To some folks, they are called potato mashers, because they are bigger than the original mallet-style putters and, in a pinch, could actually be put to use in the kitchen. But, to most golfers, these trendy, popular putters are simply oversized mallet heads.
Led by Odyssey with its 2-Ball putter, and then boosted by the success of Titleists Futura by Scotty Cameron, most major manufacturers offer a large-headed putter. In fact, its almost impossible to find a foursome today that doesnt have one or more golfers playing with an oversized mallet of some size.
Some of these putters are huge, in comparison to regular mallet heads, like TaylorMades Monza, Ben Hogans Big Ben, MacGregors M14K and Pings new Doc17. But, because many golfers could not adopt to the much bigger putterheads, equipment companies are also offering what might be called a mid-sized extended mallet putter.
Putters in this mid-size range would include Odysseys 2-Ball and Titleists Futura, along with introductions this season such as Pings Craz-E, TaylorMades Mezza Monza, MacGregors M5K and Ben Hogans Baby Ben.
"These larger putterheads mean a deeper center of gravity directly behind the ball, resulting in a higher MOI [moment of inertia], which means less twisting at impact and a more solid stroke," said Barry Schneider, MacGregor Golf owner/CEO. "Essentially, [these putters] widen the sweet spot, even on mis-hits."
Heres a selected look at mid-sized extended mallet putters available this season.
TAYLORMADE
As part of TaylorMades Rossa family of putters, the new Mezza Monza incorporates many of the looks and characteristics of the original Monza, introduced in 2003.
The Mezza putter, which is 15 percent smaller from heel to toe than the original Monza, has a trapezoidal-shaped head, CGB pipes (center of gravity back) and a Titallium face insert. Together, these features contribute to a deep center of gravity meant to enhance launch conditions and forward roll.
A nearly bounceless roll of the face should promote a smooth, tight roll to help control distance and direction.
Each putterhead is forged from lightweight aluminum. The CGB pipes, positioned perpendicular to the clubface, are made of Titallium and precision-filled with tungsten. The CGB pipes allow TaylorMade engineers to better strategically position weight. Also, the pipes are separated by a white sight-line to help with direction.
 | |
| The suggested retail price for the Mezza Monza is $199. (Provided to GolfWeb) |
