I realize the controversy about forged vs. cast. I have hit forged clubs with graphite that hurt, especially on mishits. I now hit Cobra Amp Cells which are cast but never hurt. The ST-I irons intrigue me because of the narrow sole which I like because I am a picker.
If you’ve been playing a forged head, then I would not consider them soft. I play an older ping head with graphites and it helps a great deal. A softer head would be one of the tour heads that Maltby offers. I would stay with what you have, and perhaps try a soft grip.
I realize the controversy about forged vs. cast. I have hit forged clubs with graphite that hurt, especially on mishits. I now hit Cobra Amp Cells which are cast but never hurt. The ST-I irons intrigue me because of the narrow sole which I like because I am a picker.