Bruce,

I would definitely consider the AP1. If you get properly fitted I think you would like them. I always played AP2 in the past but made the switch to AP1 and I am happy with the switch. I know of several PGA tour instructors that use them and love them as well. It is nice to have the extra help when you have an off day but also have a club that still performs the way you want it to when your on! 

A lot of the lower handicappers are going to the AP2s because they like the feel of a forged club, but are not ready for a true blade......if you check this site under players and see a good number of the tour players are playing them as well, but that is not a reason to run out and purchase them.....you need to go to a fitter and try them.....I was playing a cavityback and hit AP1s at a fitting then hit the AP2s and they just did not feel as good and I too did not like the look at address......I bought a used set of AP2s before I jumped into the big investment and played with them until the 714s came out and they really convinced me to purchase them......I still was fitted for the new set.....we changed shafts........not playing everyday, I am just now really hittng the new irons with power and on line and after a lesson to correct some really bad swing habits.........it's all about choices and I wish you well in making the right one for YOU......

Bruce, I would have you consider the AP1 irons based upon your comments ( I agree with Chris's comments).  I think you should not consider them a step down in terms of validity compared to your AP2's since they fit some players game very nicely on tour or amongst competitive amateurs I know.  While the number of people is using them is not as high as the AP2 irons, I think some of that is positioning of the product by Titleist.  I just bought my nephew a set of AP1's over the holiday and he loves them!

Chris, Chuck, and Chris,  Thanks for the comments. Opted for lessons, instead of equipment change. After 2 1 hour lessons at Amelia Island, and quality range time, the AP2's will stay in the bag. Turns out it's the Indian not the arrows. With a slower, shorter backswing, I am now hitting the ball more consistently. After 14 days in North Florida, will consider moving there, getting out of cold New England.

I was fitted at manchester lane and have to agree it is second to none. As far as my game goes I`m similiar to you that this year i brought my handicap significantly down from a 20 to a 13. Started to get a little ahead of my self until i played with a friend of mine who is a 3 handicap and i was talking about AP2`s and blades- he set me straight by explaining the laws of ball flight are the same no matter what club your using if your swing is correct and until you can do that as consistent as a tour pro i shouldn`t consider playing the same clubs as them.  I say if it feels like the right move to play AP1`s go for it until your able to fade or draw the ball like Spieth, Dufner, Johnson etc. who play AP2`s.