TaylorMade rac TP Wedge
What Wedge?
Wedges are specialized clubs for the short game and also used from sand bunkers. We are not talking about those that came in a set but one which you would have to acquire as an addition as a sharper tool and as a replacement. When it comes to wedges, two names springs to mind always - Titleist Vokey spin-milled by Bob Vokey or Cleveland (formerly by Roger Cleveland). The Vokey is for better players while Cleveland is often said to be for everyone their latest being the CG15. (See previous article in the link). Roger Cleveland is no chief designer at Callaway so you can see Callaway wedges getting a say in the market place. Mizuno, Nike and TaylorMade too are making inroads.
The last time I nearly wanted a Vokey but was discouraged as I found from reports and advice that they are so sharp in creating spin that it cuts the ball just after several shots. Not that I needed more wedges (I already have the Cleveland CG10, CG12 and CG14 in 52, 56 and 60 degrees respectively and also an old classic 588 gunmetal 56 degrees) but when I found a TaylorMade rac TP wedge (Black) at a very good price as it was no longer a new model plus very good reviews that came with it, I found it irresistible to check it out.
TheTaylorMade rac Black TP is engineered to deliver the kind of spin, playability and feel you need to attack the flag with confidence. Tour-proven Y-Cutter grooves promote quick-stopping bite and increase spin for maximum control and stopping power. Improved Feel Pockets move impact vibration to strategic areas of the club head for unsurpassed feel and the Tour-proven C-grind sole offers maximum versatility on all shot types to improve your shot making ability. A premium black finish diffuses light and reduces glare. This model actually comes in Satin as well but I had chosen the black as it is no fun when addressing to get a strong reflection of bright sunlight into your eyes as if your future isn't bright enough.
This wedge is built with a so-called Y-cutter grooves which is suppose to offer a sharp, consistent and clean edge that assist to grip the cover of the golf ball effectively and for maximum control. It is claimed that Y-cutter grooves technology consistently delivers 300 more RPM than usual and results in enhanced control and bite for your shots.
The TP badge as you can see at the back of the club head (looks like F1 flags) actually meant Tour Preferred and refers to clubs developed with feedback from Tour pros and is therefore different in characteristics and temperament from other wedges or clubs. It is Tour-configured at the sole where it is ground low on each trailing edge at the toe and heel areas and when viewed from above, appears curved and resembling the letter "C". Such a configuration allows better players to open the club face when around the green to be more versatile playing a variety of shots like high, soft chips and pitches.
You may also hit low punch shots without too much digging due to its leading edges which are radiused. One can hit a wide variety of green side shots if you have the skills even when it comes only in a single bounce angle as a result of its trailing edge. The distinctive dark finish was created by a three-step oxidation process and dramatically reduces glare which I find very useful. Feel and feedback is very good. Control and bite are both clinical and effective.
It is a little identical to the old Cleveland 588 Tour Action made from gun metal which allows it to rust quite easily and naturally. Some people believe that rust around the club face adds even more bite to your shots but this is contentious. It scruffs and scratches quite easily too as it is soft. You too will get the soft feel. Out of sand bunker, it can perform as amazingly well as the Cleveland for attacking the pin and stopping on a dime. All I need is to sharpen my skill a bit and this could be a champion club! This is the club to master for shots less than 100m.
Golf As In Life, Play as It Lies...
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