X-18 vs. MX-23

Question
Michael,
Last year I went from a set of Mizuno MX-23 irons to the Callaway X-18 irons.  Steel shafts with standard flex on both sets.  Hitting the X-18s at the pro shop was awesome.  Everything went very well until I hit the course.  Last year my handicap went from 10 to 16.  Fat shots, shanks, thin shots and very noticeable decrease in distance.  I'm in good shape and exercise daily so nothing changed there.  My playing time hasn't changed much.  I try to play several times per week depending on my work schedule.  With the mizunos I could hit a 7 iron 150 to 160 yards with ease.  I have to jump to a Callaway 5 iron to make that same shot.  I went from being relatively consistent with my long irons to choking way down on my 5 wood to make sure I hit it solid.  Is there that big of a difference between the two sets of clubs.  I traded the mizunos in so I can't compare them side by side.  I think the main difference is the sole width.  I'm not an expert, but I wouldn't think that would make too big of a difference.  Could you give me any pointers to regain my confidence to get me back on my game?

Answer
Perry,

I know you're going through a frustrating time. You said "hitting the X-18s at the pro shop was awesome". Did you hit the clubs off a mat into a net? If so, never do this again when purchasing clubs. Always demo clubs outside off of grass.

I agree with you that the sole width, although it makes a difference, wouldn't cause you to drop down two clubs, cause fat shots, etc.

The best advice I can give you at this point is very simple. Ask your golf professional to get a MX-23 demo iron from the Mizuno representative. This way you can compare the clubs side by side. It could be as simple as this. If it is the clubs, the decision would be yours to make as far as purchasing a set like you had. You could also find a "demo day" in your area to try other clubs as well.

Perry, if it's not the clubs, I would strongly suggest taking a lesson from a PGA Professional. Find one that video tapes the lesson. This is a great opportunity to see your swing and have it analyzed by a Professional. This may be the best way to regain confidence in your game.

Good luck and let me know how it turns out.

Michael Hoffman