by Kyle Rector - AmateurGolf.com Equipment Panelist
Callaway is slowly working their way to the top of wedge market with their successful line of Roger Cleveland designed wedges. This year they have decided to offer something different from the milled Callaway Mack Daddy 3 Milled wedge lines. The Mack Daddy Forged wedges offer a signature shaping and tour performance in a forged design. Callaway says these were crafted by Roger Cleveland in collaboration with top staff players to help players of all skill levels.
At first glance, these wedges looked similar to the MD 3 Milled, but that is where it stopped. The Mack Daddy Forged have a unique squared off toe and leading edge that sits much more square than any of the previous Mack Daddy wedge designs. They also added a new 16 groove combination that definitely added some extra stopping power from both the rough and fairway.
I played 18 holes and spent a few hours in a short game practice area with the 56 and 60 degree wedges. I found that these wedges were exceptional from tight lies from 40 - 60 yards. The unique R grind with a defined crescent shape helped me pinch the ball perfectly from the fairways. The grind was versatile enough to allow the club face to open up and sit flat when needed, but I have to say that the new squared toe took some getting used to when it was opened up to the ball. I prefer the rounded design of the MD 3 Milled when trying to play a flop or opening the blade in the bunker.
There is a definite sound and weight difference with the MD Forged vs the MD 3 Milled wedges. I actually preferred the sound of the MD forged over the MD 3 Milled and my trusty Cleveland wedges. I could really feel the difference in the 1025c steel when I was hitting full wedge shots. They feel solid and the sound is less “clicky” than what you get with some cast wedge designs.
The Mack Daddy Forged comes in a range of 6 lofts from 50° to 60° with only one bounce option per loft. They come in either a Nickel Chrome or Brushed Slate. I love the look of the brushed slate, but I could see that finish was already taking a beating from 18 holes and a practice session.
Roger Cleveland and Callaway have done a great job turning out innovative wedges. The Mack Daddy Forged are another great wedge option for players looking for absolute precision with their wedges. These are less forgiving than other designs but can be deadly in the right player's hands.
