Choosing the right putter grip is crucial for enhancing a golfer’s feel and control on the greens. The right grip can affect a player’s putting stroke, accuracy, and comfort. Here’s how a golfer would choose a putter grip based on the type of grip and their personal needs:
1. Pistol Grips:
A pistol grip has a non-circular cross-section that widens towards the butt-end of the putter. The grip tilts slightly towards the player. This design is typically more ergonomic and helps promote a more controlled, hands-on feel for putting.
Ideal For:
- Right-Handed Golfers: Pistol grips are often beneficial for golfers who tend to miss putts to the right (for right-handed players). The grip’s shape encourages the putter face to be delivered more closed at impact, which can help prevent pushes and promote a straighter putt.
- Golfers who like a grip that guides their hands into a consistent position at address, which can help with face control throughout the stroke.
How It Helps:
The non-circular shape helps a golfer’s hands naturally rotate the clubface more, making it easier to square the putter at impact and close the face, if needed. It’s also great for those who prefer a more natural hand position that enhances feel and feedback on the greens.
2. Longer Grips (Wrist Lock and Counterbalanced):
Longer grips, like the wrist lock or grips 15” or longer, are used with counterbalanced or armlock putters. These grips have a significantly larger length than standard putter grips and are designed to help reduce wrist movement and promote a more stable putting stroke.
Ideal For:
- Golfers who prefer a more anchored stroke, such as those using counterbalanced or armlock putters, or those who struggle with excessive wrist action during their putting stroke.
- Players seeking stability in their putting stroke, as these longer grips help to prevent unwanted wrist or hand movements by anchoring the putter to the body.
How It Helps:
The extended length allows the grip to be anchored against the golfer’s body (e.g., in the wrist lock style), reducing the chance of wrist breakdown and helping golfers produce a smoother, more stable stroke. This can be especially beneficial for players who have difficulty controlling the timing and consistency of their stroke.
3. General Considerations When Choosing a Putter Grip:
Feel and Comfort:
Grips vary in softness and texture. Choose a grip that feels comfortable in your hands and enhances your ability to control the putter. Some golfers prefer a larger, more cushioned grip for a firmer feel, while others like a softer grip for more tactile feedback.
Stroke Type:
- Straight Stroke: If you have a straight-back-and-through stroke, a slimmer grip might work better, as it allows for a more responsive feel.
- Arcing Stroke: If your stroke has more arc, a larger grip or one that provides more feedback might help you manage the rotation of the putter face.
Grip Length:
If you tend to have a wristy stroke or want to reduce hand movement, you might opt for a longer grip like the wrist lock or counterbalanced grip.
Weighting:
The grip’s weight can impact how the putter feels in motion. A heavier grip can help reduce hand movement and make the putter feel more stable, while a lighter grip may feel more responsive and give the golfer a better connection to the putter face.
Summary:
| Grip Type | Ideal For | Benefits |
| Pistol Grip | Golfers who miss right (right-handed) | Promotes a more closed face at impact, better control |
| Longer Grips (Wrist Lock, Counterbalanced) | Golfers seeking a more anchored, stable stroke | Helps reduce wrist movement and increases stability in the stroke |
| Standard Grips | Golfers with various stroke types | Offers comfort, feel, and control suited to straight or slight arc strokes |
Final Thoughts:
When selecting a putter grip, think about your stroke style, any tendencies like missing putts right or left, your comfort level with wrist movements, and the amount of feedback or stability you prefer. Whether you go for a pistol grip, a longer counterbalanced grip, or a standard grip, the key is to find a style that enhances your control and consistency on the greens.