Callaway Jaws MD5 Wedge Review

We test out the performance on offer from the Callaway Jaws MD5 wedge

The Callaway Jaws MD5 wedge in chrome
(Image credit: Future)
Golf Monthly Verdict

With such a wide variety of lofts (they go all the way up to 64°) and five grind options to choose from, a fitting is a must. Go through that process and you’ll leave happy in the knowledge you are equipped with the best possible tools to hit those scoring shots into and around the greens.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Soft feel

  • +

    High level of spin

  • +

    Wide variety of loft and sole grind options

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Some may prefer a straighter, longer leading edge

Why you can trust Golf Monthly Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Callaway Jaws MD5 Wedge Review

In as a replacement to the popular Callaway Mack Daddy 4 wedge, the MD5 has made an immediate impression and joins the big-name brand's highly impressive wedge line-up. 

With that in mind, we were keen to put it through its paces and find out whether it ranks as one of the best golf wedges on the market. In terms of technology, the Jaws grooves are designed with a 37° wall angle to make them sharper for maximum grip and spin from all types of lie. Three raised micro-ridges between the grooves increase the number of contact points with the ball to 84 for added spin. A new low-bounce W-Grind, which features increased sole taper and heel relief in the higher lofts, brings the total number of grinds available up to five.

callaway-md5-wedge-address-web

The view looking down on the Callaway MD5 wedge

In terms of looks, it is traditional in shape, although some may prefer less taper in the hosel area. The face technology is barely visible to minimise distraction. Both finishes bolster the premium appeal.

As for the versatility on offer, the C-Grind will provide most golfers with enough heel and toe relief to manipulate the face and produce different shots, but there are different options depending on your method and stock shot choice.

I was really impressed through testing and think golfers will struggle to find a better all-around wedge offering than the new Jaws MD5. It has no obvious weakness but it really excels at creating spin on longer pitch shots and full shots where the extra speed generates backspin in excess of 11,000rpm in some cases. It’s at the level where you might want to think about landing the ball a yard or two further than normal on full shots to allow for the ball to zip back, especially in softer conditions.

Joel Tadman testing the Callaway Jaws MD5 wedge on the course

In addition, these wedges feel buttery soft on all lengths of shot. This is partly down to the mild carbon steel used to create the heads, the muscleback design and the soft and tacky Lamkin UTX grip.

The satin chrome and tour grey finishes oozes class and the various soles make light work of the turf through the hitting area, gathering the ball from the worst of lies with a minimum of fuss.

The high-bounce W-Grind is ideal for bunkers, making it also one of the best sand wedges, while the new low bounce version works well for those with a shallower swing or off firmer turf you'd find on a links course.

FAQs

Are Callaway Jaws MD5 wedges forged?

To the best of our knowledge, no they are not. However, that doesn't hinder performance and it easily ranks as one of the best wedges for chipping on the market.

When did the Callaway Jaws MD5 come out?

Joel Tadman
Technical Editor

Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 12 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all product content here at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader find exactly what they are looking for. So whether it's the latest driver, irons, putter or laser rangefinder, Joel has his finger on the pulse keeping up to date with the latest releases in golf. He is also responsible for all content on irons and golf tech, including distance measuring devices and launch monitors.

One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 3.2.

Joel's current What's In The Bag? 

Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9° 

Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15° 

Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18° 

Irons: Ping i230 4-UW

Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM8, 54°. Titleist Vokey SM9 60° lob wedge, K Grind

Putter: Evnroll ER2V 

Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x