When the MP-52 debuted this fall with its sibling the MP-62, there were two surprises. First, the company’s “Cut Muscle” design of the last several years is missing, replaced with a very different “Dual Muscle” technology. Second, with the MP-52, Mizuno set out to make a more forgiving MP iron. The MP line has always been the domain of low and lower-mid handicappers. They have a reputation as being workable while providing a lot of feedback. Keeping up to those standards with a forgiving club is a bit of a tall order.
Consider that mid- and low-handicappers can be pretty finicky about their clubs. Many won’t play muscle backs because they think (probably accurately) that they need more forgiveness. Others won’t consider anything that isn’t basically blade-like, because they refuse to sacrifice feel and workability (nothing wrong with that stance either). Forgiveness and workability are to a large extent at opposite ends of the same spectrum. Creating playable irons that meet the needs and preferences of better golfers is a gutsy undertaking for a company with a solid reputation among lower handicappers.
But the MP-52s are not intended for the blade set, they are intended to attract those mid handicappers who have always felt that previous MP models were not forgiving enough for them. They are aimed at those who have played player’s clubs in the past, but now want a little more forgiveness.
Will Mizuno’s gamble pay off? Let’s take a look at its new easer to hit MP iron and find out.
Design and Technology
The MP-52, like its big brother MP-62, is a sharp departure from the “Cut Muscle” MPs (32, 57, 60, and 67). Though it sports a similar name in “Dual Muscle,” it’s really a different animal. The Dual Muscle technology gets its name from (appropriately enough) two new design features: an outer “muscle pad” that, according to Mizuno, moves the center of gravity lower and deeper to enhance playability and launch angle; and an inner “muscle pad” that is intended to provide the feel and the feedback that better players tend to seek.
The MP-52s feature dual CNC-milled pocket cavities behind the face in the 3- through 7-irons. These two deep crescents allowed the designers to move 14 grams of mass to lower and deepen the COG further. These cavities look like they would hold two quarters each. Mizuno has opted for this dual crescent approach in an effort to maintain a solid feeling impact zone while bringing more forgiveness to its MP line.
Mizuno is known for its forged irons, and the MP-52s are intended to continue in that tradition. The clubs are “Grain Flow Forged” (Mizuno’s term) from 1025E mild carbon steel, which is then finished with double nickel chrome plating for looks and durability. Mizuno has given the MP-52s modified U-grooves. The rolled leading edge, cambered mid-sole, and agressively beveled trailing edge are designed to give the irons more playability from all types of lies while remaining true to their MP lineage.
Esthetics
Like all of Mizuno MP models, the 52s are clearly well made golf clubs. The chrome-plated heads are left relatively unadorned, a nice departure from the badges and other design flourishes that some manufacturers feel compelled to slap all over their clubheads. Aside from the Mizuno stamp on the back of the clubhead, there are also small “MP-52” and “Dual Muscle” stamps, but the majority of the space is chromed or satin metal. The Mizuno “Grain Flow Forged” stamp is located on the back of the hosel, as usual on clubs in the MP line, and the sole is stamped with the Mizuno roadrunner symbol and the club designation. All stamps feature black paintfill.
In appearance, the MP-52s resemble the hypothetical offspring of Mizuno’s MP-30s and MX-23s (older models that have both been discontinued for several years). A casual observer may believe these clubs are in the same “muscle cavity” family as the MP-62s, but a closer look at the 3-7 irons will reveal the more playable features of the clubs.
The playability features are noticeable, but just barely. The soles are a tad wider than on the MP-60s, though the beveled trailing edge helps reduce the perceived width. The topline is slightly thicker as well. The cavity pocket is less pronounced at address than those found on the older MX-23 and 25 models. At address, only a sliver of the milled pocket is visible behind the clubface with the 3-iron (although a forward press will bring the dual pocket cavities into plain view).
While I have to admit a preference for the Mizuno Cut Muscle iron appearance (as in the MP-57 and 60), the Dual Muscle models are good looking, nonetheless. The company has done a good job of including game improvement features in a club that still retains aspects of a player’s club.
Performance
Mizuno’s goal with the MP-52 was to create a more playable player’s club, and they were successful. The MP-52s are indeed the easiest clubs to play in the MP line.
Ball flight is higher than my MP-60s (which could in part be due to the differences between the MP-52’s Project X shafts and the MP-60’s Dynamic Golds). I could tell no real difference in lateral accuracy between the two MP irons, though the 52s did not punish mis-hits as much in terms of distance loss. Marginal shots still get the job done with the 52s, though you can tell when you haven’t caught it flush.
I found the MP-52 long irons to be very easy to hit, even easier than some game improvement irons I’ve played. The sole design worked well from all of the lies I found myself in. Shots landed with enough spin and angle to hold even the firm fast greens I was playing this fall. Even if I don’t end up playing an entire set of MP-52s, I’ll be seriously considering adding the 3, 4, and 5 irons to my bag simply because they make it those long iron shots so much easier to pull off than my MP-60s.
The shorter irons in the set are equally well performing, they just do not distinguish themselves from other clubs in the class the way the long irons do. The 6 and 7 irons feature the same dual cavity pockets that the longer irons do for added forgiveness. The 8-PW have the solid muscle pad to enhance workability in the short irons. The integration of these two club designs, though abrupt, is hardly noticeable in play. The clubs feel and perform very similarly, which is what you want in a set.
While forgiving, the MP-52s still provide clear feedback as to where contact occurred on the clubface. Shots in the center of the clubface are rewarded with the sweet feel of solid contact. It seemed to me that the very soft “buttery” feeling that Mizuno forgings are known for was harder to come by than with the MP-60s. In general, the MP-52s felt less harsh on near misses than the MP-60s, but the perfect feel seems harder to achieve. It seems that, perhaps, there is a trade-off for that forgiveness… not a severe one, but a tradeoff nonetheless.
For a forgiving iron, the MP-52’s are still reasonably easy to shape shots with. I experienced few problems moving the ball left or right with these irons, though if left to their own devices they seem to prefer a straighter shot. I found that to work the ball I only had to exagerate my setup slightly more than I would with the MP-60s. That’s to be expected from a more forgiving club.
Distance with the MP-52’s was the same with the short irons as with my regular set. With the long irons, however, I found that I could count on a few extra yards from about the 6-iron on.
Specifications
While the set I tested were fit with the Project X 6.0 shafts, the standard shaft options are the Rifle Project X 5.5 or the Dynamic Gold R300 or S300. The irons come with Mizuno/Golf Pride M-21 Round grips. A wide variety of shaft and grip options are available as custom orders.
One of the best things about using the custom option with Mizuno is the company’s readiness to allow the mixing and matching of clubs from various lines. You can easily create your own mixed set to fit your exact needs.
The MP-52s carry a suggested retail price of $1,100 (about $900 street) with Dynamic Golds or $1,200 (about $1,000 street)with Project X 5.5 shafts.
Club Loft Lie Offset Length Bounce ---- ---- --- ------ ------ ------ 3 21 59.5 0.142 38.75" 1 4 24 60.0 0.134 38.25" 1 5 27 60.5 0.134 37.75" 2 6 31 61.0 0.130 37.25" 2 7 35 61.5 0.126 36.75" 3 8 39 62.0 0.126 36.25" 3 9 43 62.5 0.114 35.75" 4 PW 47 63.0 0.114 35.50" 5
Both righties and lefties can enjoy the MP-52s equally.
Conclusion
Mizuno bills its new MP-52 irons as the most playable MP irons ever, and that seems to be an accurate assessment. One would have to look to the MX line to find more forgiveness, but would sacrifice workability in the process.
The MP-52s bridge the gap between the MX and MP lines. There’s an awful lot to like in these irons. The 52s give the MP line a new usability entry point that should appeal to a wider range of golfers than other models in the MP line. The irons should be forgiving enough to be played successfully by 20-handicappers, yet workable enough to be played by a 5-10 handicapper as well.
Golfers looking for a good compromise of workability, feel, and forgiveness will find a good candidate in the MP-52s.
Great review. I just bought a set and have really enjoyed them. I tried some other clubs but the look and feel just work for me. I’m a mid hdcper and really like the feedback.
Also I really like your site. Thanks for the great content.
RT
I slightly disagree in the since that I found the MP-57s much easier to hit in the long irons than the MP-52s.
Mainly because of the increase offset in the 57s versus the 52s.
IMHO..
J
Best investment I ever made. MP 52 awesome, is the most forgiving club I ever palyed. Try it you will see.
Likewise, keep up to good work.
Any insight on how the MP52s compare to the MP62s or even the recently reviewed MP57s?
Thanks!
I have hit Demo’s of the MP52’s and find then easier to hit than my old Comp EZ’s. Can’t wait until UPS gets here this afternoon with my new MP52’s
I just bought the mp-52 irons after a three hours trial of every blade and forged cavity back in stock at edwin watts in Miami. After viewing the results on the launch monitor the 52’s for my swing yeilded incredibly consistent carry, trajectory and feel. I tried the Nike vr blades, the forged Adams irons, titleist zb,and none of them performed nearly as well as the 52’s. The feel when struck correctly was smooth and impressive when comparded to my old tm game improvement irons. For a single digit handicapp (8) my old irons just weren’t cutting it anymore and I needed a somewhat forgiving club but with a smaller face, look, and feel and mizuno hit it out of the park with this one. After hitting these I will never go back to a cast iron ever again.
Great site. Great review.
I’ve been playing with the MP-52 for 2 months now and I’m very happy with it. I held off buying the MP-60 and MP-57 as well as Ping S57. It’s well worth the wait after using TM LT for 5 years. My ball flights are nice and high, great soft feel and I just love the looks. Mine is fitted with NS Pro950 regular shafts and it’s perfect for me. My iron shots are very consistent now and my confidence is high with these clubs. Anyone in doubt should give it a try… I love it…
Faiz Hcp 13
I play mp32s and am thinking about swapping the 3-4 irons out for 52s. Anyone tried this? Feel and workability will be sacrafices but should I expect significant changes in ball flight, distance, etc?
thanks in advance.
I bought the MP52’s as soon as they were available. Earlier in the year I had purchased Ping i-10’s and hated them. These Mizunos are great! I don’t know what Ping is doing but after the i-10 debacle I will never even think of buying Ping again.
I just tried out 6 different sets after playing my Ping ISI’s for 11 years. I am a 10 handicaper, and the feel when hitting the 52’s was unreal. So flush and smooth when you strike the ball well. I tried the Ping I-10, Titliest AP-2, Callaway X22, and other Mizuno options. The MP52 is so great because I am very good at working the ball, but I just need more forgiveness in my game. This is the club that allows me to do both. I am 6’6″ so I got +1inch and 2 degrees upright. I also just went with the S300 Gold shafts. I tried the project X, but I feel unless you are someone who likes to keep teh ball low and really hits down on the ball, the shaft is not for you.
Mizuno is undoubtedly the top company in irons right now and I’d put Titliest 2nd
I recently switched from Mizuno Comp EZ’s to MP 52’s. The Comp EZ’s were the best irons I have ever owned. I seroiusly considered the MP 57’s but held off and am glad I did although I like the look of the MP 57’s better. The MP 52’s are great for me. I like Sean am tall and can work the ball well but still need the forgiveness (am 61 y/o & don’t play too often) the 52’s provide. Mine have the Dynamic Gold S300 shafts, are 1″ upright and have Winn Excel mid sized grips. Mizuno is tops for beauty, quality and playability for every level of golfer.
Thanks to George for his great reviews.
I currently play the MP-60’s and are by far my best scoring irons I have ever owned…..anyone have any comparisons to share with MP-60’s and the MP-52’s?
Really good review! I started playing golf 2 years ago and am now down to an 11 handicap. I’ve been using 2004 Big Bertha’s that I am growing to hate. My MP-52’s will arrive next week, from this review and some of the other comments, it seems I made a good choice.
George – NIce review. Thanks.
John – I currently play the MP60’s and used a demo set of MP52’s for 2 rounds this weekend. Both have DG S300. The 52’s did appear to be a bit easier to hit in the 4 and 5 irons. I really couldn’t tell any difference in the mid and shorter irons. Maybe a touch more feedback on the 60’s. The biggest difference that I DID feel however was the way the sole of the club came off the turf with the 52’s feeling decidely better. So it was interesting to read the George’s review and finding out that the sole’s are indeed different. To me, the sole is a critical component in the head and the sole’s design should match the type of turf and conditions. I could on and on about this (some of my golf buddies think i’m crazy on this “sole” thing).
If you can get your hands on a set to try on your home course, you’d get a better sense of what I’m trying to describe. Hope this helps.
😆 I live in the UK and took the opportunity to go to the National Fitting Centre @ New Maldon, Surrey (inside M25) in Nov 08. Having had Mizuno TPZ for 6 years and then the MP30’s for the next 6 years, I was looking forward to trying MP62 & MP52 clubs. Playing off 12 I was unable to gain the consistency with the 62’s (my fault not the club’s!) but with the MP52’s – brilliant!I enjoyed the traditional feedback which was there, and that is what you come to expect from Mizuno. 10 days later my new clubs arrived (fitted with DGR300 SL Std Shafts) but only played 2 rounds at my home course before I was in Florida over Xmas @ PGA National and shot 75 net on the Champions Course (Honda Classic Course). Lovely clubs and also got MPT Wedges with same shaft. Can’t recommend highly enough the club or Mark Yonwin @ Mizuno NFC. Also tried & purchased the Bettinardi BC5 putter (fantastic bit of kit) which all helped towards that round @ PGA National. The ‘Bear Trap’ ? No problem, 15″ short of a hole in one on 15 (2), par on 16 (4) & only 3 putt of the day on 17 (4) – result – in Par. Don’t hesitate in buying MP52’s – they do exactly what they say on the tin! 😆
I’m a 9 handicapper and currently play the Ping I3+ blade (it’s not a true blade, they have 2 models “O-size” and “Blade”). Should I even be looking at a “Players” Iron like the MP-52, or should I strictly look at the “Game Improvement” irons? I am really working on my game and my handicap has been dropping every year.
There is no reason a 9 can’t play the MP 52. I switched from MIzuno Comp EZ’s that I had played for years. My handicap had gone from a 12 to a 7 prior to the switch and after a reasonable adjustment period it’s on the way down again. I find the 52’s easier to play and very easy on the eyes at address.
Thanks Basil, I just don’t want to get into something that’s dramatically more difficult to hit…but it sounds like these MP 52s may be just as easy to hit as my I3+?
What’s everyone’s recommendation on fitting for Mizunos? The thing I really liked about my PINGs was that I could get fitted and have the clubs made to my specifications.
My recommendation would be to get fit for any clubs you are going to buy. Find someone that has the knowledge and that you have condidence in. Check everything, loft, lie angle,shaft type and flex. You will go through an adjustment period when you make a change and you don’t want doubt about the fit to creep in to your mind. As I’m sure you know doubt will kill your golf game.
Cool Site – Too bad Kenny Perry use a Taylor R7 TP iron to chip with late is his round. I tried those clubs and chipping with them is like using a hammer! Really hard and inconsistent distance for chipping. I think it cost him the Masters.
Mizuno makes the best feeling clubs period. I also like the Adam A4’s too, but it’s too much off-site for me. My irons are the MP 52’s as it’s really the best of both worlds. I don’t think mid high HCP should use them, but if your a 15 or better you should give them a shot.
I know the MP52 long irons have the deeper cavity back .. but is there any difference between the mp 52 and 62 in the 8-PW?
While the short irons in the MP 52s are more 62-like, there are some differences such as more offset in the 52s. Check out the specs on the Mizuno Golf website. I think the 62s have a slightly smaller profile, but that could be in my head. Overall, the 52s are going to be more forgiving all the way through the set.
good review, I demoed mp52, before I bought. Hit them better than the MX. These are not only for low HCs, I’m a 11 handicap. The trajectory. is high and distance not as far as some cavity backs, but the lofts are old school (higher) compared to TM burner type lofts. Easy to hit and more workable than my old cavities and love the feel and looks.
Recommend Mid hc”s try these. They sell themselves.
Does anyone have experience with the True Temper Dynalite Gold SL in the MP 52’s vs. the Nippon 950 Pro GH shafts? I have ordered a set of MP 52’s with the True Temper Dynalite Gold SL shaft and they should arrive this week.
i am a high handicapper (22) and are looking at getting either the MP 52 or MP 57. stoll couldn’t decide. any suggestions?
I currently play the MX-25 rifle 6.0 shafts. I purchased the MP-52 with the project x 6.0 shafts. I am a 12 handicap, will this help me improve my.
Generally when people see my handicap (16) they automatically assume that the MP 52’s are not for me. I went ahead and ordered a set that arrives a week from now. Hitting them was amazing! I am inconsistant with my current irons, which are 1/2″ shorter and 2* flat (standard lie) than I need.
I already have a MP Fli Hi 2, MP-T 47.06 and 51.08(I think the bounce is 8). With these 3 clubs alone I have been able to keep my game in check while getting a slightly lower score (2-4 strokes).
I am currently able to work the ball on my pitches, which is new to me. I am now learning more with each swing I take with these clubs. I know if I miss hit, heel or toe.
I honestly believe that my handicap has been limited by my previous irons. Over this next year I will learn more about my game than I ever have. I am excited and encourage EVERYONE who wants to improve, even mid to high handicappers, to look at these irons!
I currently play the MP 52s and previously owed the MP 60s. The MP 52s are MUCH more forgiving. I loved the MP 60s when I hit them right, but I just didn’t have the game for them. You’ll lose much less distance with a slight miss hit with the 52s. I would highly recommend the MP 52’s they provide a great look, feedback and feel while also giving that extra bit of forgiveness that a mid handicapper like me needs. The 52s are definitely one one the best sets of irons out there.
Try them out with a skilled fitting centre…. If they are your new irons, you’ll know. Buy them and practice yourself into the full capacity of them – Can’t wait to play my new custom “B 52’s” – in a week or so!
Hi John,
Thanks for the advice… will be trying the set next week.
MC! 🙂
Your particular setup is all dependant on the characteristics of your swing, physics and “feel” – try out, think, feel and analyze how different set ups work for you.
I tried out three sticks both at the store and then borrowed them for a try out at the driving range: 1 stick with std lie/length with both a S300 (Stiff) shaft and one std with Projetct X 5.5 flex, and the third one with S300 (stiff), 2 degrees upright lie at +½”
Then mix your impressions with the test results of your swing and your physical characteristics (Heigth, hands, arms, swing speed and so forth) during the dialogue with the fitting guy ….. and get the perfect set of sticks for you!
Great set!
Shaft! Length! Grip! Lie…. has to fit you – and your characteristics…. 🙂
The mp57s have more forgiveness on the lower irons which i find surprising considering they 52s are meant to be the most playable mp irons. But the 52s have a cavity and 57 is cut muscle – so depends what you prefer – bigger cavity vs more offset
Just purchased a mp52 lh 7 iron with graphite exsar is2 and a 8 iron with Nippon pro 950 h. Coudn’t really decide which way to go without playing each shaft so I’ll let you know in a couple of weeks my decision as to the better (for me ) shaft. I have been playing with the 6 iron demo with dg s300 and love the mp 52 head, just a question on the shaft. I have little elbow tendinitis and need some help.
Being left handed, it’s hard to find demos in different set ups. Anyone out there playing with the exsar IS2 shaft?
Any feedback on the MP 52/Dynalite Gold SL combo? i’m interested in this combo as well. Thanks.
I played MX23’s with Project X 6.0 Flighted and made the switch to the Titleist AP1 to get a more forgiving club, BIG mistake. I miss the feel of the Mizuno but I am looking at either the MX 200 or the MP 52 or even combining a set of MX200 (4-7) and the MP52 (8-PW). How easy are the longer irons to hit? I play a lot of courses as I travel with my job so my index is a 8.5 (Handicap 5-15 depending on the course i play). Any suggestions?
Thanks
I have set of TM R7 XD’s with graphite shafts. Looking at getting a set of MP52’s. Hit in the high 90’s. Any recommedations on shafts etc.
I would suggest the MX-200’s. I was a 15+ playing MX23’s now i’m looking to the MP52 around a 8-10 HDCP.
Follow up to my 6/10/09 post
After playing with both and deciding to go with the Nippon pro 950 s shaft vs the exsar graphite, I can report with very favorable results. Went to 3 fitters for lie angle opinion, 2 agreed, so be careful out there. The Nippon shaft is actually lighter than the graphite and the vibrant sweet feel of a well struck shot is apparent immediately with the Nippon pro 950. Ball flight is significantly higher than my old low trajectory with my previous irons which had DG steel with sensicore. Vibration is much reduced with combination of beveled sole of MP52 which glides thru rather than digging into turf and this new wonderful shaft from Nippon. Exsar was OK and I could have lived with it, but (for me) steel was more responsive and vibrant ( by a lot). Winn grips X17 completes the package very nicely. Elegant looking and wonderful performers, so far . Great sticks!!
Erik, why not review the MP-62’s?!? a better club then MP-52 and a more fair compare against old MP-60 and the AP2!
I am a high handicapper playing with Mx-950s. I want to switch to MP range.. Would it make sense to get the Mp-52 with project x high flight shafts?
I have spent a couple of days hitting the MP 52 demo, these are my new clubs I will be ordering them today. In regards to the shafts, i had the MX23’s with PX 6.0 Flighted, loved the trajectory but a little stiff. Went to the AP1 with PX standard 5.5, hated everything about those clubs. I have done a lot of research on the KBS shaft and I am ordering those today as well. I would take a look at these shafts as the inventor of the PX has left and is producing these new shafts. Several of the pro’s are using them now. they are smoother and they load very well. Take a look.
Check out the Nippon pro 950 shaft, available from Mizuno, I have it in my mp52’s and am more than happy.
sweet, vibrant , mid to high launch.
I heard they were good but very light so it depends on what you are looking for. For me I live on the Fl Panhandle coast and I need something that cuts through the air and doesn’t ballon. The PX worked great for me but heard these are even better, we will see.
I’ve had these irons since they came out. actually the mizuno rep told me i had one of the first sets in michigan. i got mine fitted and have really enjoyed these clubs. they are forgiving, yet easily workable. I am hitting more GIR and i have really turn up my accuracy, especially 8-pw.. I’d recommend these to anyone looking for a iron that has a clean classic look, is forgiving on miss hits, but has the solid feel and feedback to be very accurate with these irons.
Awesome Clubs. I agree with Nate very forgiving and playable. I have had them for two rounds and noticed a huge difference in feel vs. my old AP1’s. I got them built from a guy that used to work with Mizuno and had him put in the new KBS shafts. This is an awesome combination and the KBS shafts are very smooth. Highly recommend these clubs.
I went to the Mizuno fitting centre in Surrey last weekend and got fitted with the MP-52s with Nippon NS950 regular steel shafts which are amazingly light and launch the ball high. On the radar the gains were about 10 yards over my current MX950 irons with standard steel shafts. I will receive the clubs next week and am looking to try them on the course.
I want to order new wedges as well but told that new MP line wedges are on the way and I am now waiting for them.
I was all set to buy the MX25’s at the end of last summer until the new clubs came out. I went to the Mizuno fitting centre in scotland (free of charge & highly recommended) with an open mind and tried all the clubs available. The clubs that came out on top were the MP52’s, they were a lot more accurate & consistent than the MX200’s and felt better. The MX200’s did not have the same feel as the MX23/MX25’s in my opinion. Because I am short I got 2Deg flat DG R300 shafts with blue compound grips (better than the standard grips IMO)
I play off 16 but this was when I was using 15 year old clubs (too ashamed to mention the model). The difference was black & white. I am now hitting just about every green, I can now hit the longer irons and if I do hit a bad shot then you can feel what went wrong. I haven’t played in many Medals this year (due to work!) but when I have I have been getting cut, even when not playing to my best!
I also bought two MP-R wedges in the same spec and these are amazing too….then they offered me a Black carbon putter for £50! Got the BC4…and haven’t looked back since…these are the best manufactured putters money can buy (being an Engineer it’s what I look for in a club).
If your looking for new Irons then these are the first ones you should try. (Although if you have not been playing golf for long then I would recommend the MX range. You still have to be a good striker of the ball to play these clubs.)
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Been gaming callaway tour authentic for the last 3 years and decided to get a back up set. Got fitted for mizuno MP 52 even though the sales person thought that was too much club for me. I have a low swing speed ( 80-90) mph so the standard DGS300 shaft was way too heavy for me. My fitter ( Frank Viola, Boston Ma) recommended KBS Tour 90 shaft for my mizzy’s which he gladly re-shafted for a very reasonable price. 😆 My handicap have dropped from 19 to 10.4 within 3 months!! with a 10 yds gain on my clubs . Am rejuvenated and enjoying the game more than ever.
Highly recommend these Butter Knives!
I’m an 18 trying to improve. I’m 65 but in good shape. I want irons I can grow with for the next 5 years. Are the 52’s over my head. I was even considering the 57’s but I’m sure that was my ego talking
Reply to Craig.
I am 64 and have brought my index down from an 18 to an 11, primarily by working hard and playing “player’s clubs.”
IMHO, your handicap is but one indicator of what kind of iron you should be playing. For example, you could be a great ball striker and a lousy short game guy. Or, as in my case, you could be a good ball striker with an inconsistent swing.
I game Titleist 735 CM irons, but also play Callaway X Forged 09 and Mizuno MP 32. Being left handed it is hard to demo irons, so I bought them!
If you have the attitude and the commitment, you most certainly can (should!) be playing these irons!!!
I switched from Ping I-5’s to the MP52’s in December, 2008. My index has gone from 10.5 to 7.0 since. Great clubs!
Have ordered mine this week. After MP52 being out close to a year, I decided to go with this set. Currently using Taylormade r7 TP, googd set, but don’t have that wonderful “soft” feel MP 52 has.
MP58’s coming out this fall, wonder how are those when compared to MP 52. Hope their will be a comparison between the two if a review is put up on MP 58.
I bougt the mp 52 300 stiff just yesterday (hcp14)and i had callaway x 18. my swing speed is round 80
not even tested on the golf course but after a swing analisys in a golf shop I got them . my fear is to have taken something alien that can make me crying to go back to the x 18
Well i hope i’m wrong and tomorrow i’ll see the first scorecard
everyone’s support will be wellcome
marco
Well, as much as I do not like the idea of playoing Mizuno ions, as I like TaylorMade, TaylorMade refuses to addres the players club in a forged head… Mizuno has always banked on the forging process, and they are one of the best, when struck well the feedback is amazing, that is any of the Grain Flow Forged irons, but I too am switching from the MX Series to the MP-52. They are the perfect club for the player can play, but still needs help on off center strikes, lets be honest, most of us are no where near scratch, so get the clubs that meet your needs… the Mizuno forgings are nice, great sound and feel when struck, you know when you hit them well. Like butter! Shaft is everything, and that perplexes me… I wam looking at either the DG, or the KBS, I understand that while Project X are great looking thay can be harsh, then the weet look will lead to non confidence… been playing stepped shafts my whole life, no need to switch for the look.
I have been playing the MP30’s in a DGS300 shaft for almost 7 years now. There are the best irons I’ve ever had, but they’re getting a bit worn. I’ve demoed the MP-52 and new MP-58 in DGS300 shafts, but was not as impressed as I thought I would be. The MP30 seems to outperform. I can’t find specs on the MP30’s anymore, but does anyone know how the they compare with the MP52/58 or the MP62/68. I’m particularly interested in the offsets, because I think that may be what is throwing me off. I guess I’m trying to determine which model is the true offspring of the 30.
Lee,
The specs for the MP 30’s can be found at:
http://www.thegolfshot.com/Mizuno%20MP-30.htm
Check out the nippon pro 950 shafts, light about 100g in stiff, sweet vibrant feel with mid to semi high launch if you need that . Also easy on the elbows and hands of those who have tendinitis type problems, which I do. I have them in my mp52s and am quite pleased. Hdcp dropped from 7 to 5 with this combo of club/shaft.
I am a 3 or 4 handicapper and I am playing the mizuno t-zoid pro and I am a bit worried about switching to the 52’s, but I really want to go to a little more forgiving club….Any ideas if these are a good choice for me?
hi I had read both the MP 58 review and the MP 52 review on the Sand Trap.
My understanding is that MP 58 is for the single handicapper looking to shape their shots more where the MP 52 is for the higher handicapper..
Can youcompare the two in terms of performance please.
TK
For ten years I played the Taylor Made Irons with the Bubble Graphite Shaft. Never thought about purchasing new irons will trying to raise kids and laying less than 15 times per year. I just gave myself a treat and purchased the MP 52’s. Totally shocked. I have always been a good golfer but very inconsistant. I could hit home a 77 and tomorrow hit a solid radio station like score or 89. I have always wanted to paly Mizuno’s. Well, my hunch was correct. I have played two rounds with the clubs and I am hitting the ball so solid. I just never realized how important the feedback was to help shape your game during your round. The feedback is incredible and let’s me tweak my game to mazimize my results. If you a 10+ and looking to shave strokes off your score, buy these. The look at address is incredible. Now I am losing about five yards per club but when I am 5 feet from pin and not chipping from of the green, who cares about those five yards. I have never spun the ball so well in my life. Feel so confident firing at the pins! Go buy these clubs and have your best summer of golf!. David
Excellent review of the MP-52’s.
Very clear and concise — this is a very good site !!
Thank you for providing it !!
Thanks for all the comments and the great review! I started looknig at the 52’s three months ago. However, I went through all the buyer emotions and Demo’d every other comparible club out there;Titlest, Calloway, TM, etc. Well because of this review and the follow up comments I went with my first instinct. Just like when you think you should hit a nine iron first, but go with the 8 and realize your first choice was your best.
Get them next week.
Thanks all.
Has anyone played the MP 52’s with the Brand:N.S.PRO 950GH Steel Shafts?
Thanks
Just got back from the range for my first shot’s with the MP 52’s/ They have the GS 95 S300 Shafts. A few miss hits, my fault as usual!! Overall long straight shots and very smooth on good to average contact. first round tomorrow!! Love them so far.
Yes, I have this shaft in my mp52’s, see previous posts. I like the shaft very much. LIght , vibrant, mid to high ball flight, reduced vibration, and super sweet feel on well struck shots. I had one demo club made with this shaft to try out before purchasing, you might want to try that before getting a complete set . And Get fitted for flex and lie angle etc.
I just started gaming MP-52s this season (5 rounds). With the exception of the 1st round, the subsequent rounds dropped my hcp by 2.5! These are forgiving enough for me and I like that a true mishit has consequences so that I have to take notice and concentrate on the next shot.
My only issue has been ballflight. I have these in the Mizuno-specific DG XP S300 shafts (my 6i ss ranges 80-85) and the shaft and weight at the bottom of these irons, coupled with my swing produces very high trajectories.
The trajectory isn’t too high to be playable (outside of a windy day) but I really enjoy hitting knockdown shots and I’m finding this hard to do. I like a slightly lighter shaft so I was considering reshafting with graphite (aftermarket not Exsar) but I want a higher kickpoint with reasonable control. Any suggestions? I was thinking about Steelfiber I95 or Aldila NV Comp 85 or 105.
Does anyone know if a set of MP 52’S with 1* flat lie will hurt a players game. Based on the range on the chart, as far as players height and arm length finger tip to grround? The chart says standard lie for someone of my height and finger tip to ground length. Any advise is appreciated, thanks.
I demoed the mp-52 today on the range. boy i was so excited after reading these reviews. i’m a 16 HC playing with this piece of crap Square Two blades from the early 90s. i hit them OK.
The mp-52s though were a little too much club for me. I struck it well here and there but the mishits weren’t forgiving like the MX-200 that I tried. Jeesh, the MX’s were the first cavity backed clubs I’ve ever hit and it was smooth as BUTTER. too smooth though perhaps.
I then tried out the TaylorMade R9 and was hooked. I could shape my shot still but had incredible distance, at least15 yards further than the mp-52. The r9 was quite forgiving, but it suits me better.
man, shopping for golf clubs is so much fun. this is my first time really doing it.
got my new mp-52’s in on friday, couldn’t be happier. Back ordered for a month, but well worth the wait. I play to a 9, was playing 15 yr old taylor made OS and finally decided it was time to get something shiny and new (essentially I wore the wife down until she gave it the green light). I’m a lefty so finding demo clubs is always a challenge. Got set up by the folks over at Haggin Oaks in Sacramento, went through all the left handed forged offerings, came down to Nike VR split cavity, Titleist AP2, and the MP-52’s. Took the 52’s because I was hitting them about a full club longer than the two other options and my miss hits tended to be better with the 52s than the other two as well. That doesn’t seem like it should be the case, but IMHO a lot of that comes down to weighting, perception, etc, etc. In the end ended up going with DG S300, 3 degrees flat. Took them out every day since I got them. First time on the range was a bit iffy as I had developed a bit of the “s” with a “hanks”. Worked through that and was puring it by the back nine. So to sum up if your a mid-low handicapper give the 52’s a try. I’d say if you are above a 15 or so you may want to look elsewhere for more forgiveness, but in the end you should make sure you are professionally fit for what ever you decide to go with.
I frequently read distance comparisons in this and other forum conversations. If you want to make a true comparison, make sure you are using the same shaft in the irons being compared and what loft is “standard”. The MP 52’s have weaker lofts than many of the clubs I have seen them compared to, Even the MX models of the Mizuno line.
While that’s true, it’s also important to note that the center of gravity plays a role in the launch angle of a club. For example, Titleist’s 695.MB was two degrees weaker than the 695.CB, but the set integrated at any point 3-PW due to similar launch angles across the sets. The CBs had stronger lofts but a lower center of gravity that kept launch angles consistent.
Additionally, players looking to swap in a new set of irons are often curious to know if they’ll need to adjust their set makeup at either end – long irons (hybrids) and wedges – in order to accommodate the different distances the new irons might hit the ball.
more a question than anything. I played the mp-30’s for about 2years then switched to the mp67’s. Now considering the mp-52’s to gain “slightly” more forgiveness than my 67’s give me. Is this a wise choice or is there a better “players club” out there for me that will accomplish my objective? I’m a 1 handicapp
Well…here it is 2024 and I’m still playing the venerable MP52. Came across them about 5 years ago. Purchased many sets off ebay for $200-300. Many look like new with dried out original grips. Hands down they are the best irons I’ve ever played. Tried the latest JPX forged – 923. They don’t come close. Feel, workability, feedback and just plan awesome looking clubs after all these years. You can’t go wrong.