Cobra Baffler XL Hybrid Review

Written by: Tony Korologos | Wednesday, December 11th, 2013
Categories: Golf ClubsGolf EquipmentGolf GearReviews
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Cobra Golf is definitely on an ascending path.  Their gear is getting better and better.  The latest example is the new Cobra Baffler XL Hybrid, what Cobra says is the most forgiving and easy-to-hit hybrid in their 40 year history.

Cobra Baffler XL Hybrid - click to zoom

Cobra Baffler XL Hybrid – click to zoom

Has Cobra been making hybrids for 40 years?  Anyway… Lets take a look.

Cobra Golf - Baffler XL Hybrid

Cobra Golf – Baffler XL Hybrid

Baffler XL Features

One of the most unique features of the Baffler series of clubs for many years (maybe even 40), has been the trademark rails on the bottom of the club.  What do the rails actually do?  They provide smooth turf interaction as less of the club is in contact with the ground.  The lower drag on the sole and leading edge of the club help the club launch the ball higher and longer from all kinds of lies.

The Baffler XL Hybrid has tungsten weighting positioned at critical places low and in the back of the club.  This weighting increases the clubs MOI (moment of inertia).  The higher the MOI the more resistant the club is to twisting.  This makes even off-center hits fly farther and straighter.

The center-of-gravity of the Baffler XL Hybrid is also low and back.  The result is a high trajectory shot with low spin and more distance.

Specifications/Models

Model Loft Length Swing
Weight
Stock
Flex
RH/LH
2H 17° 41″ D2.5 S, R, Lite RH
3H 19° 40.50″ D2.5 S, R, Lite RH/LH
4H 22° 40.00″ D2.5 S, R, Lite RH/LH
5H 25° 39.50″ D2.5 S, R, Lite RH/LH
6H 28° 39.00″ D2.5 S, R, Lite RH/LH
7H 31° 38.50″ D2.5 S, R, Lite RH/LH

Shafts

Model Flex Weight Kick Torque Tip Diameter
Baffler XL Graphite Hybrid A 60g Low Mid 0.370
Baffler XL Graphite Hybrid R 62g Mid Mid 0.370
Baffler XL Graphite Hybrid S 63g Mid Mid 0.370
Cobra Golf Baffler XL Hybrid Topline - click to zoom

Cobra Golf Baffler XL Hybrid Topline – click to zoom


Looks and Feel

I’m not a big fan of blue (college football issues).  But the dark blue hue of this club is beautiful.  My playing partners have all salivated over this beauty.  The look at address is as Cobra advertises, confidence inspiring.

The feedback of the club in feel and especially audibly, is great.  The club makes a very nice sounding “ping” on crisp shots.  You know when you’ve hit the sweet spot.

On The Course

There was a slight period of adjustment for me with this club.  I think it is primarily due to the mid kick point of the shaft.  I had to experiment a bit with ball position before I started to hit it really well.  The best position, forward in the stance, produced some amazing results.

Once dialed in the XL for me launched very high and produced a slight draw.  I’m normally a straight ball player.  The model I tested, 19 degrees, was great for layup shots on short par-4’s or going for it in two on par-5 holes.  The high launch and forgiving performance made those very long par-3 holes quite fun.

I understand and love the rails now.  This hybrid launches the ball brilliantly from any kind of lie, tight or thick.

Baffler XL Hybrid Head Cover - click to zoom

Baffler XL Hybrid Head Cover – click to zoom

Head Cover

I dig the head cover on the Baffler XL.  It is small and fairly thin, which helps keep it from taking up too much space in my bag.  I typically use smaller carry bags so club real estate is valuable.

Despite being so compact, the cover protects this beauty well.

Critiques

My only critique is that the club is only available in blue (a college football issue once again).  I’d prefer any other color.

Conclusion

At $159 retail, the Baffler XL is a great hybrid.  It is very easy to hit, launches the ball very high, and produces long shots.  This one has earned a starting position in the bag, and the previous hybrid is now keeping the garage warm.

Related Links

Cobra Baffler XL Hybrid pictures

Cobra Am Cell irons review

Cobra Amp Cell driver review


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