex option in a superior club. Yes, the WILSON Staff Model Utility is powerful but it is also forgiving and for hobbyist golfers, this is a really nice combination.

    What are its best features?
  • Can choose a regular flex rating
  • Incredibly lightweight
  • Offers some forgiveness with shots
    What could be improved?
  • Loft angle can take a bit to get used to
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5
Best Beginner 2 Irons

Ping G410

Features
  • Hand orientation: right
  • Shaft material: Mitsubishi Chemical Tensei CK Blue 80 Graphite
  • Flex: stiff
  • Loft: 23°

More features: standard length, 1° flat lie, standard grip

When you pick out a 2-iron, one feature to really pay attention to is the loft degree and with the Ping G410, you may be surprised that it features a loft of 23 degrees. This means that when you hit the ball it will go up down at more extreme angles than if you use an iron with a lower loft. This can be wither a positive or a negative, although when we tried the Ping G410, we certainly had no issues with the angle. Instead we found the club to have a smooth swing and as long as the ball is hit at the right intensity, you will definitely be able to hit quite the distance.

The Ping G410 has a graphite shaft, which seems to be standard with most modern golf clubs. The grip is also standard although that doesn’t mean it isn’t comfortable to hold. You’ll be able to get a firm grip on this club and swing with as much power as you can muster. As for the face of the club, it is made out of steel which is incredibly strong and durable. The face is nice and wide and you can definitely find your sweet spot quite easily. The Ping G410 is classified as a hybrid club, which means it has the best on offer that both a fairway and an iron can produce.

    What are its best features?
  • Durable hybrid club
  • Easy to grip and comfortable
    What could be improved?
  • High loft can take a bit to get used to
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6
Best for Distance

TaylorMade Golf SIM UDI

Features
  • Hand orientation: right
  • Shaft material: Diamana Thump 90 graphite
  • Flex: stiff
  • Loft: 18°

More features: C300 face, hollow body, 1 lbs weight

Even the best of golf players can use a bit of help when it comes to distance. If you just can’t hit your ball off the tee or want to lengthen your distance from the fairway, the TaylorMade Golf SIM UDI will help you achieve superior results. When we tried out this 2-iron, we noticed a definitive improvement in our shot length, which was a pleasant surprise.

The TaylorMade Golf SIM UDI is the second 2-iron on our list from TaylorMade and as you can tell, we really respect the brand. This golf club has an 18-degree loft that will get your ball soaring in no time. It has a graphite shaft that is incredibly light but still has enough strength behind it for those long hauls. The stiff flex means this is a club for the more professional golfers out there but don’t let this fact intimidate the hobbyists out there. When you hold the TaylorMade Golf SIM UDI, you will realize how comfortable it is and while it may take a few swings to get used to the balance, once you do you will be impressed with your new low score. There is also a larger sweet spot on the face so even if you aren’t as accurate as you wish, the golf club will still help you out.

    Why is it special?
  • Large sweet spot
  • Pushed ball into air at very fast speeds
  • Very lightweight and easy to grip
    What are the flaws?
  • Stiff flexibility means golf club is not meant for players with less experience
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8.7
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8.9
7
Best Low Profile 2-Iron

TaylorMade P790

Features
  • Hand orientation: right
  • Shaft material: graphite
  • Flex: stiff
  • Loft: 17°

More features: low profile tungsten weighting, hollow body construction, thru slot speed pocket

Quite simply, the construction of the TaylorMade P790 is incredible and when you first swing it, you will understand the power behind the craftmanship. We certainly were. The shaft is made from a lightweight but incredibly sturdy graphite material and the head of the club is made with tungsten steel which gives it a low profile. The stiff flexibility means you can hit with all the power you possess and the ball will hold true after you shoot it.

When it comes to brand names in golf TaylorMade is at the forefront. You can be assured that all their golf equipment has been heavily tested and the TaylorMade P790 is no exception. You will find that when you hit the ball with this 2-iron, the ball has a crisp loft to it. There is a large sweet spot on the front of the club which will allow you to angle the ball as you need to. The 17-degree golf club loft means there are no surprises as you tee off. Finally, what makes the TaylorMade P790 really stand out is the grip. The wrap-around grip is soft yet firm under your hands and you can feel comfortable as you line up your shot.

    What do we love it for?
  • Hits ball nice and straight
  • Comfortable grip
  • Very lightweight
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Some defective products but manufactured did replace them

Things to Consider

Every golf club in your bag should have a purpose and with a 2-iron you actually get two reasons to keep it around. Not only can you use a 2-iron from the tee box but it can also come in handy on the fairway. Below are some details and features you should be aware of so you can find the best 2-iron for your needs.

Benefits of 2 Irons

A 2-iron is needed for a few reasons. If you have a large distance to the green but not as long as other holes, a 2-iron is a good option. It will allow you to hit far into the fairway and set up a good shot onto the putting green.

Another benefit of a 2-iron is if your shot from the tee box isn’t as strong as it once was. In this case, you may want to use a 2-iron instead of a higher iron to give you a bit more power for your initial swing.

You will probably be familiar with drivers, which are larger clubs and used for large distances. For example, the best Titleist drivers will help you start out on those treacherous par fives. While drivers work for some people, you may want to keep a 2-iron in your bag as an alternative option.

How to Hit 2 Irons

7 Best 2 Irons to Gain More Distance
You need to aim for a straight shot with your 2 irons golf club

Hitting a 2-iron can be challenging at first because it generally has a low loft. This means the ball doesn’t angle very high, so you need to strike the ball in the right spot. As always, practice will help you out.

If you’re really struggling, stick with a 2-iron that has a higher loft, such as the Ping G410, which features a loft of 23 degrees, and the WILSON Staff Model Utility, which comes in at 24 degrees.

How to Pick the Best 2 Irons

Those that have played golf before will realize that a golf club is a very personal matter. As such, you want to be aware of the style you play as well as any shortfalls you want to improve on. Then, you can look at these specific features to find one that will fit perfectly in your grip.

Shaft length

On average, the shaft length of a 2-iron will be between 39 and 40 inches. Usually, a graphite shaft, of which all of our irons have, is at the higher end of this spectrum. Because of the long length, it can be a bit hard at first to wield a 2-iron, so you will want to practice before heading onto the course.

Shaft material

Golf clubs have steadily improved over the years and graphite is the leading material when it comes to shaft material. All of the selected 2-irons on our list use graphite. The reason for this construction is evident when you hold a club.

Not only is graphite incredibly durable but it is very lightweight. You can swing with a lot of power, which is essential when you use a 2-iron as you are normally hitting it from either the tee box or the fairway.

Loft

Loft in a 2-iron refers to the angle the head of the golf club is set at. There is actually quite a large range of options and you may need some experience before deciding which loft works for you.

At the lower end of the spectrum, we have the TaylorMade Golf SIM UDI and the Srixon Golf- ZX Utility which have 18-degree lofts. Lower still is the Cobra Golf King Utility at 17.5 degrees and the TaylorMade P790 at 17.5 degrees.

As for the higher end, you can choose from the Ping G410 at 23 degrees and the WILSON Staff Model Utility at 24 degrees. While generally the lower-end clubs especially those best sets of golf clubs under $500 have a lower loft, you can certainly look around to find a golf club that has the right features at the right price range.

Hand orientation

7 Best 2 Irons to Gain More Distance
You should always choose proper equipment – including hand orientation that fits you

In the world of golf, manufacturers are aware that there are right and left-handed golf players. While the 2-irons on our list are made for right-handed players, if you are a lefty, there are plenty of options, and usually some that are the equivalent of what we have presented you with.

Weight

Thanks to materials such as steel, tungsten, and graphite, your 2-iron will be less than a pound in weight. While there are some very light clubs, such as the WILSON Staff Model Utility which only weighs 7 grams, none of the clubs on our list are considered heavy.

Prices

When you are into the sport of golf, there are two options for buying golf clubs. You can purchase a complete set or you can pick and choose each individual club. Beginners may want to start with a set as it is the easier option. If you aren’t sure about how much you will enjoy golf, you can always try these options as they are the best golf sets under $300.

The other option is to choose your own clubs, which is why we put together this list of the best men’s 2-iron golf clubs. While they can be expensive, there are still some budget options, such as the Srixon Golf- ZX Utility.

FAQ

How far can you shoot 2 irons?

Usually, you can expect your ball to travel a distance of between 200 and 250 yards when you shoot a 2-iron, making this a very powerful golf club. However, your golf shot is only as good as your strength.

Which pro-golfers prefer 2 irons?

A 2-iron may be a necessity for the average hobbyist golfer, but it isn’t actually that common with pro golfers. Some athletes, such as Aaron Wise, Matt Jones, and Lanto Griffin, do carry this club in their gear. For elite athletes, they have enough experience and body strength to wield more powerful drivers.

Our verdict

Picking the right golf club to start off your game is essential which is why so many golfers make sure they have a 2-iron in their golf bag. Our Editor’s Choice is the Callaway 2020 X-Forged Utility Iron as it has bold construction and a remarkable 18-degree loft. If you have an average handicap but want to improve your game a bit more, you can try the Cobra Golf King Utility. Its graphite shaft is well-balanced and with at 17.5-degree loft, it will definitely drive the ball far and clear. Finally, if you want a decent 2-iron but don’t want to break the bank, you can try the Srixon Golf- ZX Utility. Its hollowed construction and excellent grip are clear reasons why it should be considered one of the best 2 irons you can find.

References

1.
11 municipal courses that are getting the love they deserve | Courses | Golf Digest
Cities and towns across the country are reconnecting with their municipal courses—and each story is fascinating.
2.
Improving performance in golf: current research and implications from aclinical perspective
Golf, a global sport enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities, involves relatively long periods of low intensity exercise interspersed with short bursts of high intensity activity.
3.
Aaron Wise PGA TOUR Profile - News, Stats, and Videos
The official PGA TOUR profile of Aaron Wise. PGA TOUR stats, video, photos, results, and career highlights.
9,8
Total Score
Callaway 2020 X-Forged Utility Iron - Editor’s Choice
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