The Cobra Baffler Rail H appears to be slighter larger than it's DWS predecessor

I’ve had my Cobra Baffler DWS 4 Hybrid a long time and it is one of the most important clubs in my bag.  I use it off the tee on tight par 4′s and long par 3′s.  It has become my go-to approach club from between 180 and 200 yards out.  The Baffler is my rescue club to get back into the fairway when I’ve hit into long rough or into a stand of trees.  I’ve even chipped with it from off the green.

I’ve resisted the urge to replace my old trusty friend because it’s like a warm security blanket in all those situations – the golf version of a woobie.  But that was before I tried the new Cobra Baffler Rail H Hybrid.

Pros

Compared to my old Baffler, the Rail H club head is slightly larger but it has a sleeker appearance at address because the steel face insert is now a carbon black color that effectively blends in with the rest of the crown.  It looks more like a small fairway wood versus an over-sized iron.  Deciding which is better is purely a matter of opinion and ultimately player preference.

The topline of the Cobra Baffler Rail H is changed for 2010.

The Rail H feels slightly lighter than the DWS and as a result I found myself swinging a little harder (not always a good thing).  The feel is very substantial/solid on center contact, but that’s not a huge change from previous models.  The Fujikura Motore is a very good stock shaft and proved to be smooth and extremely stable.

Cobra has decided to go with stronger lofts this time around (22 versus 23 degrees for the 4/H) and the ball flight was lower and about five yards longer.  The most significant change other than aesthetics is the new four-way rail sole which according to Cobra “relieves more contact area for improved turf interaction.”  I found the Baffler Rail H to be considerably more forgiving off the deck and from the rough.  I had a tendency to hit the old model a little fat when my swing was off.  That has been all but eliminated with the new sole design.

Cons

My biggest gripe about the DWS model is it’s draw bias.  I have snap hooked it at times with disastrous results.  This new Baffler feels more neutrally weighted, but I still had a much easier time drawing the ball than cutting it.

The club head cover is a little loud for my taste, but that is a minor annoyance.  Club head covers can be replaced.

Final Word

The Cobra Baffler Rail H is one of the best and most versatile hybrids in its class.  The sole design alone is worth an upgrade for current Baffler owners.  I  will have a hard time sending this one back.  My woobie is scared.  It’s days may be numbered.

The Cobra Baffler Rail H retails for $150 and is available in lofts of 17, 19, 22, 25, 28 degrees.  To visit Cobra’s website for more information and complete specs, click here.