Hey Mathew,

I have not played with the 981's, but I have played with their close cousins, the 990's.  These are similar to the cb irons that I have now.  The 981's have a slightly thicker topline than the 990 and it has a slightly deeper cavity, both providing the 981's with more forgiveness.  The 981's appear to be more similar to the AP2's.

I recommend the AP2 irons for you.  I have tested both the 714 AP2 and the cb.  They felt similar and looked similar at address.  The cb's and AP2's results and overall feel are the same with the pitching wedge through the 6-iron. The difference is ball flight, especially in the long irons.  The AP2's are easier to get up in the air.  A combo set is always an option as well.  The question for you is whether you want the cb or the AP2 (or a combo).  It depends on how you hit your long irons: AP2s are more forgiving with the long irons and the cb long irons feel more forged and are more like the mb's.  The cb's are great for me, but if you have trouble with your long irons, they might not be such a great idea.  I have heard frequent complaints about the cb long irons because they were not properly fit, so I you have any doubts at all, I would go with the AP2's.

I hope this helps with your ultimate decision.

Your friend,

Golf Machine

I played the 990 irons until last week. I tried both the 714 AP2's and CB. I tested both clubs one week and then went back to try the same two clubs again. For me the 714 CB's felt the best and the distance was also best with the 714CB. Played my first round with them last Monday and was very pleased with the performance I received. Will be playing again on Thursday as I missed Tues. & Wed. due to rain.  Good luck with your decision.

Hey Matthew,

Please keep us posted.  I look forward to seeing your ultimate decision, whatever that might be.  Thanks!

GM

Never played the 981's, but i can say the new 714 CB's are amazing... Not hard to hit at all and very consistent.