Tourstage is primarily a Japanese product even though they fall under the Bridgestone name. But, seeing as how we live and work in Hawaii which is a cross-over market for them, I was able to get my hands on a set of Tourstage 701 irons.
The Japanese have always been known for their fantastic forgings and club designs and this set is no different. The only difference in set make up is that the iron sets are sold as 5i-pw. Also, the fact that they are designed for Japanese players makes the stats on them pretty weird as far as American irons go.
The set I tested/own came with True Temper s200 shafts which are 1/2 in under American standard. That means the 5i measured in at 37.5 in instead of 38 in. Upon inspection I found that the length, lie and swing weight were dead on. The 5i even came with a sticker on the shaft that states what all those factors are. That was kinda neat and ensures that Tourstage takes pride in its product and quality control.
This is one beautiful iron set as there is minimal offset, a medium width top line and cavity back which has a magnesium insert to improve feel. Not that they need the insert as the heads are forged anyway. These irons feel awesome! Mis hits still go to the target with minimal distance loss and without that "oops I just mis hit a forged iron" feel in the hands.
I was a little hesitant about getting s200's a half inch under my normal length as I would have to re shaft them, bend them and tweak them again and again. Not this set! I found that the 701's fit me perfectly and NO adjustment what so ever was needed.
Like I stated before, the irons come in sets of 5i-pw and come stock with s200's or NS Pro 950's. If one orders the irons with NS Pro's the clubs come out 1/4 in longer and 1 swing weight point lighter than those with s200's. A 3i and 4i can be ordered separately if one wants them.
As far as ordering this product or anything from Tourstage, one must live in Hawaii or Japan. But, our store, Golf-Maui can get these irons and lots of other products from Tourstage and ship them all over the world.
We can be reached at 800-981-5512 or visit our website www.golf-maui.com
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