Callaway X Prototype Combo Iron – Japan Forged + MILLED
The X Prototype Combo Iron is an upgraded version of the already popular X FORGED irons that dropped earlier this year. Those irons were a hit, and now Callaway Japan has taken it a step further with this limited-edition set launching in August. At the time of writing this blog post we only have a few sets left.
The key thing to note is that these are Made in Japan using the gigantic enomoto press, then the raw forged single pressed head is CNC milled for it’s base shape and aesthetics. Then the rough milling marks are polished away to to complete the club. Japan Forged & CNC Milled in Tochigi Japan by Sasaki Co.
This set is a combo of 7 irons (I#4-9, PW), just like the X FORGED, with a 33-degree loft on the I#7. But what sets the X Prototype apart is the mix of head shapes. The I#4-7 are cavity back, giving you that extra forgiveness on longer shots, while the I#8, 9, and PW shift to a muscle-back design for more control when you need it.
Thanks to a unique forged + milled construction, you get an incredibly soft feel at impact. Unlike traditional methods that can harden the material, these clubs are forged with just one strike, then precision-milled to perfection. The result? A pure, soft feeling.
The leading and trailing edges are chamfered, and the sole width has been fine-tuned for better performance. Plus, the loft markings are smaller, giving it a sleek, refined look. Now, here’s the real kicker—every single part of these irons is made in Japan. From the forging of the head by Sasaki Corporation in Tochigi Prefecture to the assembly of the shaft and grip, it’s all done right here. That’s what makes the X Prototype truly special.
The team at Callaway wanted to create something that was the ultimate “Made in Japan” iron, and they nailed it. Even Callaway’s American headquarters got hyped about it, with everyone buzzing about how cool and exclusive these irons are.
This iron set is the result of a close partnership between Callaway’s American and Japanese teams. The American development team even traveled to Japan to see how Sasaki Corporation works. This collaboration made the X Prototype exceptional.
When discussing full-milled irons, it’s essential to mention SEVEN Golf, as it too utilizes the Enomoto machine for single-press forging. To clarify, while SEVEN Golf and other brands like Callaway use the same forging and milling factory, SEVEN takes the process significantly further. Where Callaway concludes its milling process, SEVEN is only halfway done. SEVEN Golf invests in additional, costly steps to meticulously mill the hosel, neck, transitions, and the entire sole from heel to toe. This level of detail is something both Taylormade and Callaway have chosen not to pursue, primarily due to the associated costs.
SPECIFICATION
Club | I#4 | I#5 | I#6 | I#7 | I#8 | I#9 | PW |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Head Material/Construction | Soft Iron Forged (S20C) + High-Precision Milling | ||||||
Club Length (inches) | 38.5 | 38.0 | 37.5 | 37.0 | 36.5 | 36.0 | 35.75 |
Loft Angle (°) | 23.0 | 26.0 | 29.0 | 33.0 | 37.0 | 41.0 | 46.0 |
Lie Angle (°) | 60.5 | 61.0 | 61.5 | 62.0 | 62.5 | 63.0 | 63.25 |
Set Lineup | ○: 7-Club Set (I#4-9, PW) |