Never go in the water again with Callaway’s new Jaws wedges
Callaway Mack Daddy 5 Jaws review: First impressions
These wedges are instantly identifiable by the row of four ports and medallions on the back of the head. The precise and appealing detailing give them a premium look.
Callaway Mack Daddy 5 Jaws review: The technology
The Callaway Mack Daddy 5 Jaws features new Jaws grooves designed to a 37° wall angle, an extreme difference vs. the 5° used in Mack Daddy 4.
This elevates the groove-edge sharpness to a new level, for maximum grip and spin from all types of lies. Jaws grooves are the most effective from 80 yards and in, producing a player preferred “one hop and stop” trajectory.
The Callaway Mack Daddy 5 Jaws also feature groove-in-groove technology. Milled micro-positive grooves are placed in between the grooves on the face for added surface roughness and grip. Three raised micro-ridges are featured between each groove, this increases friction so more spin can be generated on a variety of shots. The Jaws grooves combined with the micro-grooves provides 84 different contact points to promote more spin.
Each Jaws groove is rendered to the tightest tolerances to promote consistent spin rates from shot to shot. Jaws adds a higher level of consistency that inspires confidence for all scoring zone shots.
The Jaws MD5 is constructed from 8620 mild carbon steel and the centre of gravity of the wedges is precisely placed to create a soft, yet substantial feel.
The wedges lofted from 46° to 52° are slightly smaller compared to wedges lofted 54° and above. This is to create a natural shape-progression from the short-irons to the highest lofted wedges.
A new low-bounce W Grind has been created as direct result of tour player feedback. Tour pros asked for a new grind that delivers increased playability around the green while still allowing them to employ the sole’s entire bounce on full shots. The low-bounce W Grind has sole-taper and heel relief.
The C-grind has been updated to increase versatility around the green by reducing the bounce angle, widening the middle section of the sole and increasing the heel relief.
They are available in two premium finishes: Platinum Chrome and Tour Grey.
Callaway Mack Daddy 5 Jaws review: NCG verdict
Instantly I noticed a really nice soft sound and feel, plenty of spin and excellent distance control.
The Jaw grooves really did deliver that one hop and stop spin on the greens. I also found the spin levels were very consistent when testing across a variety of shots and lies. Not only was I getting good spin on full shots but also on half pitch shots.
I felt the optimised head progression worked really nicely. Sometimes I can find it hard to commit to a full shot with a gap wedge due to the wedge like styling. The progressive shaping helps you transition from iron to wedge easier.
We tested out the standard and C grinds and both performed really well. Personally I prefer the S grind for full pitch shots and standard chips shots around the green so would lean towards this grind option in my 50° and 54°. However with my 58° I manipulate the face a lot so the C-grind allowed me to do this more.
The key with these wedges is to go through the fitting process to find the right loft, bounce and grind options for your swing and home course conditions.
The details
Available: September 20, 2019
RRP: £149 per wedge
More information: Callaway website
If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments below or you can tweet me.
Hannah Holden
Hannah Holden is the Equipment and Instruction Editor here at National Club Golfer. If you’re looking to improve your game, by changing your golf swing or upgrading your golf equipment she’ll have the answers.
As well as writing lots of features and reviews you can find her on our YouTube channel giving you insights on the latest rules, clubs and tips to improve your golf game.
Hannah is a member at Alwoodley golf club. You will either find her here or driving up and down the country playing in a variety of elite amateur events.