PXG 0317 CB Irons

Well, we thought this might happen.

The new PXG 0317 CB is here but it’s more than just PXG’s latest iron release.

It likely marks the end of the “0311 T” model which combined a thin-face architecture with player-preferred aesthetics (less offset, thin topline, compact footprint).  But what the PXG 0317 CB seems to suggest is that the 0311 T wasn’t the ideal fit for the target golfer.

So let’s collectively pour one out for arguably the second most famous Model T.

That’s a reach. But, whatever.

The PXG 0317 CB is the iron that plenty of golfers have been asking PXG to make for some time. Matbe not explicitly, but they’ve dropped plenty of hints. At times, the 0311 T didn’t offer better players (primarily those with faster swing speeds) the type of distance and trajectory control they desired. My experience suggests that when you design an iron to generate a higher trajectory with less spin, there’s a fine line where too little spin can lead to inconsistent performance.

That aside, the PXG 0317 CB is named for the 0317 U.S. Marine Corps Scout Sniper, with the not so thinly veiled message of pinpoint accuracy. The remainder of the tech story is largely what you’d expect from a forged iron built to satisfy elite ball strikers and single-digit handicap golfers.   

 PXG 0317 CB BASICS

Starting with GEN5, PXG classified all its “GEN” franchise clubs into the larger 0311 family. Then it reassigned 0317 as the designation for “better player” irons. Initially, PXG had a single model in this class: the 0317 ST blade. Now, with the addition of the 0317 CB irons, PXG has two choices for better players which also provide the option for a combo set.  

It’s fair to suggest that the primary reason traditional cavity-back irons exist is to give players some combination of muscle-back aesthetics and cavity-back forgiveness. According to PXG Founder and CEO Bob Parsons, the 0317 CB is “for golfers who love the look and playability of a blade but know their game could use a little forgiveness every now and then.” 

(NOT) ABOUT THE TECH

Hold onto those torches and pitchforks for a moment. I’m not suggesting the PXG 0317 CB irons are devoid of technology. That would be preposterous.  But compared to PXG’s typical iron tech story, this one is pretty boilerplate “player’s cavity-back iron” sort of stuff.

The PXG 0317 CB is 3x forged from a billet of 8620 carbon steel and then CNC milled to maintain exacting spec tolerances and an upmarket finish. A tungsten back weight is available for fitters to fine-tune performance based on swing weight and the total club weight. As an aside, being open to experimenting with different head weights during a fitting might unlock some hidden performance. If this hasn’t been part of your typical fitting experience, it’s worth exploring.

SO, ABOUT THE TECH

With single-piece forged irons, the conversation shifts from thin faces and goo-filled cavities to alloys and design geometry. The 8620 carbon steel PXG uses in the 0317 CB irons isn’t as soft as 1020 or 1025 carbon steel, metallurgically speaking. However, it is the same material PING uses in its forged muscle-back Blueprint irons. With that, the specific alloy is only part of the equation. Of equal importance are the design and mass properties of the club. 

Beyond that, the PXG 0317 CB irons are CNC milled to “ensure every surface, curve and angle are produced to exact specifications.”  The final step is a robotic polishing process that generates “a flawless finish and unmatched consistency club to club.”

Compared to the 0311 GEN6 P and XP irons, the 0317 CB should have a more penetrating trajectory and more spin. Again, neither of those attributes is necessarily “better” unless it’s a better fit for your game. 

MY $.05

The 0317 CB is an intriguing release for PXG in that it solidifies the separation between the 0311 and 0317 equipment franchises. In addition, it potentially limits the options for golfers who want the performance of the 0311 GEN6 P but with a smaller footprint. Admittedly, that’s likely a small segment of golfers, though I’m still hoping for a 0317 long iron variant with the thin HT-1770 face to provide a bit more ball speed and height. (PXG, if you’re listening ….)

I’ll reserve any comments on performance until I have a chance to hit them but, speaking as someone who fits the target demographic, I’m eager to see how these stack up against my two clubhouse leaders: Mizuno JPX 923 Tour and Miura CB 302.

Stay tuned!

PXG 0317 CB Pricing and Availability

The new milled PXG 0317 CB Players Irons are available in a Chrome or Xtreme Dark finish. 

Pricing starts at $169.99 each (chrome).To buy online or schedule a fitting, visit www.PXG.com.

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