5 Best Iron Sets Under $500

Louis Pringle

Oct 13, 2023

8 minutes

There’s nothing like flushing your irons and dropping your approach shots near the pin time and time again. But to do this on the golf course, you’ll need to get your hands on the best iron set based on your needs and your budget. Lucky for you, Golf Avenue has got you covered with recommendations for the 5 best iron sets under $500.



To make your shopping experience easier than ever, our experts came up with a selection of the Top 5 best iron sets under $500 for golfers looking for an affordable used iron set. Follow us as we explore each option and break down their profiles to figure out which type of golfers they’ll be best suited for!

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1. TaylorMade M6 Iron Set

TaylorMade is renowned for producing some of the best iron sets in the world and the M6 iron set is no exception to that rule. Having had the opportunity to take the TaylorMade M6 iron set for a spin on the course, we can share our firsthand impressions of this innovative set. The standout feature, without a doubt, is the Speed Bridge technology. You can feel the difference in every swing, as the connection between the sole and top line provides an extra boost to the clubhead, resulting in noticeably increased ball speed and, consequently, improved distance.

We particularly appreciated the low center of gravity and the fluted hosel, both of which contribute to a higher launch angle and enhanced forgiveness. For someone who's still honing their skills, like many beginners, this forgiveness on off-center hits is a game-changer. It adds a level of consistency that's invaluable when you're out on the course.

Now, to address the not-so-glowing aspects. The sound and feel of the M6 irons might take a bit of getting used to. The unique sensation upon impact, thanks to the Speed Bridge and other technologies, could be a pro for some but a con for those who prefer the more traditional feel of irons. Additionally, if you're someone who enjoys working the ball and shaping shots deliberately, the M6 irons might not be your ideal choice, as they are designed more for straight and forgiving shots.

In conclusion, my personal experience with the TaylorMade M6 iron set has been positive overall, especially in terms of increased distance and forgiveness. However, as with any golf equipment, individual preferences play a significant role, so it's advisable to give them a try and see how they align with your own playing style.

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2. Srixon Z585 Iron Set

The Srixon Z585 iron set is a commendable choice for golfers seeking a balance of forgiveness and precision. We’ve had the opportunity to use these clubs, and they offer several noteworthy features. One of the standout pros is the forged construction, providing a soft and responsive feel at impact. This is especially beneficial for beginners who are still honing their swing as it provides valuable feedback.

The incorporation of the Tour V.T. sole enhances turf interaction, aiding in smoother ball contact. This feature can contribute to improved shot consistency, particularly for those who are still working on their swing mechanics. Additionally, the Z585 irons feature a progressive groove design, with stronger lofted irons having shallower grooves for better control, and deeper grooves in higher lofted irons for increased spin. This contributes to a well-rounded performance across the set.

On the flip side, some golfers may find the slightly larger clubhead of the Z585 to be a bit less traditional, impacting the aesthetics for those who prefer a more classic look like the Srixon Z-Forged II Iron Set. Additionally, while forgiveness is a strength, some experienced players might desire a bit more workability in shot shaping, which could be limited with these irons.

In conclusion, the Srixon Z585 iron set is a solid choice, particularly for beginners and high handicappers looking for forgiveness without sacrificing feel. However, personal preferences and playing styles may influence whether these clubs align with an individual golfer's needs.

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3. Callaway Steelhead XR Iron Set

The Callaway Steelhead XR iron set is a notable choice for golfers seeking a blend of forgiveness and distance. Having personally experienced the clubs, we can attest to their solid performance. The design incorporates a refined steelhead shape, which contributes to a pleasing aesthetic and inspires confidence at address.

One of the key advantages of the Steelhead XR is its impressive distance capabilities. The incorporation of a next-generation 360 Face Cup technology enhances ball speed, translating to greater distances, particularly on off-center hits. This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners still honing their swing consistency.

Moreover, the clubs showcase a commendable level of forgiveness. The perimeter weighting ensures a larger sweet spot, minimizing the impact of mishits and providing a more forgiving experience for those still refining their swing mechanics.

However, it’s important to note that the Steelhead XR set might not be the ideal choice for players seeking a more workable iron or those who prioritize a softer feel at impact. Some golfers might find that the forgiveness of the club sacrifices a bit of the traditional feel that they enjoy in their irons.

In summary, the Callaway Steelhead XR iron set is a solid option for beginners and high-handicap players who prioritize distance and forgiveness. However, golfers with a preference for a softer feel or greater shot-shaping capabilities might want to explore other options like the Apex DCB 21 Iron Set or the Rogue ST Pro Iron Set.

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4. Cobra LTDx Iron Set

The Cobra LTDx iron set is a notable choice in the world of golf equipment, renowned for its innovative features and performance. Having personally experienced the clubs, we can provide insights into both their strengths and areas for consideration.

One of the standout advantages of the Cobra LTDx irons is their cutting-edge technology. The incorporation of a multi-material construction, blending a lightweight carbon fiber medallion with a forged face, contributes to enhanced feel and distance control. This amalgamation of materials strategically places weight for optimal forgiveness and stability during the swing, making it an appealing option for golfers seeking consistency.

In terms of playability, the clubs offer a commendable balance between workability and forgiveness. However, for golfers who prefer an extreme in either direction, seeking maximum shot shaping or an extra layer of forgiveness, alternative models might be worth considering.

In summary, the Cobra LTDx iron set is a technologically advanced choice with a price point that reflects its features. For those valuing performance and willing to invest, these irons can elevate the game. As with any golf equipment, personal preferences and playing style should guide your decision-making process.

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5. Cobra T-Rail 2 Iron Set

The Cobra T-Rail 2 iron set is a notable choice, especially for beginners and those looking to enhance their game. One of the standout features is its hybrid design, combining the precision of an iron with the forgiveness and playability of a hybrid. This blend caters to golfers who seek the best of both worlds. The hollow body construction, utilizing Baffler Rails, helps to lower the center of gravity, promoting higher launch angles and increased distance. This aspect is particularly beneficial for players struggling with achieving optimal ball flight.

The club’s design also incorporates a thin, high-strength face, enhancing ball speed and providing a satisfying feel upon impact. This is advantageous for golfers aiming to maximize their distance potential. Additionally, the T-Rail 2 iron set boasts a sleek appearance, instilling confidence at address and contributing to an overall positive aesthetic experience.

However, it’s essential to consider the potential drawbacks. Some golfers might find the hybrid-like appearance a bit unconventional, requiring an adjustment period for those accustomed to traditional iron designs. The club’s forgiveness can sometimes be a double-edged sword, as more advanced players might miss the precision offered by a traditional blade iron.

In conclusion, the Cobra T-Rail 2 iron set is a compelling option, especially for beginners seeking a forgiving yet powerful club. While it may take some time to adapt to the hybrid-inspired design, the benefits in terms of distance and playability could significantly enhance the overall golfing experience.

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We hope that one of these recommendations is to your liking. Our experts picked these clubs based on their availability on Golf Avenue’s website and their ability to answer the needs of specific golfer profiles.

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Whether you’re after a game-improvement set or looking for a players’ set, our caddies are always there to help you out. You can always book a free call to meet with them so that they can provide you with expert advice and recommendations. They have plenty of suggestions available to you on our blog already, including a selection of the 9 best drivers under $300.

Until next time,

The Golf Avenue team