FIRST LOOK: PXG’s tour-inspired 0311 X Gen4 driving iron

The driving iron remains a popular long-iron and/or hybrid replacement in the professional ranks, but that shouldn’t deter recreational golfers from considering the idea of adding one to their gear setup. Along with having the ability to flight the ball underneath the wind, the club offers two attributes no golfer — not even a multi-time PGA Tour winner — will decline: control and distance.

“I use a driving iron when I’m looking for a little more control but am not willing to sacrifice too much distance off the tee,” said two-time Tour winner Jame Hahn. “It’s obviously great in windy and firm conditions but has a lot more to offer than just knee-high bullets into the wind.”

Hahn is one of a number of PXG staffers who’ve embraced the new 0311 X driving iron, which leans heavily on the equipment manufacturer’s proprietary Gen4 technology. The head profile was also created with direct feedback from tour players who wanted to see thin top rail and minimal offset on the PXG’s latest creation. (While the head is slightly larger, it’s designed to blend in with the rest of PXG’s Gen4 iron lineup.)

The back surfaces are also milled for precision, and to reduce wall thickness — a process that also gives the club an eye-catching look.

A large back weight near the center-of-gravity is designed to be removed during the fitting process to dial-in swing weight for optimal performance. Along with serving a swing weight purpose, the back weighting helps deliver a low, penetrating flight that’s ideal for windy conditions or golfers who simply want more flight control off the tee.

“I absolutely love the 0311 X driving iron,” said LPGA tour pro Linnea Strom. “When playing in wind, it is a great option for me instead of my hybrid. The ball contact and flight are very consistent. It has the height and spin that I want, and it is easy to hit both off the fairway and the tee.”

PXG’s Gen4 0311 X driving iron is available in two finishes (Chrome or Xtreme Dark) for right- and left-handed golfers.

Want to overhaul your bag for 2022? Find a fitting location near you at GOLF’s affiliate company True Spec Golf. For more on the latest gear news and information, check out our latest Fully Equipped podcast below!