Could Switching Types of Putters Lower Your Score?
Updated 2/20/2024
When it comes to golf, few things are more frustrating than missing a crucial putt. While the type of putter you use may seem inconsequential, it can have a big impact on your game. Golfers have a range of options when it comes to selecting the right putter for their game. With so many different types of putters available, it can be difficult to determine which one is best for you.
We'll explore the various types of putters to help you find the perfect one for your game. From blade putters to counterbalanced putters, we'll cover them all. Let's help you find the best putter for your golf game.
We'll explore the various types of putters to help you find the perfect one for your game. From blade putters to counterbalanced putters, we'll cover them all. Let's help you find the best putter for your golf game.
Types of Putters
When it comes to finding the right putter, there are many different types of putters to choose from. From the classic blade putter to the newer mallet putter, each type offers unique benefits. Blade putters have been around for decades and have been used by some of the greats in the game. These classic putters are known for their accuracy and forgiveness.
Mallet putters are a newer style of putters that are designed with a larger head and heavier weight. This style of putter is often more stable and provides a more consistent roll. Many different types of mallet putters are on the market today.
Heel-shafted putters are designed with the shaft placed closer to the heel of the club. This type of putter is designed for players with more of an arced putting stroke.
Face balanced putters are designed with a face that is balanced evenly. This type of putter is often center shafted. They are designed to have less twisting or turning when it hits the ball and is great for straight-line putts.
With so many types of putters available, it's important to consider the specifics of each before making a decision.
Mallet putters are a newer style of putters that are designed with a larger head and heavier weight. This style of putter is often more stable and provides a more consistent roll. Many different types of mallet putters are on the market today.
Heel-shafted putters are designed with the shaft placed closer to the heel of the club. This type of putter is designed for players with more of an arced putting stroke.
Face balanced putters are designed with a face that is balanced evenly. This type of putter is often center shafted. They are designed to have less twisting or turning when it hits the ball and is great for straight-line putts.
With so many types of putters available, it's important to consider the specifics of each before making a decision.
Blade Putters
Blade putters have a classic look and feel that make them one of the most popular types of putters. They are typically a bit smaller and lighter than mallet putters. As a result, they can be easier to use with a delicate touch on fast greens. Blade putters may employ various types of metals, including stainless steel, carbon steel, and titanium. In some cases they may also use a light-weight non-metal to have weight redistributed for better stability.
The narrow head design of blade putters allows for precise alignment when addressing the ball. Additionally, the weight and balance can be adjusted to the golfer’s preference, allowing for a custom fit. This makes blade putters a great choice for golfers who want to dial in their putting accuracy. Scotty Cameron and Ping are popular blade putters.
The classic shape and feel of blade putters make them popular among traditionalists. The narrow head design and adjustable weight and balance allow for a tailored fit that helps golfers stay on target. Alignment aids are traditionally found on top of these putters. Blade putters are a great choice for golfers looking for precision and control.
The narrow head design of blade putters allows for precise alignment when addressing the ball. Additionally, the weight and balance can be adjusted to the golfer’s preference, allowing for a custom fit. This makes blade putters a great choice for golfers who want to dial in their putting accuracy. Scotty Cameron and Ping are popular blade putters.
The classic shape and feel of blade putters make them popular among traditionalists. The narrow head design and adjustable weight and balance allow for a tailored fit that helps golfers stay on target. Alignment aids are traditionally found on top of these putters. Blade putters are a great choice for golfers looking for precision and control.
Mallet Putters
Mallet putters are quickly becoming the go-to choice for many golfers because of their excellent forgiveness and stability. Mallet putters feature a larger head size than traditional putters. As a result, they often have a greater MOI (moment of inertia), which helps to reduce mis-hits. The higher MOI keeps the face square on the follow-through.
These putters are usually made of metal and are designed with a cavity back and heavier weight to promote stability. Many mallet putters also have multiple alignment aids, which can help line up putts more accurately. There are a variety of types of mallet putters, making them suitable for a wide range of golfers. The Taylormade Spider is gaining popularity as a forgiving putter that offers superior stability and accuracy.
These putters are usually made of metal and are designed with a cavity back and heavier weight to promote stability. Many mallet putters also have multiple alignment aids, which can help line up putts more accurately. There are a variety of types of mallet putters, making them suitable for a wide range of golfers. The Taylormade Spider is gaining popularity as a forgiving putter that offers superior stability and accuracy.
Putter Design
Manufacturers are constantly evolving the design of putters. Some of these designs are a natural evolution of good designs and some are better suited to be a weapon. Some of the best putters have a natural resting position, that help keep the putter directly below the eyes. These types of putters promote a consistent stroke and feel good in the hands.
Golfers looking to improve their putting game have a variety of types of putters to choose from. Blade putters are the most traditional and feature a flat face that provides a classic feel. Mallet putters are more modern and typically feature a wider head for increased stability.
Heel-shafted putters have the shaft inserted into the heel of the putter and create an offset look. Perimeter-weighted putters feature a heavy weight on the perimeter of the putter head, This results in a higher moment of inertia (MOI).
Center-shafted putters have the shaft inserted into the center of the putter head, creating a face balanced look. Finally, toe-weighted putters feature a heavier weight on the toe of the putter head, creating a lower MOI. With manufacturers making so many types of putters available, golfers can find the one that best suits their playing style.
Golfers looking to improve their putting game have a variety of types of putters to choose from. Blade putters are the most traditional and feature a flat face that provides a classic feel. Mallet putters are more modern and typically feature a wider head for increased stability.
Heel-shafted putters have the shaft inserted into the heel of the putter and create an offset look. Perimeter-weighted putters feature a heavy weight on the perimeter of the putter head, This results in a higher moment of inertia (MOI).
Center-shafted putters have the shaft inserted into the center of the putter head, creating a face balanced look. Finally, toe-weighted putters feature a heavier weight on the toe of the putter head, creating a lower MOI. With manufacturers making so many types of putters available, golfers can find the one that best suits their playing style.
Putter Head Design
A putter head design can make or break a golfer's game. With several types of putter head designs available, it is important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each. This knowledge will help you make the best choice for your specific needs. The best putters fit to your stroke will promote confidence, the wrong one will result in an inconsistent result.
Just because everyone in your group has a Scotty Cameron, doesn't mean that is the right putter for you. You may putt better with a mallet putter with bold alignment marks over-the-top of the putter. Read on to learn whether a face balanced or heel-shafted putter is right for you.
Just because everyone in your group has a Scotty Cameron, doesn't mean that is the right putter for you. You may putt better with a mallet putter with bold alignment marks over-the-top of the putter. Read on to learn whether a face balanced or heel-shafted putter is right for you.
Insert Putters Vs. Milled Putters
When choosing a putter, there are two other head designs to consider: insert and milled putters. Insert putters are made of a softer material that provides a softer feel when hitting the ball. This type of putter is typically cheaper than milled putters, making them a great option for beginner golfers. Insert putters are also more forgiving for slightly off-center hits compared to milled putters.
Milled putters are made of hard materials that provide a firm feel and more accuracy when hitting the ball. They also allow for greater control of the ball’s spin and trajectory. Milled putters have a more consistent and precise hit compared to insert putters. This makes them the ideal choice for more experienced golfers looking for maximum accuracy and control.
No matter which type of putter you choose, with proper practice and technique, you can improve your game and lower your score.
Milled putters are made of hard materials that provide a firm feel and more accuracy when hitting the ball. They also allow for greater control of the ball’s spin and trajectory. Milled putters have a more consistent and precise hit compared to insert putters. This makes them the ideal choice for more experienced golfers looking for maximum accuracy and control.
No matter which type of putter you choose, with proper practice and technique, you can improve your game and lower your score.
Shaft and Hosel
When shopping for a putter, there are a few features to consider. The shaft and hosel are two important components that can affect the performance of a putter. The shaft is the longest part of the club, connecting the head to the grip. It is typically made of steel or graphite and can be either straight or bent. The hosel connects the head to the shaft and is usually made of metal. A model that bends backwards may be good for your stroke, or you may need one without the bend.
The shaft and hosel provide stability to the putter, helping it to maintain its shape and improve consistency in the putting stroke. Lately, some manufacturers are changing the weight of the shaft to change the weight of the putter head. They are experimenting to find ways to make the head more stable. Therefore, it is important to consider the shaft and hosel of a putter when selecting the right one for you.
The shaft and hosel provide stability to the putter, helping it to maintain its shape and improve consistency in the putting stroke. Lately, some manufacturers are changing the weight of the shaft to change the weight of the putter head. They are experimenting to find ways to make the head more stable. Therefore, it is important to consider the shaft and hosel of a putter when selecting the right one for you.
Hosel Design
Manufacturers are pushing hosel designs to the maximum limit. The design of the hosel helps to keep the clubface square to the intended target line, creating more accurate putts. In addition, the right hosel design can help eliminate any unwanted movement, improving accuracy and control.
There are several different types of hosel designs on many differnt types of putters. One is the flow neck. This type of hosel has a smooth curve to it and a very refined look. They are available on both mallet and blade putters. Another type is the plumber's neck putter. These have more of a straight neck with a 90-degree turn into the shaft. Think of the original Ping Answer when you hear plumber's neck putters.
There are several different types of hosel designs on many differnt types of putters. One is the flow neck. This type of hosel has a smooth curve to it and a very refined look. They are available on both mallet and blade putters. Another type is the plumber's neck putter. These have more of a straight neck with a 90-degree turn into the shaft. Think of the original Ping Answer when you hear plumber's neck putters.
Putter Length
Putters come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and lengths. The length of a putter can have a significant effect on the accuracy and maneuverability of a golfer’s shot. Generally, you want a putter length that allows you to kee your eyes directly over the ball. Depending on the type of putter, the length can range from 33 inches to nearly 50 inches. The longer putters may be used in an arm lock method.
When selecting a putter, it’s important to consider the length and how it will affect the golfer’s posture and accuracy. Longer putters used in an armlock style may need a bit more loft to allow the ball to get rolling quickly. Shorter putters, on the other hand, may have less loft as they would not require as much forward press as an armlock putter.
Golfers need to find the right length for their putter as it can have a major impact on their performance on the course. Finding the right length of putter for each golfer can help them improve their accuracy and maneuverability, allowing them to get the most out of their game. Get fit for your putter by a PGA professional who can evaluate your stroke for the best results.
When selecting a putter, it’s important to consider the length and how it will affect the golfer’s posture and accuracy. Longer putters used in an armlock style may need a bit more loft to allow the ball to get rolling quickly. Shorter putters, on the other hand, may have less loft as they would not require as much forward press as an armlock putter.
Golfers need to find the right length for their putter as it can have a major impact on their performance on the course. Finding the right length of putter for each golfer can help them improve their accuracy and maneuverability, allowing them to get the most out of their game. Get fit for your putter by a PGA professional who can evaluate your stroke for the best results.
Putter Lie Angle
The putter lie angle is the angle between the shaft of the putter and the sole of the putter. Lie angle has a huge impact on the accuracy and direction of the ball's roll. Generally speaking, putter lie angles can range from about 62 to 70 degrees. If your putter does not lie flat, it may result in inconsistent starting lines on your putts.
If the lie angle is too upright, it can cause the ball to veer off to the right. On the other hand, if the lie angle is too flat, the ball will veer off to the left. It is important to find the lie angle that works best for your swing, as it can make a big difference in your putting accuracy.
Lie angle and putter length work in tandem. A longer shaft may require a flatter angle to get the club flat on the ground. Many golfers take the time to have their putters custom-fitted to their body and swing style to find the best putter lie angle for them. This can be done by a professional golf club fitter, or you can do it yourself by experimenting with different putter lie angles. No matter what method you choose, finding the right putter lie angle is an important step in improving your game.
If the lie angle is too upright, it can cause the ball to veer off to the right. On the other hand, if the lie angle is too flat, the ball will veer off to the left. It is important to find the lie angle that works best for your swing, as it can make a big difference in your putting accuracy.
Lie angle and putter length work in tandem. A longer shaft may require a flatter angle to get the club flat on the ground. Many golfers take the time to have their putters custom-fitted to their body and swing style to find the best putter lie angle for them. This can be done by a professional golf club fitter, or you can do it yourself by experimenting with different putter lie angles. No matter what method you choose, finding the right putter lie angle is an important step in improving your game.
Putter Loft
Putter loft refers to the amount of slope on the face of the putter. Putters need a little loft to produce the best roll. Putter loft generally ranges from 2 to four degrees. If you have more forward press in your putting setup, you may benefit from more loft on your putter.
Fitting a Putter to My Putting Stroke
When shopping for a putter, it is important to ensure that the putter fits your stroke, height, and posture. Consider the length, lie angle and weight of the putter to make sure it is comfortable. Make sure to test the putter on the practice green to get a feel for it and to make sure the sound it makes is satisfying. Additionally, take into account the feel and sound of the putter as well as whether it is a good match for your putting stroke.
When assessing the putter, look at the balance, alignment features, and design. Also, consider the feedback the putter provides when you hit it. Finally, evaluate the grip size and texture to ensure it is comfortable. Taking into account all of these factors will help you find the perfect putter for your game. Practice several test putts with each and pay attention to the starting line. You want the putter that does the best job getting the ball started on your intended line.
When assessing the putter, look at the balance, alignment features, and design. Also, consider the feedback the putter provides when you hit it. Finally, evaluate the grip size and texture to ensure it is comfortable. Taking into account all of these factors will help you find the perfect putter for your game. Practice several test putts with each and pay attention to the starting line. You want the putter that does the best job getting the ball started on your intended line.
Face-balanced Vs. Toe-weighted Putters
When it comes to choosing a putter, golfers have two main options: face-balanced putters and toe-weighted putters. Face-balanced putters are designed so that the face of the putter is perpendicular to the ground when the shaft is held vertically. This helps golfers maintain better alignment on their putts. Toe-weighted putters, on the other hand, have more weight concentrated on the heel and toe of the putter head. Toe weighting encourages the putter to rotate during the stroke and helps golfers add a slight curve to their putts.
Face-balanced putters are best for straight-back-straight-through putting strokes, while toe-weighted putters are best for golfers who prefer to use an arc in their strokes. Shaft and hosel design will impact the amount of face hang on toe-weighted putters. The main difference in performance is the amount of rotation of the putter head. A face-balanced putter rotates less during the stroke than a toe-balanced putter.
No matter which type of putter you choose, it's important to take the time to choose the right one for your game. The right putter can make a big difference in your putting performance and help you
Face-balanced putters are best for straight-back-straight-through putting strokes, while toe-weighted putters are best for golfers who prefer to use an arc in their strokes. Shaft and hosel design will impact the amount of face hang on toe-weighted putters. The main difference in performance is the amount of rotation of the putter head. A face-balanced putter rotates less during the stroke than a toe-balanced putter.
No matter which type of putter you choose, it's important to take the time to choose the right one for your game. The right putter can make a big difference in your putting performance and help you
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know If My Putter is Properly Fitted for My Game?
When it comes to choosing the right putter for your golf game, there are several factors to consider. The length of the putter should be suitable for your height and arm length, as an improper length can affect your stroke. The weight of the putter is also important and should feel comfortable in your hands. Additionally, the putter face should be easy to square and align to the target during a stroke.
The lie angle of the putter should also be checked to make sure it is suitable for your posture and stroke. The grip size is also important, as it should be comfortable and fit your hands. Finally, it is best to take the putter out to the practice green and hit some putts to make sure it suits your stroke. By considering all of these factors, you can ensure you are selecting the right putter for your game.
What is the most forgiving type of putter?
Mallet putters are generally the most forgiving due to their larger heads and higher moment of inertia. That said, if you have the wrong fit, any type of putter can be problematic. Getting fit will ensure you are getting one of the best putters for you.
Should I use a blade or mallet putter?
It depends on your personal preferences and putting style. Work with a club fitter to evaluate your stroke and get the right type and fit of putter for your stroke. Once you know your fit, try out both types of putters to see which one feels best for you.
Do I need a custom putter fitting?
A custom putter fitting can help you find the right length, lie angle, and grip for your stroke, leading to more consistent putts. Having the right equipment can vastly improve your putting.
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