Are the TaylorMade M3 Irons Still Good – Forgiving for High Handicappers?

Sometimes brands release exceptional gear that stands the test of time and is definitely worth buying even a few years after the model’s launch.

Plus, you get the clubs that were in the shop window a few short years ago, at a nice discount. That said, is it worth buying the TaylorMade M3 Irons if you come across them secondhand?

We investigated.

Are the TaylorMade M3 Irons Still Good?

There’s no doubt that a set of M3 irons is still a wise investment for golfers, even though they were released quite a few years ago.

In this set you’ll find some of the most impressive technology integrated into irons. These irons are not too many iterations back so we can see a lot of the technology in the M3’s that still power the Taylormade irons of today.

The irons address common challenges many players face, such as consistency, distance and forgiveness. Get them fitted with the right shafts and they are an ultimate set for High-Mid Handicappers to this day.

Are TaylorMade M3 Irons Forgiving for High Handicappers?

Yes, there’s some forgiveness when you play with the M3 irons but do note that forgiveness was not the focus of the design.

Also, the brand has not marketed them as being particularly forgiving.

This, along with some other features, means that our expert advice is that this set of irons is more appropriate for low and mid-handicap players. Despite the many features that can help improve play, it’s not the most relevant for beginners and high handicappers.

TaylorMade M3 vs M1 Irons (and M4 Irons)

The M3 Irons have a thinner top line and more player friendly profile.

The M3’s will suit a Mid Handicap player who is looking for distance, workability and consistency, while thew M1’s may suit higher handicappers.

A common question is whether you need to upgrade to the latest model if you already own a great set from a leading brand. In terms of TaylorMade, many M1 users wonder whether it’s to their benefit if they upgrade to M3. After all, although an impressive set like the P790s is even more expensive, you’ll still spend a considerable amount to own M3s.

What is the wise choice here?

The M3s feel quite different from the M1 range, with excellent feedback and many players like the sound on impact much more. It’s more muted and feels good whether you hit the sweet spot or miss it slightly.

Important note: you may also wonder if it’s worth investing in the M4 range that was released at the same time as the M3s. The sets are similar but the M4 irons showcase larger face designs, and the lofts are stronger, helping you increase ball speed and distance. They are slightly more forgiving than the M3 irons, so higher handicappers and beginners may enjoy them more.

TaylorMade M3 First Impressions

Let’s start with how these feel.

As mentioned, many like the muted tones when an M3 makes contact with the ball. More of your shots will feel good when you play them, so you’ll have a better overall experience. However, you can still gauge when it’s a mishit and what exactly went wrong. This helps a lot when you’re trying to improve your play.

If aesthetics matter to you, know that the brand chose a classic design that will look good in your golf bag for years to come. A blend of white, gray and black is always stylish.

TaylorMade M3 Selling Points

  • Almost as impressive as the more expensive TaylorMade P790
  • Features that can improve distance
  • Balance between workability and forgiveness
  • Excellent feel and feedback
  • Incorporation of multiple technologies into one set of irons

TaylorMade Key Technology

TaylorMade shows off some of its market leading technologies in this set:

RibCOR technology

By concentrating face flexibility into a very limited space, you’ll see your ball speed increase and better stats in terms of distance and trajectories. It’s made possible by incorporating two bars that keep the head’s outside area stiff and then more energy is transferred to the ball upon impact.

Weight

TaylorMade uses Tungsten steel—a 15-gram weight to be precise—to move the center of gravity. This helps players with MOI and launching the ball and you’ll enjoy more stability. Note that in the M3 this is only in the 3 – 7 irons.

Face slots

TaylorMade has used these slots in other products too. Grooves on the face result in boosting flexibility and the speed of the ball, even if you didn’t hit the sweet spot.

Speed Pocket

On the bottom of the sole, you’ll find a slot and this design has multiple benefits, including more forgiveness and flexibility, even when you connect low on the clubface.

TaylorMade Loft & Lie

Loft Lie
3 18.0° 60.5°
4 20.5° 61°
5 23° 61.5°
6 26.5° 62°
7 30.5° 62.5°
8 35° 63°
9 40° 63.5°
PW 45° 64°
AW 50° 64°
SW 55° 64.5°

Who Should Buy the TaylorMade M3?

Despite the many features that can help improve play, it’s not the most relevant for beginners and high handicappers.

Our expert advice is that this set of irons is more appropriate for low and mid handicap players.

Furthermore, the brand has said it was created to help players who want more distance in their shots.

The features mentioned above mean you can try this set out if you’re looking for a player’s iron. After all, they’re not the most forgiving irons on today’s market. Also, many advanced players find the thin top line and sole very attractive. The minimal offset is another feature that confirms that it was designed with better players in mind.

However, some of the characteristics, such as the Speed Pocket, can make it a game improvement set of irons for certain players. If you have improved your game and want to set yourself a new goal in terms of skill, perhaps these irons can help you achieve the next milestone.

Scoring

  • Distance: 96/100

  • Forgiveness: 91/100

  • Workability: 94/100

  • Overall Performance: 94/100

  • Value: 93/100

Overall Score: 94/100

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