Proto-Concept
Forged
![Hot List Silver 2022](/content/dam/images/golfdigest/fullset/2021/HotListSilver_2022.png)
Our Review:
WHAT IT DOES: Produced in cooperation with the famed Endo forging house in Japan, these “small batch” wedges emphasize the importance of the right sole grind—by simplifying it. All swing types can find a home in its three sole grinds, but even then, only the 56-, 58- and 60-degree lofts offer more than the standard grind as an option. There’s a wide-sole version for shallower swings and a “cut down” grind for improved performance on open-face shots.
WHY WE LIKE IT: Here’s to unfettered fresh thinking. Unlike many competitors, these grooves aren’t milled but rather are part of a more elaborate forging process designed to be more precise than milling. Meanwhile, the dot pattern between the grooves is designed to create consistent friction for reliable spin.
![PROTO CONCEPT FORGED_WEDGES_HERO.jpg](http://golfdigest.sports.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/golfdigest/fullset/hotlist-2022/wedges/PROTO%20CONCEPT%20FORGED_WEDGES_HERO.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.966.966.suffix/1638479146560.jpeg)
Ratings
* Percentage of total score
Player Comments
Low-Handicapper
“The turf interaction is so good. It levels out instead of digging or bouncing. It performs well in every scenario.”
Mid-Handicapper
"Never heard of it, but it cuts through the turf like an elite wedge with the forgiveness and consistency of a game-improvement iron."
High-Handicapper
"Good penetrating trajectory, easy to flight low. Great spin, piercing trajectory. Really consistent in all aspects."
Club Specs
Lofts
10 options (48-60 degrees); 3 sole grinds; 1 finish
![/content/dam/images/golfdigest/fullset/hotlist-2022/wedges/PROTO CONCEPT FORGED_WEDGES_TOE.jpg](http://golfdigest.sports.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/golfdigest/fullset/hotlist-2022/wedges/PROTO%20CONCEPT%20FORGED_WEDGES_TOE.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.966.966.suffix/1638479146693.jpeg)
Surviving the Hot List Presented by Rapsodo
For the first time in the 19-year history of the Hot List, we invited a documentary-film crew to the 2022 testing summit to document the process, the people and the drama behind the most coveted assignment in golf.