With each year, golf is becoming more popular, and while some see it as a hobby, others are trying to push their way through and turn professional. If there is a sport that is not as much about physical stamina and strength but rather about accuracy and the mental game, it has to be golf.
You are probably aware of the difference that adequate equipment can make in your game. Among the most debated questions is which one is better – a blade or a mallet putter?
It depends on your experience, as well as the style of your game. In this article, we will do our best to explain the difference between these two and thus help you decide whether you are a blade or a mallet player. Let’s get right to it!
Features of a Mallet Putter
The mallet putter is highlighted by more complex designs, and it usually features a large clubhead. Yes, the clubface itself is similar to the blade putter, but there are several variations when it comes to the clubhead. It can come in square, half-circle, and a couple of other options.
You are probably wondering, doesn’t this result in a lot of weight being set at the clubface? Absolutely, but due to the larger heads, it is much easier to shift it and thus achieve a stable stroke. This is the main difference when it comes to mallets and blades.
The second design feature that is not the same as with blade putters is the sweet spot. Once again, a mallet putter is highlighted by a larger sweet spot that should eliminate any chance of twisting and pushing, which is quite common for starters, especially if they’re using poorly made putters.
The main advantage of this is that, even if you don’t putt the ball as well as you want to, it is more likely to go where you initially wanted it to due to weight distribution and a larger sweet spot.
Another huge benefit of using a mallet putter is that it will help you with alignment. Of course, you are the one who will need to set your body, but the thicker and more complex design that the mallet is rocking should help you find your style. Last but not least is the fact that because of the heavier weight, your stroke will generate more power.
The first result of this is that you will be able to strike the ball to the hole without much effort. Secondly, if there is a lot of tall grass in the direction you are aiming, it is nothing to worry about as the bigger clubhead will give the ball more force to push through.
Features of a Blade Putter
The blade putter is considered to be traditional due to its lighter and more simple structure. Highlighted by a straight body with a blade-like clubhead, it is an option most enjoyed by golf purists. While the light and sleek design of this putter may trick you into thinking you can’t generate any force, you would be surprised with the results as long as you are experienced with this type of putter.
There is a myriad of different variations when it comes to blade putters, given the fact that this is the most popular weapon when it comes to PGA Tour players. The differences are mostly related to loft, weight, and whether the face is insert or no-insert. Opposite to the mallet putter, the sweet spot here is somewhat smaller and closer to the heel, as most of the weight is set at the toe.
It is a fact that the mallet putter allows for a better weight distribution, which can give you an advantage in stability and accuracy if you are a beginner. However, if you are more experienced with arc strokes, it is the blade putter that is more suited for your style of play.
Are You a Mallet or a Blade Putter Player?
To determine which one is better for your game, the first thing that you need to consider is your stroke. If you are a player with a square-to-square stroke, then you are much better off with a mallet because it is a putter that will allow you to go follow through with your putt. As we have mentioned above, the mallet is highlighted by a larger clubhead and sweet spot, which results in a better face-balance.
On the other hand, if your stroke is open (arc), then you will have a much better chance for success using the blade putter. This type of stroke is not easy to perform as it is, which is the main reason why you will want a putter that will help you and not work against you.
When you decide on what putter is the best by focusing on the type of stroke you are going with, the next step should be to go to a golf course and try a couple of different putters. You don’t want to make a mistake and buy just one, only to find that it is not what you were hoping for. The main idea is to “feel” what kind of contact the putter makes with the ball.
By taking off your gloves, you will remove a barrier that is preventing you from getting a better idea of the “feel”. However, keep in mind that it will be much easier to do this with a blade putter than a mallet putter, as it usually features a soft-insert head.
Summary – Blade Vs Mallet Putters: What is the Difference?
While we can’t come out with a final verdict on which one is better for your specific style of play, we did our best to provide relevant information when it comes to the characteristics that mallet and blade putters are highlighted by.
It is up to you to consider these, along with your experience and stroke style, to make the best decision for your game!
Ultimately you’ll want to find the putter that is the easiest for you to use. It will have a tremendous effect on your game if you can find the right one.
