Abstract: A gripping wedge adapted to be received within a housing of a pipe joint restraint and contacted by a torque screw to set the gripping wedge against a pipe restrained by the pipe joint restraint. The gripping wedge defines first, second, and third planes, each of which is perpendicular to others, and includes a projection, a groove, and a ledge. The projection is curved in the first and third planes and is adapted to dig into and grip the pipe. The groove is curved in the first and second planes and is adapted to receive material of the pipe displaced by the projection. The groove may also be curved in the third plane. The ledge is contacted by the torque screw, which imparts a downward force on the gripping wedge. The ledge may be inclined to facilitate improved application of the downward force on the gripping wedge.