Bridgestone 220 MB, 221 CB & 222 CB+ Irons: A Deep Dive Review

Bridgestone golf irons have a long and storied history, known for their exceptional feel, precision, and performance. The latest lineup, featuring the 220 MB, 221 CB, and 222 CB+ irons, continues this tradition, offering options for a wide range of skilled golfers. This review will provide an in-depth look at each model, covering design, technology, player testing results, and more, to help you determine which set is right for your game. We'll analyze their features, compare their performance, and provide a comprehensive guide.

Bridgestone 220 MB: Modern Muscle Back Mastery

The Bridgestone 220 MB (Muscle Back) irons are designed for the purist, the golfer who demands ultimate control and feedback. These irons feature a compact head shape, minimal offset, and a thin topline, appealing to the eye of the accomplished player. The forged construction provides exceptional feel, allowing golfers to precisely shape shots and control trajectory. The 220 MB are crafted for players who value workability and feedback above all else. Read our article on choosing the right blade iron.

The key features of the 220 MB include a refined sole grind for improved turf interaction and a strategically placed center of gravity (CG) for optimal ball flight. While forgiveness isn't the primary focus, the 220 MB offers surprising stability for a muscle back design. It's a true player's iron, rewarding precise strikes with exceptional performance.

Bridgestone 221 CB: Classic Cavity Back Performance

The Bridgestone 221 CB (Cavity Back) irons offer a blend of forgiveness and workability, making them a great option for a wider range of golfers than the 220 MB. These irons feature a slightly larger head size and a more forgiving cavity back design, providing enhanced stability and distance on off-center hits. The 221 CB still maintains a clean, classic look that will appeal to better players.

The 221 CB utilizes a multi-material construction, combining forged steel with strategically placed tungsten weighting to optimize the CG and increase MOI (Moment of Inertia). This results in a more forgiving iron that still provides excellent feel and control. Players looking for a balance of forgiveness and precision will find the 221 CB to be an excellent choice.

Bridgestone 222 CB+: Enhanced Forgiveness and Playability

The Bridgestone 222 CB+ irons represent the most forgiving option in the lineup. These irons feature a larger cavity back design and enhanced perimeter weighting, providing maximum stability and distance on mishits. The 222 CB+ is designed for golfers who prioritize forgiveness and ease of use, without sacrificing feel and control. They offer the highest launch and spin rates of the three models.

With the 222 CB+, Bridgestone has incorporated advanced technologies to optimize performance, including a redesigned sole for improved turf interaction and a progressive offset design for enhanced playability. While still maintaining a classic aesthetic, the 222 CB+ offers a significant boost in forgiveness compared to the 220 MB and 221 CB. Learn more about iron technology.

Player Testing and Performance Analysis

During player testing, the Bridgestone 220 MB irons were favored by low-handicap golfers who appreciated their exceptional feel and workability. These players were able to consistently shape shots and control trajectory with precision. The 221 CB irons were well-received by mid-handicap golfers who valued the balance of forgiveness and control. These players found the 221 CB to be more forgiving than the 220 MB, while still providing excellent feedback. The 222 CB+ irons were praised for their forgiveness and ease of use, making them a great option for golfers of all skill levels. Ultimately, choosing the right set depends on your individual skill level, playing style, and preferences.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Bridgestone Iron for Your Game

The Bridgestone 220 MB, 221 CB, and 222 CB+ irons offer a range of options for skilled golfers. Whether you prioritize ultimate control, a balance of forgiveness and workability, or maximum forgiveness and ease of use, there's a Bridgestone iron to suit your needs. Consider your skill level, playing style, and preferences when making your decision. We encourage you to test each model to determine which set feels best in your hands and performs best on the course.

Ready to upgrade your iron game? Explore our collection of Bridgestone irons today!