A center-shafted putter is a type of golf putter with the shaft attached to the center of the clubhead. In other words, the shaft of the putter connects to the clubhead at the midpoint, as opposed to the more traditional heel-shafted putters where the shaft is connected near the heel of the clubhead.
Here are a few key points about center-shafted putters:
- Alignment: One of the main benefits of a center-shafted putter is that it can assist with alignment. The center-shafted design helps golfers align the putter face more easily, as the shaft creates a visual reference point at the center of the clubhead. This alignment aid can be helpful for golfers who struggle with squaring the putter face at impact.
- Stroke Path: Center-shafted putters can influence the golfer's stroke path. Due to the shaft's center alignment, it promotes a more straight-back-and-straight-through putting stroke. This stroke path is often associated with a “pendulum” motion and can help golfers maintain a consistent and smooth stroke.
- Personal Preference: The choice of putter design, including center-shafted or heel-shafted, is ultimately a matter of personal preference. Golfers have different putting styles, preferences, and strokes, and what works best for one person may not work as well for another. It's important for golfers to try out different putters and find the one that feels comfortable and suits their stroke and alignment needs.
- Availability: Center-shafted putters may be less common compared to heel-shafted putters, but they are still available from various golf club manufacturers. Golfers interested in using a center-shafted putter can explore the offerings of different brands and models to find the one that suits their preferences.
It's worth mentioning that golf club designs and preferences can evolve over time, and manufacturers may introduce new variations and innovations in putter designs. It's always a good idea to try different putters and consult with a professional or knowledgeable golf retailer for personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and preferences.
A putter whose shaft enters the clubhead directly in the center (between heel and toe). Some golfers feel this type of putter promotes a straight-back, straight-through stroke better than more common heel-shafted models.
Thomas Golf (www.thomasgolf.com) is among the companies offering center-shafted putters.
