Switching out discs in the bag isn’t all that tough …
You’re hardly scratching off lottery tickets – you know when it’s time. For mids, fairways and distance drivers, it’s easy to tell when a change is needed – they get squirrely on you. Or, the new, more flippy flight crosses over too much with another mold with which you’re far more comfy. It’s more of the same with off-the-tee putters, too – this ain’t string theory.
But what about your putting putters?
THIS is when things get a bit trickier …
Here’s how to know when:
You’re missing putts (and in the same way)
I miss putts. You miss putts. We all miss putts.
But just because you’re missing them doesn’t mean the putter’s the problem …
But it might.
To know if the putter IS to blame, however, relative to the way you normally convert C1X and circle-two bids, pay attention to the way you’re missing. For example, I putt with the KC Pro Aviar. It’s an overstable putter; I lean on that beef for longer, inside-the-circle and shorter, outside-the-circle bids. When my putter’s no longer finishing like it should, it’s gonzo.
Round after round, I’ll miss just right …
It’s not me; it’s the putter.
Your putting grip feels off
This will differ from golfer to golfer …
For me, I like a semi-worn putter – nothing too extreme.
When I purchase a new KC Pro Aviar, it’s not headed straight to the course – it first takes a pit-stop at the practice basket. From there, I give it a few weeks of putting. I’m looking to work-in the disc and eliminate the slick, overly smooth feeling the manufacturer gives it.
But too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. Personally, hundreds of nicks, dings and scratches can make it hard to find a comfortable, confident grip – the inverse might be true for you. About the time I struggle with grip, however, I notice the putter’s flight change, as well. This usually occurs around 18 months of use, so nothing drastic – plenty of bang for the buck.
The quality of your grip matters.
Your confidence sucks
I’ve always wanted to taco a disc …
Paul McBeth’s never cooler than when he folds one up – click here.
Of course, tossing your Special Blend Luna in the trash after a bad round won’t magically fix your short game. But it might help with the mental side of things – fresh starts and clean slates can be comforting. To do this is to feel as if you’re taking back control of the situation …
Even though you never really relinquished it.
This is a worst-case solution.
Chances are the putter you’re working with is just fine …
More practice (eye-roll) is the secret elixir.
Still, don’t be afraid to make a change.
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Editor’s Suggestions:
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- Gripe No. 12: Creative tap-ins don’t belong on the Pro Tour
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