Bettinardi has been responsible for dreaming up some of the best putters in the game for a long time, so when news broke that it was releasing some iron models to market, I was very interested to see what followed. In this review, I am looking at the CB24 model that aims to take its place amongst the best irons of 2024.
In terms of design, the head is a one-piece forging of 1025 carbon steel but within that, they also feature what Bettinardi refers to as tri-material construction. Essentially, this is the internal introduction of high-density tungsten and military-grade CMC (Ceramic Matrix Composite) that is aimed at maximizing forgiveness and also allows Bettinardi to pinpoint CG locations depending on the loft of the club. This is aimed at providing more launch in the long irons and better spin control in the scoring clubs. The CB24 aims to provide ultimate playability through the progressive CG location and perimeter weighting.
From a looks perspective, much like the MB24 model, Bettinardi has done an exceptional job in terms of shelf appeal here. The cavity detailing is exquisite and the small chrome accents really pop on the otherwise brushed satin finish. I would never get bored of looking at these in the bag. However, as with the MB24, down by the ball they aren’t as pretty as some for me. The refinement of the back of the clubhead isn’t mirrored down by the ball where they look a bit cumbersome in my opinion.
The top line is a touch thicker than many other irons in this category such as the Titleist T100 or the Mizuno Pro 243, giving them a somewhat chunky look at address. Furthermore, I am not a big fan of the transitions from hosel to head, or probably even more so from the hosel to the leading edge. The transition line just pinches in a little too much for me creating the illusion of more offset than is actually present. As always though, aesthetics are very much a subjective topic and some people may well be looking for that slightly meatier look in their irons.
The overall performance of the CB24 irons was very good, both from a data perspective and also in the more unquantifiable areas such as feel, turf interaction, and workability. I tested the Bettinardi CB24 irons at Saunton Golf Club, with TaylorMade TP5 golf balls and gathered data using my FullSwing KIT launch monitor.
I found a touch more ball speed than with the MB24 model, which was reflected in the slightly livelier feel, while launch and spin remained pretty similar, producing an average 7-iron carry number of 177 yards. This sits pretty much in the middle of the pack of the irons I have tested in 2024 in the low handicap iron category.
My highlight of testing was the feel of the CB24 which was very high-end. There’s a real depth to strike but also a hint of liveliness which is a pleasant combination and the contoured sole does a good job of guiding the clubhead smoothly through the turf.
The CB24 irons come with an RRP of $1600 for a seven-iron set and come with a couple of stock shaft options (KBS Tour and Dynamic Gold MID 100) along with numerous other custom offerings. The stock grip is a Bettinardi logoed Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360.
On the whole, despite my misgivings around the address profile, the Bettinardi CB24 irons are a really solid set of forged cavity back irons, that will not only perform well but will also feel great and look sensational in your golf bag!
