As I mentioned last week I have all of Yururi’s current model lineup here for some photo taking and side by side comparisons. I was outside today snapping shots of all the wedges for the wedge model comparo and I could not help but stop when I got to the Gekku Raw wedge (or Raw Gekku as we call it too). I sat there for a while and just admired its head shape, finish and grind. The Gekku Raw is the oldest wedge model in the current Yururi lineup but as a classic it still exudes superb looks, quality and performance. I proceeded to snap away and take pictures of the Gekku Raw from every angle and decided to make a post about it as a reminder of its excellence.
The Gekku Raw is premium forged in Japan from S25C steel. What makes it stand out from many mass produced wedges these days is it’s grainy black appearance and the fact that every Gekku head is grinded and finished individually by hand. One would think a raw unplated wedge that is not buffed smooth would look like a rough stone, but on the contrary the Gekku has always looked like a work of art. By looking at the wedge you can tell the grinder’s skill. Yururi has told me as well sometimes they can tell which of their grinders did which head due to signature style of grinding for each grinder meaning each Gekku Raw wedge is truly unique in small ways.
While the Gekku is an older model, it is still one of Yururi’s most popular. Especially for those who want non conforming square grooves from a wedge with a smaller profile. The grooves are very sharp and as I wiped the face of one of the Gekku wedges to take a photo, the sharp edges of the grooves took the fibers right off the cloth. Raw unfinished faces are also know to bite more thanks to the friction created when the raw face impacts the ball. Because of these features, the Gekku Raw is a true spin machine.
A great feeling wedge is not only about what type of steel it uses and how it was produced ie cast of forged. The design of the head plays a huge part into how a wedge ends up feeling. The grind of a wedge can dictate what kind of impact you get though various conditions. Yururi attention to the Gekku’s grinding is very obvious and can be seen all around the head. Leading edge and trailing edge relief allow for easy entry and exit from the turf, heel relief allows a player to open up the wedge and still keep the face aimed at the target and careful grinding of the neck make it flow seamlessly into the wedges top line. Many of these aspects allow a player to create wonderful feel and spin and reap the benefits of this soft forged head.
The Yururi Gekku Raw is also very popular for its loft versatility. Golfers can choose from 41* 45* 49* 53* 57* and 61* heads and for wedge lovers that can be quite attractive. It’s also available in 49* 53* 57* and 61* as LEFT Handed models which is quite rare for specialized Japanese brands. What may be the best of all is that the Gekku Raw Wedge is available as heads only at a very reasonable price, especially considering its quaility. Customers can have their own shafts installed or have TSG install any shaft and grip available in Japan to customer specs. Its been a while since I’ve had Yururi’s Gekku raw in my hands and seeing them again has brought back a feeling of nostalgia. I think its time for a revival and I can always make a place in the bag for a 53 57 61* combo!
Yeah they are beautiful , i still have a 45 and 57. i am still keeping em although they never get used. maybe i should take them out sometimes.
These are work’s of art. The non conforming version spin’s like heck. The RAW finish feels so good at impact.