Test Review: Japanese golf clubs FOURTEEN TK-40 FORGED Wedge
Today, I tested the FOURTEEN TK-40 FORGED Wedge.
The shaft is the N.S.PRO TS-114w. Specs: 57° loft, 34.75 inches in length, C8 swing weight, and total club weight is 463g.
This wedge has a truly distinctive look. It’s rarely seen these days, though it was once more common. I like to call it a “wide-mouth” shape—it reminds me of a frog with its mouth wide open.
The word “FORGED” is stamped on the sole. For a second, I mistook it for a PROCEED club due to the font style.
The design is certainly unique, but the finish quality is impressive.
The cavity is extremely deep—perhaps the deepest I’ve ever seen. Despite the depth, it maintains a clean, uncluttered look.
Topline thickness is standard.
From this angle, the rare shape becomes even more apparent. It’s not just “unusual”—it’s “rare.” But in golf, it’s not about popularity; it’s about performance and feel. And uniqueness can be a breakthrough.
The sole width is standard but its shape is extremely unusual.
This sole design is truly one of a kind. Instead of optimizing turf interaction by shaving the sole, it embraces a rounded shape—more like a wheel or caster rolling under the club. This suggests multiple ground contact patterns.
The leading edge is round, reducing the fear of digging. Great for players who struggle with “chunking.”
The trailing edge is also rounded—offering a sense of versatility.
The hosel is of standard length, but it has a significant goose-neck offset. I was surprised to see “FOURTEEN” stamped here—it didn’t match the brand image I had.
There are no face millings, but the texture is gritty to the touch, with sharp groove edges—no cheapness here.
The strong goose-neck shape gives me hesitation—it’s not my strength.
The grip is soft and comfortable—ideal for wedges—and features a stylish FOURTEEN logo.
At address, it felt quite challenging. I had no image of success. But thanks to encouragement from readers, I now face clubs I once avoided—good or bad, I share it honestly.
Opening the face only added to the discomfort. I felt anxious and unfocused.
Field Test
My first shot was a miss—as expected, I hit behind the ball. However, the rounded sole glided smoothly and still managed ball contact. This made me realize: a well-designed sole can turn a “chunk” into a solid shot.
The feel at impact was surprisingly good—soft yet precise.
Spin performance was also solid. Those who can handle goose-neck clubs will find this wedge highly reliable.
I continued to struggle with chunks and tops due to the strong offset, but the sole offers incredible forgiveness.
Stability is high thanks to the deep cavity back design. It’s not a punishing club.
I struggled to control distance because of poor contact, but the club itself is well-engineered.
Despite its slightly large cavity design, the wedge isn’t fully “automatic.” The uniquely shaped sole works actively to support various lies and swings.
Overall Thoughts
Its defining features are the unique sole and strong goose-neck. If these match your style, this wedge could be a powerful companion.
It feels great at impact and has no trace of cheapness. Goose-neck wedges have long been respected by skilled players.
Though rare today, many golfers still seek this classic shape. It’s crafted with purpose and precision.
I couldn’t fully master it—but I’m grateful for the experience. It reminded me how much more I have to grow as a golfer.
Even though I couldn’t tame this wedge, I look forward to what FOURTEEN brings next.
☆
Ease of setup…☆
Feel of impact…☆☆☆☆
Spin performance…☆☆☆☆
Ease of launch…☆☆☆
Stability…☆☆
Sense of distance…☆☆☆
Controllability…☆☆☆
※ (maximum 100 points)
1 ☆ = 0-20 points
2 ☆ = 21-40 points
3 ☆ = 41-60 points
4 ☆ = 61-90 points
5 ☆ = 91-100 points
