Putter vs Driver. The Driver Wins Right?
We all go for the driver at the golf range. We all love the ting or ping of the ball hitting off the smooth surface of the driver face. Most of us then go on to hit a load of practice balls with the same driver. However! Yet how often do we actually do that on the course, i.e. hit 50-100 balls in succession with the driver? Not often.
Top Tip: We recommend not hitting 100 balls with the driver but trying to go in a sequence, driver, hybrid, wedge or driver, 6 iron, wedge....
How many of us go to the driving range to practice putting? Or in fact practice putting after the driving range session? Not many (including myself!).
Top Tip: We recommend practicing your putts at home where possible 1-2 times a week (short putts, medium distance putts and 10ft putts). This will increase probability that you will actually practice. Why not make it fun and keep a leader board on the wall? You can make do with a mug placed on the floor if need be and use your living firm carpet (just watch out for any antiques or things you could break!). You do not necessarily need expensive putting matts or contraptions.
Should we spend big on a putter or a driver? Technically you are more likely to use the putter than the driver per round (18 times two or less each hole for the putter, perhaps 10-15 times per round for driver). It perhaps makes sense to invest more time on putter selection and putter practice than the driver!
Which is more expensive? Cost wise, new drivers are pretty steep these days, circa £500 new. The Taylor Made and Callaway new drivers are standout based on player feedback and indeed excellent to use. Driver technology has changed significantly over the years. It is hard to think that players actually used to use wooden clubs, far less forgiving. I recently upgraded and it had a massive impact on the no. of fairways hit. Putters tend to be cheaper per item/club but there are premium brands such as Scotty Cameron and others which are in the realms of expensive driver territory. It is though worth checking out a range of putters, including the expensive ones, don't be put off by the price tag necessarily, it could be a better choice than a new driver! You will use the putter more than the driver. Some putters also come with weight adjusters and the grip feel is also important. Jumbo grips have become very common.
Recommended Approach: We would recommend getting a decent putter and wait for it, also wedges. Then try to get prior year driver model to keep the cost down.
Hopefully this article made you think a bit more about the putter world. Get golf ready and have a search for a new putter or if not convinced a new driver too!
Have a great round and get some birdies!
GFI GOLF