Key decisions in selecting your optimal putter

[B-Con]

1) I think the primary difference to examine is face-balanced versus full toe-hang (and the variations between). To me, they felt very different on take-away and through the stroke, and I couldn't force either one to fit its opposite stroke well. Face-balanced only felt good for straight-back-straight-through, and only strong toe-hang felt good for gating. I would determine which of those you like the best first.

2) The second difference was heel vs center shafted, but I haven't seen a putter that was center-shafted and not face-balanced. If you like face-balanced putters, then where the shaft intersects with the head may be the second biggest factor.

3) Blade vs mallet is just preference, but again, mallet is almost always (are there any exceptions?) going to be face-balanced, but some blades will also be face-balanced. Make that decision first before looking at blade vs mallet.

4) Find a weight that you like. Some feel that lighter putters can offer more distance control, but the primary disadvantage to lighter putters is that they're easier to yip. Less mass means less inertia which means it's easier to effect. On those short 2 footers where you're swinging very little, a heavy putter will not stray as easier once the backswing has started than a light putter.