Mastering Your Golf Putting: Choosing the Right Grip and Putter for Better Accuracy and Control on the Greens

Putting is an essential component of golf, where precision and control are paramount. The way you hold your putter and the type of putter you use can have a significant impact on your performance on the greens. This article explores the different possible putter grips as well as the various types of putters available, to help you find the combination that best suits your game.

Testing Different Grips

‍

‍

Different Putter Grips

1. Traditional Grip (Conventional Grip)

The traditional grip is the most commonly used by golfers. It consists of holding the putter like a normal club, with the dominant hand below the non-dominant hand.

• Advantages : Offers good control and a natural feel.
• Disadvantages : Can accentuate unwanted wrist movements.

2. Cross-Handed Grip (Cross-Handed Grip)

In the cross-handed grip, the non-dominant hand is placed below the dominant hand on the putter.

• Advantages : Helps stabilize the wrists and reduce excessive movements.
• Disadvantages : May feel uncomfortable for players used to the traditional grip.

3. Claw Grip (Claw Grip)

The claw grip involves holding the putter with the dominant hand forming a claw around the handle, while the non-dominant hand maintains a traditional position.

• Advantages : Reduces wrist influence and promotes a pendulum motion.
• Disadvantages : Can be difficult to master for some players.

4. Pencil Grip (Pencil Grip)

The pencil grip, similar to the claw grip, has the dominant hand holding the putter like a pencil, with the non-dominant hand in a traditional position.

• Advantages : Offers excellent putter control.
• Disadvantages : May require an adaptation period.

5. "Prayer" Grip (Prayer Grip)

The prayer grip consists of placing both hands side by side, as in prayer, on the putter handle.

• Advantages : Balances the forces of both hands and stabilizes the putter.
• Disadvantages : May be uncomfortable for players used to traditional grips.

6. Arm-Lock Grip (Arm-Lock Grip)

The arm-lock grip involves resting the putter handle against the player’s forearm for more stability.

• Advantages : Offers great stability and reduces unwanted wrist movements.
• Disadvantages : Requires a specific putter and can be difficult to master.

Different Types of Putter

1. Mallet Putter (Mallet Putter)

The mallet putter is characterized by a wide and often heavy head, offering great stability and easy alignment.

• Advantages : High tolerance and stability. Facilitates alignment.
• Disadvantages : Can be bulkier and less maneuverable.

2. Blade Putter (Blade Putter)

The blade putter is a more traditional design, with a narrower and lighter head.

• Advantages : Offers great feel and precise control.
• Disadvantages : Less forgiving on off-center hits.

3. Alignment Putter (Alignment Putter)

This type of putter includes alignment features such as lines or marks to help players aim more precisely.

• Advantages : Improves alignment and accuracy.
• Disadvantages : May appear visually bulky to some players.

4. Counterbalanced Putter (Counterbalanced Putter)

Counterbalanced putters have extra weight in the handle to balance the putter head.

• Advantages : Improves stability and putt control.
• Disadvantages : May require a period of adaptation.

5. Long Putter (Long Putter)

The long putter is designed to be used with a higher grip on the shaft, often resting against the body for more stability.

• Advantages : Reduces unwanted movements and improves stability.
• Disadvantages : Less maneuverable and may require a specific technique.

6. Bent Putter (Bent Putter)

Bent putters have a curved shaft to offer a better view angle and more natural alignment.

• Advantages : Improves alignment and posture comfort.
• Disadvantages : May be less stable than other types of putters.

How to Choose the Right Grip and Putter

Assess Your Playing Style

• Consider your putting technique : Players with excessive wrist movements may benefit from a stabilizing grip like the claw or arm-lock grip.
• Think about your alignment and comfort : A mallet putter with alignment features can help players who struggle to aim correctly.

Test Different Options

• Try different grips and putters : Spend time testing different grips and types of putters to see what suits you best.
• Consult a professional : A pro can help analyze your putting and recommend specific adjustments.

Adjust Your Equipment

• Make adjustments based on results : If you find that a certain grip or putter improves your putting, consider making this change a permanent part of your equipment.

Conclusion

Putting is a crucial aspect of golf, and finding the right grip and putter can transform your performance on the greens. By exploring the different options available and adapting them to your playing style, you can improve your accuracy, control, and confidence. Don’t hesitate to experiment and consult professionals to find the perfect combination that will lead you to success.

‍