TaylorMade’s new M3 and M4 irons build upon the successes of their 2017 predecessors, the M1 and M2 irons, with a quantum leap in performance with the introduction of the new RIBCOR Technology.
RIBCOR Technology provides a new internal support system that works with TaylorMade’s proven Face Slot Technology to achieve increased ball speed across the entire face, further enhancing distance and tightening dispersion while improving sound and feel.
The Science of RIBCOR
When the clubhead of an iron strikes a ball, only a certain percentage of the energy is imparted back into the ball as reflected by the measured COR. Any flexing of the head that is not directly located at the impact point is lost energy. By strategically stiffening the structure of the iron head, RIBCOR Technology greatly reduces energy loss, especially on mis-hits.
RIBCOR Technology works in conjunction with Face Slots to stiffen the area outside the scorelines while retaining flexibility and COR within. The outer structure of the iron remains stiff, while the face remains free to flex during impact – enhancing energy transfer that leads to increased ball speed.
By efficiently focusing impact energy directly back to the ball, off-centre hits see higher ball speeds, more carry distance and improved dispersion. RIBCOR Technology also allows for placement of additional mass in the heel and toe to increase moment of inertia (MOI) significantly compared to the corresponding 2017 irons.
M4 Irons: Maxing out MOI
The M4 irons offer increased distance, forgiveness and feel. The new irons push the boundary of COR limit, providing the maximum possible ball speed off the face.
To achieve M4’s crisp sound and feel, the RIBCOR internal ribbing structure works to stiffen the body. A multi-material damping badge works in tandem with RIBCOR to efficiently dampen undesirable vibrations. The M4 irons also utilise proven TaylorMade technologies including Face Slots and Speed Pocket, as well as a new, redesigned off-centre Inverted Cone Technology.
The M4 also boasts a Fluted Hosel 2.0, ultra-thin 1mm topline along with TaylorMade’s thinnest-ever leading edge. Optimised mass distribution (toward the heel and toe) result in a high resistance to twisting of during off-centre impacts. This high-MOI head designs (24% higher than ’17 M2) helps all levels of golfers achieve faster ball speeds and more distance across the face along with optimal forgiveness.
For Asian specs, the M4 irons come with the MCC Fubuki TM6 graphite shaft (S, R) or FST REAX 90 JP steel shaft (S, R). The ladies version is fitted with the MCC Fubuki TM4 graphite shaft (L) while Global specs give players a choice of KBS MAX 85 steel shafts (S, R) and Fujikura ATMOS graphite shafts (7S, 6R).
M3 Irons: Forgiveness with Workability
The M3 irons answer the challenge of creating an iron that delivers distance, while retaining accuracy and workability in a more appealing, compact head shape preferred by better players.
Similar to the M4, the M3 irons push the legal limit of COR. TaylorMade engineers were able to accomplish this by incorporating new technologies, including RIBCOR, which stiffens the iron’s body to increase energy transfer efficiency to the ball. Additionally, a multi-material damping badge works in tandem with RIBCOR to efficiently dampen undesirable vibrations at impact for a clean, crisp sound and feel.
High-density tungsten of 15g has been added to the sole, which allowed engineers to create the more compact head shape while still maintaining a low CG and high MOI.
The M3 irons also incorporate TaylorMade’s proven technologies such as Face Slots, Speed Pocket and a redesigned off-centre Inverted Cone. Additional features include a 180° Fluted Hosel, 360° Undercut and individually sized tungsten weights to optimise CG.
The refined clubhead features a thinner topline than the M1 and a straighter leading edge. The irons are also shaped to enhance effective bounce, which helps maintain turf interaction conditions.
For Asian specs, the M3 irons are equipped with the MCC KuroKage TM6 graphite shaft (S, R) or NS Pro930 JP steel shaft (S, R). The Global version comes with the True Temper XP100 steel shaft (S300, R300) or MCC Tensei graphite shaft (80S/70R).
SRP (4-9, P) M3 Irons graphite – RM5,490
M3 Irons steel – RM4,890
M4 Irons graphite – RM4,690
M4 Irons steel – RM4,290