If you’re in the market for a new, good-quality iron set, it’s only natural to opt for TaylorMade since it’s one of the industry leaders known to manufacture high-performance, long-lasting golfing equipment. However, since the company has come out with several well-received lines, it’s challenging to choose which one would be best suited to you. So, let’s discuss Speedblade and Speedblade HL – which is better?
The TaylorMade Speedblade and Speedblade HL are two iron sets released in 2013. The former boasts a higher trajectory, better playability, and increased control, while the latter features a larger clubhead that leads to increased forgiveness.
As you can see, besides their similar names, there’s not much these two iron sets share. So, read on as I explore their differences, advantages, and drawbacks.
Speedblade vs. Speedblade HL: Comparison Table
From the get-go, it’s clear that these two lines cater to different players. Without further ado, let’s look over some of the main differences between the two in terms of some of their most notable specs.
| Properties | Speedblade | Speedblade HL |
| Price Point | Moderate | Moderate-High |
| Loft Range | 19° – 60° | 19° – 55° |
| Clubhead Size | Standard | Large |
| Weight | Standard | Heavy |
| Control | Moderate | Low |
| Best Suited To | Mid or Low Handicappers | High Handicappers |
| Forgiveness | Moderate | High |
Now that you’ve gotten a better picture of how these two sets differ in terms of price point, loft range, clubhead size, weight, control level, handicap range, and forgiveness, let’s explore their individual pros and cons.
Speedblade
Here are some of this set’s main pros and cons:
Pros
- They strike a great balance between control and forgiveness.
- Excellent for a wide array of players.
- Can reach impressive distances, even if the shot is slightly off.
- Excellent value for the price, especially considering this is a TaylorMade model.
- They perform well for a long time.
- Great playability, allows you to progress your skill set while still making use of the same set.
Cons
- Not as forgiving as its HL counterpart.
- Not the best feel and feedback.
- Though the clubhead is lighter than HL’s, it’s still not lightweight enough for some players.
- They’re not the most workable irons on the market.
- They can show some signs of wear and tear over time.
- Not the best choice for beginners.
Speedblade HL
Here are some of the main advantages and drawbacks of the Speedblade HL set:
Pros
- Extremely forgiving.
- Excellent for beginners.
- Excellent value for the price.
- Easy to launch.
- Good feel.
Cons
- Not the best choice for more advanced players.
- Bulky.
- Doesn’t offer as much distance as the OG.
- Not the best feel and feedback.
Conclusion
The choice between Speedblade and Speedblade HL ultimately depends on your preferences, golfing style, and handicap level.
Due to their large clubheads and increased forgiveness, the Speedblade HL irons are better suited to higher handicappers who are just starting out and looking for a piece of equipment that can tolerate mishits without impacting their scores too drastically.
The OG Speedblade, on the other hand, offers a better balance between forgiveness and control, which is why it’s favored by a wider range of handicap levels. Even pros seem to gravitate toward this set.