TM Kia Ma Imola vs. Bettinardi BC2

[ALeeBarbs]

What are peoples thoughts on these two putters TM Kia Ma Imola & Bettinardi BC2.

I really like this look of this style putter, and can get either of them for pretty reasonable prices. BC2 still going for $100 and the Kia Ma Imola i found local today for only $129. They are both carbon steel which feels a tad softer than the 303/304 stainless that other milled putters are made of, and i like that. I haven't heard much about the Kia Ma's but it felt pretty buttery today. I am not willing to drop $250+ for a Scotty Circa 62.

I really liked the 3/4 shaft offset on the Kia Ma (BC2 i think is a full shaft offset) , but think i would prefer the heavier weight of the BC2. I plan to buy a 33" and the BC2 has a 355g head weight which i have not been able to try in person (only the 34" 343g head). The 33" Kia Ma is only 345g head weight.

I really wish i could test them back to back but no one has both. Any opinions good or bad on either would be appreciated.

[mutadayen]

I can only speak on experience, but I went from a Nike iC putter and an Odyssey 2-Ball putter to the BC2 and have never looked back. I made the change about 1 month ago and I couldn't be happier. The putter has an easy roll and I can honestly say oozes confidence standing above the ball. I know from any distance that im going to be close. Its not psychological thing at all, but simply confidence because you really do pick up a feel of the putter, ball, and green alot easier. I can now pick a line and be confident that ill hit my line and measure my distance just about right. I've only three put once since i've gotten the putter in 4 rounds of golf. As you can tell, i'm 100% behind this putter. I think it's fantastic. From $250 to $99, it's beyond a steal...

[ALeeBarbs]

Does anyone have anything to say about the Kia Ma putters?

Feels pretty sweet and looks unbelievably nice. Though its hard to find any good comments on them.

[CrazyXGolfer]

I had a Bettinardi putter before I got one custom made...... and I really loved it! Only thing I needed to do was add a fair bit of led tape on the bottem of the club, Bettinardi's seem to be lite putters, but really awesome!

[jamo]

Go for the Bettinardi. Softest putter I've ever hit.

[wolverine_man]

I'm happy with my BC-1. Different model, I know, but I like the feel and weight. I did switch out the spongy, stock Winn grip in favor of a PING man blackout. I prefer thinner grips for better feel.

[Hokie2k5]

What are peoples thoughts on these two putters TM Kia Ma Imola & Bettinardi BC2.

I'm not really answering your question but you should be able to find Circa 62's for pretty cheap now that the California Series came out. As for the two putters you listed, I'd go for the BC2. I've never been a fan of TM putters.

[ALeeBarbs]

Sure seems like TM putters even Kia Ma's don't get much play and love. I have been search this forum and the golfwrx forum. The BC's and Bettinardi's in general get a tons of play and love.

Think i may purchase the BC2 i am leaning towards from Golfsmith and then take that with me to the local shop. Golfsmith likely takes returns.

Thanks for the opinions and anyone who has Kia Ma opinions please keep them coming as i probably won't be last person searching for opinions on them.

Last note, the Kia Ma's (2009 versions without the insert) while maybe a tad over the top in appearance, i personally think they are some of the sweetest looking putters i have ever seen. And soft carbon steel doesn't get enough play.

[ALeeBarbs]

played my first round with the mizuno bettinardi BC2 and have to say that i am very happy with the purchase. Love the shape of the head and the soft feel of the carbon steel. The one thing i found extremely nice was the sightline on the top of the flange. Personally it worked great from an alignment perspective.

[wolverine_man]

Glad to hear you're liking it. I love mine. I got the 34" model and it was quite bit heavier than my older Ping Anser but after I got used to the weight, I started loving it. It worked very well for me this past weekend.