Callaway Hawkeye Irons Review

Callaway Hawkeye Irons Review

The Callaway Hawkeye Irons were released around 2000, but over two decades later people still talk about them.

They have some unique features and perhaps you’re not sure if using something ‘different’ will help your game?

Also, is it worth investing in older gear that some players view as outdated. After all, technology has advanced, so surely modern sets are automatically better?

Not necessarily! I had a look at the details of the Hawkeyes and my feedback will help you make the best decision for your handicap.

Callaway Hawkeye Irons Overview

Note that two variations of the Hawkeye Irons were released onto the market.

First there were the Hawkeye Ti (Tungsten Injected) irons in 2000 and then in 2002 the brand also created the Hawkeye VFT Titanium range.

The latter set was created using advanced technology for that time, including Variable Face Thickness technology. The goal was to offer players forgiveness but also make the set relevant for a wide range of players.

This innovative approach to manufacturing irons is why I would suggest any player try them if you can. You may just find you like them, no matter your current skill level or handicap.

In terms of the original Hawkeye Ti irons, you can easily identify them thanks to the inlay on the bottom of each iron. The oval inlay looks like an eye itself, and it also depicts a hawk’s head and eye.

They have titanium heads and the market offers steel and graphite shafts. So, you can buy according to your preference. Thanks to the use of Tungsten steel the manufacturers could manipulate the weight distribution and center of gravity of the irons, making them very forgiving.

One thing you’ll notice when comparing these to some sets you’ve played with is that they’re a bit longer. Also, if you’re used to modern sets, these may look a bit more like ‘shovels’ than stylish irons. But what matters is their efficiency, not just the look, right?

Are the Callaway Hawkeye Irons Forgiving?

The use of Tungsten steel is one of the reasons that these irons can be forgiving.

With a high mass to volume ratio, tungsten enables designers to easily manipulate the design of irons and make them more forgiving.

In terms of distance, these irons are very forgiving. Many players have managed to improve their stats in terms of distancing, simply by using a set like these.

Another reason you’ll find them forgiving is the offset. You’ll notice it simply by looking at the irons, so it’s clear these were designed to help less experienced players.

Are the Callaway Hawkeye Irons Good for Beginners & High Handicappers?

The ideal target audience for Hawkeyes is probably intermediate golfers.

You’ll find the irons forgiving enough to help improve your game, so high handicappers can definitely put them on their shortlist.

They even carry value for newbies. Simply note some of the unique features mentioned here, so you don’t expect all irons to perform and feel the same as these.

Should You Buy the Callaway Hawkeye Irons or Callaway Big Bertha Irons?

Other irons from Callaway that are often under discussion is the Big Bertha range.

This is another product that Callaway uses Tungsten steel for. It’s placed in just the right spots to help players improve aspects like launch and spin.

The first ones came out in the 1990s and in 2016 the Big Bertha OS Iron set saw the light. Players love them for their stylish design and how extremely forgiving they are. They make it easy to hit the ball just right and usually they’re the go-to for players who simply want to enjoy the game, rather than focus on advancing their skills.

If you do want to improve, know that the Big Berthas are much more appropriate for less experienced golfers and high handicappers. Slower players get more enjoyment out of them than fast players and the set can help you improve your consistency.

More skilled players would find more enjoyment in the Callaway Hawkeye irons. They’re also forgiving, but they cater for a wider user audience than the Big Berthas.