Rickie Fowler Irons: Specs, Performance & Buying Guide - SirShanksAlot.com

Rickie Fowler’s distinctive style isn’t limited to his vibrant outfits; it extends to his meticulously chosen golf clubs, especially his irons. The Rickie Fowler irons have garnered significant attention, not just for their sleek design but also for their performance-driven features. This article provides a comprehensive look at the clubs that help Fowler shape his shots and achieve those impressive results on tour. We’ll explore the key features of his Cobra King Tour irons and the limited edition King RF Forged MB Copper irons, examining the technology and design that make them unique. We’ll also delve into the evolution of his iron choices, his collaboration with Cobra, and what makes these clubs a good fit for his playing style. Join us as we dissect the secrets behind Rickie’s iron game.

Key Takeaways

Rickie Fowler’s Cobra King Tour irons are designed for shot shaping and control. Features like a thin topline, minimal offset, and KBS Tour C-Taper shafts give skilled players the tools to work the ball and control trajectory.
Forged construction and vibration-dampening technology enhance feel and feedback. The five-step forging process and internal TPU material create a soft, responsive feel at impact, allowing golfers to fine-tune their swing based on feedback from each shot.
These irons are best suited for consistent ball-strikers. While not strictly blades, they demand a higher level of precision than game-improvement irons. Consider your skill level and playing style before making the investment.

What Irons Does Rickie Fowler Use?

Want to know the secret weapon in Rickie Fowler’s bag? He uses Cobra King Tour irons. Let’s break down why these clubs are his go-to choice.

Key Features and Specs

Rickie’s Cobra King Tour irons have a thinner topline and less offset than your average club, giving them a sleek, player-preferred look. Forged from 1025 carbon steel using a five-step process, these irons boast a uniform grain structure for precise shaping and consistent performance. Inside the CNC milled cavities, you’ll find a special TPU material. This dampens vibrations, creating a satisfying feel and sound at impact.

The KBS Tour C-Taper 125 S+ Shafts

Rickie pairs his Cobra irons with KBS Tour C-Taper 125 S+ shafts, known for their exceptional feel and control. These shafts allow for on-the-fly adjustments, giving golfers like Rickie the adaptability they need to excel on the course.

Design for Skilled Golfers

The Cobra King Tour irons are part of a larger family that includes the MB, CB, and Tour models, all designed for better players. The Tour model, specifically, caters to golfers ranging from a 7-handicap to tour professionals, making them a perfect fit for Rickie’s game. This design philosophy prioritizes playability and performance for those with more developed skills.

What Makes These Irons Unique?

These irons, born from a close collaboration between Rickie Fowler and Cobra Golf, stand out with a unique blend of features designed for the discerning golfer. Let’s explore what makes them special.

Workability and Shot Shaping

The Cobra 2023 KING Irons, including the CB, MB, and CB/MB Combo sets, cater to players who value a compact look, a soft feel, and enhanced workability. These irons allow skilled golfers to precisely shape their shots, manipulating trajectory and curve. This level of control appeals to those who prioritize precision. D’Lance Golf highlighted these irons in Rickie’s bag at the 2023 Rocket Mortgage Classic, showcasing their design for players who demand accuracy.

Feel, Feedback, and Control

The KING RF Forged MB Copper irons elevate feel and feedback. Forged five times from 1025 carbon steel, these irons offer an exceptionally soft feel prized by elite players. Golfbidder describes this forging process as crucial for enhancing feel and providing essential feedback, allowing golfers to fine-tune their swing and make adjustments. Developed with input from Rickie Fowler, the design and finish reflect the high standards of performance and aesthetics demanded by tour professionals.

Distance and Accuracy

Rickie Fowler collaborated with Cobra’s Director of Tour Operations, Ben Schomin, to create an iron that delivers on looks, feel, and performance. The result is a set of irons that provides impressive distance without sacrificing accuracy. GolfWRX covered the release of these RF Proto irons, highlighting their compelling combination of features for golfers looking to improve their game.

Rickie Fowler’s Irons vs. Other Pro Models

Compact vs. Game Improvement Irons

Rickie Fowler’s iron choices offer a fascinating look into how pro setups can blend performance with a touch of forgiveness. He currently plays Cobra KING Forged CB/MB irons, a combo set. These aren’t your typical game-improvement irons. The Cobra KING Forged CB MB irons lean toward the “players iron” category—think thinner toplines, less offset, and a compact shape. This design gives skilled players like Fowler the control they need to shape shots and work the ball. While they offer incredible feel and performance, they also demand a higher level of precision. Fowler’s choice reflects the importance of workability in his game.

Spin Rates and Launch

One of the key elements that sets Fowler’s irons apart is their focus on spin and launch. His RF Proto irons, developed with Cobra, are engineered for optimal spin rates and launch angles. The KBS C-Taper shafts play a big role, promoting a controlled trajectory and consistent spin. This combination allows for pinpoint accuracy on approach shots, a crucial aspect of Fowler’s game. It’s a testament to how pros work with manufacturers to fine-tune their equipment. The attention to detail highlights the importance of spin control for professional-level performance.

Forgiveness Across Skill Levels

While Fowler often uses blade-style irons, his current setup incorporates a cavity-back design in the longer irons. This offers a degree of forgiveness not typically found in blades, making them slightly more accessible. The KING RF Forged MB Copper irons demonstrate this blend of traditional feel and modern forgiveness. They’re still demanding clubs, but the added forgiveness can help even on off-center hits. This makes them an interesting option for golfers who want the look and feel of a classic iron with a bit of help on mishits. It shows that even pros appreciate some forgiveness, especially in the longer irons.

Are These Irons Right for You?

So, you’re admiring Rickie Fowler’s sleek irons and wondering if they could elevate your game. These clubs—the Cobra King Tour irons and the more recent limited edition King RF Forged MB Copper irons—definitely pack a punch, but they’re not for everyone. Let’s break down who these irons are best suited for and the challenges they might present.

Recommended Skill Level

Cobra aims the King Tour irons at a range of players, from 7-handicappers to tour pros. The fact that Rickie Fowler himself uses these clubs speaks volumes. However, don’t let that intimidate you if you’re a skilled amateur. Golf Monthly highlights their playability, suggesting they’re surprisingly manageable for clubs designed for elite performance. Still, these are precision instruments, demanding a consistent swing and solid ball-striking to get the most out of them.

Playing Style Match

These irons are designed for a specific type of player: one who prioritizes workability and shot shaping. Rickie Fowler collaborated with Cobra to develop irons that deliver exactly what he needs in terms of feel, look, and performance. If you, like Rickie, enjoy shaping your shots and controlling trajectory, these irons could be a great fit. They offer the feedback and control necessary to execute precise shots, allowing you to work the ball both left and right and control your distances with accuracy.

Challenges for Higher Handicaps

While the King Tour irons offer a bit more forgiveness than a traditional muscle-back blade thanks to their cavity-back design, they still present challenges for higher handicappers. Essentially Sports notes that even Rickie opted for this design for added forgiveness. The King RF Forged MB Copper irons, however, are muscle-back blades, making them less forgiving. If you’re still developing consistency in your swing or struggle with mishits, these irons might exacerbate those issues, leading to inconsistent distances and accuracy. They require a precise strike to perform as intended, and off-center hits will be penalized more severely than with game-improvement irons.

Rickie Fowler’s Irons Through the Years

From RF Proto to KING RF Forged MB Copper

Rickie Fowler’s irons have garnered significant attention, especially his collaboration with Cobra Golf. The story begins with the RF Proto irons, replicas of the Rev33 irons Rickie developed and used on the PGA Tour. These irons, refined over 33 revisions, represent a key moment in his search for the perfect clubs. Cobra released these limited-edition RF Proto irons to the public, giving fans and golfers access to the same technology Rickie uses. The development continued with the KING RF Forged MB Copper irons, building upon the RF Proto design. These incorporated further feedback from Rickie, focusing on shaping, design, and that distinctive copper finish.

Custom Design and Collaboration

Creating Rickie Fowler’s signature irons was a collaborative effort. He partnered with Ben Schomin, Cobra’s Director of Tour Operations, to refine every detail of the clubs, ensuring they aligned perfectly with his needs. This collaboration prioritized achieving the ideal look, feel, and performance. The meticulous design process extended to choosing the rich copper finish, a personal touch from Rickie to distinguish his irons. This customization highlights Cobra’s dedication to delivering tour-level performance tailored to individual players.

Limited Edition Appeal

The limited availability of Rickie Fowler’s RF Proto irons contributed to their desirability. Priced at $2,499 per set, these irons featured KBS C-Taper shafts and Golf Pride Tour Align grips with Cobra Connect technology. The exclusivity and high-performance specs made them attractive to serious golfers. The fact that Rickie played these same irons on tour further amplified their appeal, offering a connection to the world of professional golf equipment.

Where to Buy Rickie Fowler’s Irons

Retailers and Online Options

Rickie Fowler’s irons, especially his Limited Edition RF Proto Irons, are available from a few select retailers. Worldwide Golf Shops, for instance, carries the RF Proto Iron Set, co-designed by Fowler himself and perfected over 33 revisions. You can explore the specs and purchase the Cobra RF33 Proto Iron Set directly from their website. For fans looking for more than just clubs, DICK’S Sporting Goods offers a selection of Rickie Fowler’s tour apparel and equipment, combining performance with his signature style.

Price and Value

The price of Rickie Fowler’s irons reflects their premium quality and design. The new RF Proto irons will set you back around $2,499 for a set. For that price, you get premium components like KBS C-Taper shafts and Golf Pride Tour Align grips featuring Cobra Connect technology. Golf.com offers a closer look at these irons, explaining their features and high-end positioning.

Promotions and Discounts

Savvy shoppers know to look for deals. When you’re ready to purchase Rickie Fowler’s irons, remember DICK’S Sporting Goods offers a Best Price Guarantee. If you find a lower advertised price on comparable Rickie Fowler gear, they’ll match it. This guarantee helps you get the best possible price on those coveted irons.

What People Are Saying

Curious to hear more about Rickie Fowler’s irons? Here are some perspectives from instructors, tour players, and amateur golfers:

Instructor Opinions

Golf instructors appreciate how Fowler’s Cobra irons balance feel and performance. Plugged In Golf’s review of the Cobra KING Forged CB/MB irons calls them “a dream come true” for better players, emphasizing their exceptional feel and performance. They consider these clubs superior to similar irons in several key areas.

Tour Player Insights

Insights from the tour highlight the detailed design process behind Fowler’s irons. GolfWRX reports that Fowler worked closely with Cobra’s Ben Schomin through 33 revisions to perfect the look, feel, and performance. This extensive development, starting from the TaylorMade Driving Relief skins game at Seminole, is also covered by Golf Digest, which mentions Fowler’s year-long involvement in the refinement process.

Amateur Golfer Experiences

Amateur golfers offer practical details about the irons. A Golf.com article outlines the specs of the RF Proto irons (4-PW, right-hand only), noting the KBS C-Taper shafts, Golf Pride Tour Align grips with Cobra Connect, and the $2,499 price. Golfbidder describes the KING RF Forged MB Copper irons as a refined evolution of the RF Proto, developed with Fowler’s input on the shaping, design, and copper finish.

Similar Iron Models

If the KING RF Forged MB Copper irons aren’t quite right for you, plenty of other options cater to skilled players. Here are a few similar iron models worth checking out:

TaylorMade P7MC

The TaylorMade P7MC irons are designed for players seeking precision and control. Like Rickie’s irons, they feature a compact shape and forged construction, enhancing feel and feedback. Known for accuracy, the P7MCs are a top choice for skilled golfers. The standard set configuration ranges from 3-iron to pitching wedge.

Callaway Apex Pro

The Callaway Apex Pro irons offer a blend of distance and control with their forged design. Engineered for better players who prefer a compact head, thin top line, and minimal offset, these irons use 360 Face Cup technology. This increases ball speed across the face, making them more forgiving on off-center hits while maintaining precision.

Titleist T100

Favored by tour players for their consistency, the Titleist T100 irons prioritize precision and shot-making. The forged construction provides exceptional feel and feedback. With a progressive blade length and a low center of gravity, the T100 irons improve launch and control.

Mizuno JPX921 Tour

The Mizuno JPX921 Tour irons blend a traditional look with modern performance. The compact head and forged construction enhance feel and control. Mizuno’s Harmonic Impact Technology optimizes sound and feel at impact, providing a high level of shot control for skilled golfers.

Ping i59

The Ping i59 irons are engineered for players who demand precision and performance. The sleek, compact design and forged construction enhance feel. The multi-material design optimizes weight distribution for improved launch and control, offering a balance of forgiveness and shot-shaping capability.

Get the Most Out of Your Irons

Whether you’re gaming Rickie Fowler’s irons or another model, maximizing their performance comes down to the right fit, practice, and care. Here’s how to get the most out of your irons:

Get a Proper Fitting

A proper iron fitting is crucial for any golfer, especially if you’re investing in a high-performance set. It ensures your clubs complement your swing and physique. Cobra’s KING Forged CB/MB irons, like many pro-level clubs, offer a range of shaft options and head weights. Getting dialed in with the right shaft can significantly impact your ball striking, trajectory, and overall consistency. Don’t underestimate the importance of this step—it’s your foundation for a solid iron game. A club fitting with a professional can help you identify the ideal combination of shaft flex, weight, and head design to optimize your performance.

Practice Drills for Precision

While Rickie Fowler might be known for his long iron prowess, even he recognizes the value of targeted practice. Honing your skills with irons requires dedicated drills that focus on distance control and accuracy. Experiment with different iron types, like the increasingly popular 3- and 4-irons designed with utility-iron characteristics. These can be surprisingly versatile and offer a blend of distance and control. Incorporate drills that emphasize consistent ball striking and trajectory control to truly dial in your iron play. Consider working with a coach to develop a practice plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Maintenance Tips

Maintaining your irons is just as important as choosing the right ones. Rickie Fowler’s distinctive copper finish on his RF Proto irons highlights the importance of aesthetics and craftsmanship. The forged construction of these clubs, often involving multiple forging processes, demands proper care to preserve their performance and appearance. Regularly clean your clubheads and grips. Store your irons in a protective case to prevent damage and maintain their pristine condition. A little care goes a long way in preserving the life and performance of your irons. This attention to detail will not only keep your clubs looking their best but also help maintain their playability over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s so special about Rickie Fowler’s irons? Rickie’s irons aren’t your average set. They’re forged from 1025 carbon steel, a material known for its soft feel and responsiveness. He uses Cobra King Tour irons paired with KBS Tour C-Taper 125 S+ shafts, a combination that offers exceptional control and workability. His more recent clubs, the limited edition KING RF Forged MB Copper irons, take this a step further with a unique copper finish and even more refined design features. These clubs are designed for shot shaping and precision, reflecting Rickie’s playing style.

Are Rickie Fowler’s irons suitable for average golfers? While inspiring, Rickie’s irons are designed for skilled players. They demand a consistent swing and precise ball striking. If you’re a higher-handicap golfer, you might find them challenging. The compact shape, thin topline, and minimal offset cater to players who prioritize workability and shot shaping. If you’re still developing consistency, game-improvement irons might be a better fit.

Where can I buy Rickie Fowler’s irons? You can find Rickie’s irons at select retailers like Worldwide Golf Shops and DICK’S Sporting Goods. Keep in mind that his RF Proto and KING RF Forged MB Copper irons were limited edition releases, so they might be harder to find. Be prepared for a premium price tag, reflecting the high-quality materials, craftsmanship, and tour-level performance.

What are some good alternatives to Rickie Fowler’s irons? If Rickie’s irons aren’t accessible or suitable for your game, several other models offer similar benefits. Consider options like the TaylorMade P7MC, Callaway Apex Pro, Titleist T100, Mizuno JPX921 Tour, or Ping i59 irons. These are all designed for skilled players who value feel, control, and workability.

How can I improve my iron play, regardless of what clubs I use? Improving your iron game involves more than just the clubs themselves. A proper fitting is essential to ensure your irons match your swing. Regular practice with drills focusing on distance control and accuracy is key. Finally, proper maintenance of your clubs will help preserve their performance and lifespan. Consider working with a golf instructor to develop a personalized practice plan and get the most out of your equipment.