What you need to know: New tour-inspired face milling and a five-percent higher center of gravity — thanks to new milling — are the hallmarks of the soft carbon steel Bettinardi HLX 5.0 wedges, which are available in two finishes and with two well-considered grind options.

2023 Bettinardi HLX 5.0 Forged wedges: Key technology

Bettinardi relies on a new High Helix Cut machining process for the softest forged wedge the company has created. The machine cuts the metal at such a rate that generates a more pronounced groove depth, creating maximum spin on the golf ball, which pushes USGA groove limits. “According to the nation’s leading club fitter, Bettinardi HLX wedges consistently perform with 10% more spin and 12% lower launch than the top wedge manufacturers in golf,” the company says. Additionally, Bettinardi re-engineered ladder milling on the back flange to raise the center of gravity by five percent.

What Bettinardi says

“By utilizing this finer milling technique, we were able to keep more weight on the flange, which raises the center of gravity and helps golfers achieve a lower-flighted shot,” said Sam Bettinardi, President of Bettinardi Golf. “Since 1998, Bettinardi Golf has been known for making the finest putters in the world, and we are so proud to continue to evolve our wedges and push the envelope on design, craftsmanship, and quality.”

“Forging our HLX 5.0 Wedges from soft carbon steel, as opposed to casting, gives consumers and Tour players the premium feel that they have come to expect from the Bettinardi name,” says Robert Bettinardi, CEO/Founder of Bettinardi Golf. “Since the inception of our forged wedge line in 2014, each generation of wedges has continued to evolve with additional finishes, lofts, grinds, and technology, which has made Bettinardi a proven player in the wedge category.”

Specs, availability

$220 MSRP

At retail: November 16

Finishes: Chrome, Graphite PVD

The C-Grind sole is a traditional wedge sole, intended for players who love making simple square-faced shots.

The RJ-Grind is a more versatile, high-bounce wedge sole with more heel, toe, and trailing edge relief, making it the most playable wedge in the lineup.

Shafts: KBS High Rev, True Temper S200 & S400, or the Nippon Pro Modus 115. All wedges will be paired with a custom

Grips: Bettinardi Crosstour Soft Gray and Black Lamkin grip

More shots of the wedges in the video from Bettinardi, below. 

 

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