Update:
Well, I have played several rounds with these bad boys and here are my thoughts...
The good:
- Softer/solid feel, less hollow feeling.
- Long irons do seem to launch a bit higher and feel more forgiving (slightly) and the short irons seem easier to flight down when needed. Whether that's just me or they actually launch a bit lower - who knows.
The not so good:
- Overall, forgiveness seems about the same as does the distance. I'd be hardpressed to say that the EQ1's are any longer or more forgiving than the sterlings. If they are, its not that noticeable.
- The general finish is not good compared to sterlings. My EQ1' s are showing more cosmetic wear after a few rounds than over the last couple of years I played the sterlings. As well, I think I cracked my 7 iron too from normal use - waiting to here back from the place I bought the heads in regards to getting a replacement.
- No 4 iron. I wish this was an option because sometimes I rather play a 4 iron than a hybrid, Don't get me wrong, the EQ1 hybrid is great, i just wish a 4 iron was part of the set.
Summary:
I do believe the EQ1's are a nice upgrade to the sterlings, but from a performance perspective, the difference is small overall. If you like the sterlings and don't care too much about sound/feel then a full upgrade is probably not worthwhile, especially considering the lesser durability of the EQ1's. In this case, I would maybe just suggest getting the 5 and 6 iron, especially if you have trouble launching these.