Short answer: the P790 is the larger, more forgiving iron and fits more golfers. The P770 is the smaller, more compact version for players who strike it well and want a cleaner look at address. Both are forged, hollow-body irons filled with SpeedFoam, and both go a long way for their look.
What is the difference between the P770 and P790?
| P770 | P790 | |
|---|---|---|
| Head size | Smaller, shorter blade length | Larger |
| Topline and sole | Thinner topline, narrower sole | Thicker topline, wider sole |
| Construction | Forged hollow body, SpeedFoam, tungsten | Forged hollow body, SpeedFoam, tungsten |
| Forgiveness | Good for a players' iron | More |
| Best fit | Lower handicaps | Mid handicaps and improving players |
| Used iron sets at GolfRoots | About $600 to $950 | About $470 to $1,400 |
Prices are from GolfRoots listings at the time of writing. Every club is its own listing, so the year, number of clubs, shaft and condition move the price.
Which is more forgiving, P770 or P790?
The P790. The bigger head and wider sole help on thin and toe strikes, and it launches a bit higher. Distance is close between the two when you hit the center. The P770 gives up some forgiveness for a smaller head that better players like to look down at.
Who should play the P770?
Golfers who hit the center most of the time, want a compact shape, and still want more speed than a muscle back or cavity back blade. If you have been playing a set like the Titleist T100 or a Mizuno Pro and want a little more help, it is worth a look.
Who should play the P790?
Most mid handicaps. It looks like a players' iron from address but plays easier than one. It is also a good step up for someone leaving a chunky game improvement set who does not want to give up much forgiveness. We compared it to its closest rival in P790 vs Titleist T200, and you can read more about the model itself in the P790 spotlight.
Can you mix P770 and P790 in one set?
Yes, and a lot of players do. A common setup is P790 long irons for help where you need it and P770 short irons for control. We have combo sets like this from time to time, and we also sell single irons if you want to build your own. Single P770 and P790 irons usually run about $70 to $130 at GolfRoots.
What to check on a used set
- Year. Both models have had several generations. The year is in our listing title.
- Makeup. 4-PW and 5-AW are the most common. Not sure what those mean? Read how to read a used iron set listing.
- Shaft and length. Flex and length are in the title. Lofts and lies can drift on any forged iron, so a loft and lie check is worth it.
Try before you buy
Come hit them on the simulator in our Farmers Branch shop, Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. Shop used iron sets or single irons online.
FAQ
Is the P790 a game improvement iron?
Not quite. It is usually called a players' distance iron. It has a compact look but more forgiveness than a true players' iron.
Do the P770 and P790 go the same distance?
On center strikes they are close. The P790 tends to hold its distance better on mishits.
Is an older P790 still worth buying?
For most golfers, yes. Older generations cost less used and still have the same hollow-body, SpeedFoam design.
