In golf, the type of putter face—whether milled or insert—can significantly impact feel, feedback, forgiveness, and overall performance. Both types offer distinct advantages and are suited for different preferences based on the golfer’s needs and stroke style.
Milled Putters:
- Manufacturing Process: Milled putters are made through a precise CNC milling process, where the putter head is carved from a solid block of metal (usually steel). This method allows for tight tolerances and consistent construction, resulting in a highly detailed and uniform putter face.
- Feel and Feedback:
- Milled putters are known for their superior feel and feedback. The solid, one-piece construction provides a more tactile response on impact, allowing golfers to sense the quality of their strike.
- The sound produced by a milled putter can also provide audible feedback, which can help golfers gauge whether they’ve struck the ball cleanly. A solid, pure strike will produce a distinct sound, while a poor strike will result in a more muted or off-tone sound. This audible feedback can help golfers improve their consistency over time.
- Durability: Milled putters are typically made from high-quality materials, which can last longer and resist wear better than insert putters. This can make them a good long-term investment for golfers who want durability in addition to performance.
- Cost: Due to the complex manufacturing process and materials used, milled putters are usually more expensive than insert putters.
Insert Putters:
- Manufacturing Process: Insert putters have a face insert (often made from materials like urethane, polymer, or aluminum) that is bonded to the main body of the putter. The insert acts as the striking surface, and its material can vary based on the desired characteristics.
- Feel and Forgiveness:
- Insert putters are softer than milled putters and are designed to provide more forgiveness on off-center hits. The insert material absorbs some of the shock, resulting in a smoother feel for the golfer, particularly on mis-hits.
- While they are generally less responsive than milled putters, insert putters still provide good feedback, though not as much as milled putters. The sound of the strike will differ from the crisp, metallic sound of a milled putter, often producing a softer, more muted tone.
- Lighter Weight: The insert design tends to make the putter head lighter compared to milled putters, which can help some golfers with control and stability, especially those who prefer a lighter putter for a faster, more fluid stroke.
- Maximum Forgiveness: Because of the insert’s softer material, insert putters tend to be more forgiving on off-center strikes. The face insert helps to reduce the effects of mishits, making them ideal for golfers who want more help with accuracy and consistency on their putts.
- Cost: Insert putters are generally more affordable than milled putters, as the manufacturing process is less complex and the materials used for the inserts are often more cost-effective.
Comparison of Milled vs. Insert Putters:
| Feature | Milled Putters | Insert Putters |
| Manufacturing Process | CNC milling from a solid block of metal | Face insert bonded to the putter head |
| Feel and Feedback | Excellent feel and feedback; crisp, audible sound | Softer feel; less feedback; muted sound |
| Forgiveness | Less forgiving on off-center hits | More forgiving on off-center hits |
| Sound | Loud, distinctive sound based on strike quality | Softer, quieter sound |
| Weight | Heavier, providing more stability | Lighter, allowing for smoother stroke control |
| Durability | Long-lasting, resistant to wear | May wear out faster, especially the insert material |
| Cost | More expensive due to manufacturing complexity | More affordable, with a simpler production process |
Which One is Best for You?
Milled Putters are ideal for golfers who value feel and feedback in their putting stroke. These putters provide a more responsive, tactile experience, which can help players improve their consistency over time. If you’re an experienced golfer who wants to fine-tune your stroke and enjoys feeling the impact of the ball, a milled putter may be a good choice.
Insert Putters are better for golfers who prioritize forgiveness and a softer feel. If you struggle with consistency or often miss putts on the toe or heel, the insert’s forgiving nature can help mitigate these mishits. Additionally, insert putters are a good option for golfers who prefer a lighter putter to help with stroke speed and stability.
Conclusion:
- Milled Putters provide excellent feedback, durability, and are ideal for players who prefer a solid, responsive feel with a distinctive sound. They are typically more expensive but tend to last longer.
- Insert Putters offer greater forgiveness, a softer feel, and a lighter They are often preferred by golfers looking for more help with their consistency and a more affordable option.
Choosing between a milled or insert putter ultimately depends on your preferences regarding feel, feedback, forgiveness, and your putting stroke.