Golfers know that putting is one of the most important aspects of the game, and choosing the right putter can make all the difference. Among the many factors to consider when selecting a putter is the type of face insert. There are two primary options: milled putters and insert putters. In this article, we will compare the two and help you understand the differences and similarities between them.
Milled Putters
Milled putters are precisely crafted from a solid block of metal, usually stainless steel or carbon steel. They are made using a milling machine that removes excess metal, leaving a flat face with grooves. These grooves are designed to create a consistent roll when the ball is struck. Milled putters are popular among professionals and amateurs alike for their feel and consistency.
Advantages of Milled Putters:
- Consistency: Milled putters offer a consistent feel and roll, making it easier to control the distance and direction of the ball.
- Customization: The milling process allows for intricate designs and customizations to the putter’s shape, weight, and feel.
- Durability: Milled putters are made from high-quality materials, which make them durable and long-lasting.
- Sound and Feel: Milled putters produce a unique sound and feel, which some golfers prefer over insert putters.
Disadvantages of Milled Putters:
- Expensive: Milled putters can be expensive due to the precision craftsmanship and high-quality materials used in their construction.
- Feedback: Some golfers may find the feedback from a milled putter to be too harsh, making it harder to detect slight mis-hits.
Insert Putters
Insert putters are made with a face insert, usually made of soft polymer, that is placed between the putter’s face and the clubhead. The insert is designed to provide a softer feel and reduce vibration, which can improve accuracy and distance control. Insert putters are a popular choice among golfers who prefer a softer feel and less feedback.
Advantages of Insert Putters:
- Soft Feel: The face insert on insert putters provides a soft feel that many golfers prefer.
- Forgiveness: The insert reduces vibration and can help minimize the impact of mis-hits.
- Affordable: Insert putters are typically less expensive than milled putters, making them a more budget-friendly option.
- Consistency: Some golfers find that the consistent roll provided by insert putters makes it easier to putt consistently.
Disadvantages of Insert Putters:
- Less Customizable: The face insert on insert putters limits the degree to which the putter can be customized.
- Less Durable: The face insert may wear out over time, reducing the putter’s lifespan.
- Sound and Feel: Some golfers may not like the sound and feel of an insert putter, as it may lack the distinct sound of a milled putter.
Milled Putters vs. Insert Putters: Which is Better for Your Putting Style?
Choosing the right putter for your game depends on your putting style and preferences. Both milled putters and insert putters have their advantages and disadvantages, and it’s essential to understand how each type of putter can benefit your game.
Milled Putters for Traditionalists:
If you’re a traditionalist who values precision and craftsmanship, a milled putter may be the best choice for you. Milled putters offer a consistent roll, making it easier to control the distance and direction of the ball. They also allow for customizations, such as weight and shape adjustments, to suit your preferences. Milled putters are also known for their durability, which makes them a worthwhile investment for serious golfers.
Insert Putters for Those Who Prefer Soft Feel:
If you prefer a softer feel and less feedback from your putter, an insert putter may be the best choice for you. The face insert on an insert putter provides a soft feel, reducing vibration and minimizing the impact of mis-hits. They are also less expensive than milled putters, making them an accessible option for budget-conscious golfers. Additionally, some golfers find the consistent roll provided by insert putters makes it easier to putt consistently.
Milled Putters vs. Insert Putters: Performance Comparison:
When it comes to performance, both milled putters and insert putters have their advantages and disadvantages. Milled putters provide a consistent roll and precision, making them ideal for golfers who prioritize accuracy. They also offer a more distinctive sound and feel, which can help some golfers develop confidence on the green.
Insert putters, on the other hand, provide a softer feel and are more forgiving of mis-hits. They are also lighter and easier to control, making them a great choice for golfers who prefer a more fluid putting stroke.
Performance
| Brand | Model | Head Material | Loft | Lie Angle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scotty Cameron | Select Newport 2 | 303 Stainless Steel | 3.5° | 71° |
| Bettinardi | Studio Stock 7 | 303 Stainless Steel | 2.5° | 70° |
| TaylorMade | TP Juno | 303 Stainless Steel | 3.5° | 70° |
| Ping | Vault 2.0 Dale Anser | 303 Stainless Steel | 3° | 70.5° |
| Odyssey | O-Works Black #1 | 304 Stainless Steel | 3° | 70° |
| Titleist | Scotty Cameron Phantom X 5.5 | 303 Stainless Steel | 3.5° | 70° |
| Mizuno | M-Craft Type I | 1025 Carbon Steel | 3° | 70° |
| Cleveland | Huntington Beach Soft | 304 Stainless Steel | 3° | 70° |
| Callaway | Odyssey White Hot Pro 2.0 Rossie | 1025 Carbon Steel | 3° | 70° |
| Wilson Staff | Infinite West Loop | 304 Stainless Steel | 3° | 71° |
Feel
| Brand | Model | Head Material | Face Insert | Hosel Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scotty Cameron | Select Newport 2 | 303 Stainless Steel | None | Short Slant |
| Bettinardi | Studio Stock 7 | 303 Stainless Steel | None | Plumbers Neck |
| TaylorMade | TP Juno | 303 Stainless Steel | None | L-Neck |
| Ping | Vault 2.0 Dale Anser | 303 Stainless Steel | None | Flow Neck |
| Odyssey | O-Works Black #1 | 304 Stainless Steel | Microhinge Face Insert | Short Slant |
| Titleist | Scotty Cameron Phantom X 5.5 | 303 Stainless Steel | None | Single Bend |
| Mizuno | M-Craft Type I | 1025 Carbon Steel | None | Flow Neck |
| Cleveland | Huntington Beach Soft | 304 Stainless Steel | None | Plumber Neck |
| Callaway | Odyssey White Hot Pro 2.0 Rossie | 1025 Carbon Steel | White Hot Pro Insert | Short Slant |
| Wilson Staff | Infinite West Loop | 304 Stainless Steel | None | Double Bend |
Performance
| Brand | Model | Insert Material | Loft | Lie Angle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Odyssey | O-Works Red #7 | Microhinge Face Insert | 3° | 70° |
| TaylorMade | Spider X Copper | Pure Roll Insert | 2° | 70° |
| Ping | Sigma 2 Valor | Dual-Durometer Insert | 2.5° | 70° |
| Cleveland | Frontline Elevado | Speed Optimized Face Technology | 2° | 70° |
| Scotty Cameron | Futura 5.5M | Multi-Material Face-Sole | 3.5° | 70° |
| Bettinardi | Queen B 9 | Honeycomb Face Milling | 2° | 70° |
| Wilson Staff | Infinite The Bean | Double-Milled Face | 3° | 71° |
| Cobra | King Supersport-35 | SIK Face Insert | 2.5° | 70° |
| Evnroll | ER11V | Sweet Face Technology | 2.5° | 70° |
| Tour Edge | Exotics EXS 220 | Diamond Face Technology | 2.5° | 70° |
Feel
| Brand | Model | Insert Material | Head Material | Hosel Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Odyssey | O-Works Red #7 | Microhinge Face Insert | 304 Stainless Steel | Short Slant |
| TaylorMade | Spider X Copper | Pure Roll Insert | Aluminum | Single Bend |
| Ping | Sigma 2 Valor | Dual-Durometer Insert | 6061 Aluminum | Flow Neck |
| Cleveland | Frontline Elevado | Speed Optimized Face Technology | 304 Stainless Steel | Single Bend |
| Scotty Cameron | Futura 5.5M | Multi-Material Face-Sole | 303 Stainless Steel | Flow Neck |
| Bettinardi | Queen B 9 | Honeycomb Face Milling | 303 Stainless Steel | Plumber Neck |
| Wilson Staff | Infinite The Bean | Double-Milled Face | 304 Stainless Steel | Double Bend |
| Cobra | King Supersport-35 | SIK Face Insert | 304 Stainless Steel | Single Bend |
| Evnroll | ER11V | Sweet Face Technology | 303 Stainless Steel | Flow Neck |
| Tour Edge | Exotics EXS 220 | Diamond Face Technology | 304 Stainless Steel | Double Bend |
Conclusion:
Ultimately, the choice between a milled putter and an insert putter comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a soft feel and are looking for a budget-friendly option, an insert putter may be the way to go. However, if you prioritize consistency and customization, a milled putter may be the better choice. Regardless of which type of putter you choose, make sure to try out different options to find the one that works best for you.
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