Plumber’s Neck Putter: 3 Benefits You Should Consider for going in the bag

Plumber’s Neck Putter: For any golfer, sinking more putts is the holy grail of lowering your score. While a smooth stroke and exceptional green reading are crucial, the right flatstick can make all the difference. Today, we delve into the world of hosel designs, specifically the plumber’s neck putter, and explore who might benefit from wielding this classic design on the green.

The Art of the Neck: Understanding Hosel Design

The hosel, or neck, is the connection point between the putter shaft and head. It may seem like a minor detail, but the hosel design significantly impacts how the putter head rotates throughout your stroke, influencing factors like face balance and toe hang.

• Face Balance: This refers to the weight distribution between the putter head and the shaft. A center-shafted putter, where the shaft inserts directly in the middle of the head, is considered face-balanced. Putters with hosel bends, like the plumber’s neck, create a face-forward balance, where the head weight is slightly ahead of the shaft.
• Toe Hang: This describes the putter head’s tendency to rotate during the putting stroke. Face-balanced putters with a straight shaft will have minimal toe hang. Hosel bends like the double-bend create varying degrees of toe hang depending on the design. More toe hang can be beneficial for golfers with an arcing stroke, where the putter head swings on a wider arc during the putting motion.

The Plumber’s Neck: A Classic Design for Arc Seekers

The plumber’s neck putter, named for its resemblance to a plumber’s pipe wrench, is easily identified by its strong offset hosel. This design creates a significant amount of toe hang, making it ideal for golfers with a strong arcing putting stroke.

Benefits of the Plumber’s Neck:

• Enhanced Accuracy: The pronounced toe hang in the plumber’s neck helps the putter head naturally square up at impact despite an arcing stroke. This can lead to more consistent direction and improved putting accuracy, especially for golfers who struggle with slices or pulls off the putter face.
• Feel and Feedback: While not exclusive to plumber’s necks, many golfers appreciate the classic blade design often associated with this hosel type. The clean look and feel can provide valuable feedback on how the putt is struck, allowing for better distance control.
• Aesthetics: For some golfers, the plumber’s neck’s traditional design offers a timeless aesthetic that resonates with their preferences.

Who Should Consider a Plumber’s Neck Putter?

While the plumber’s neck boasts potential benefits, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here’s who might find this hosel design particularly advantageous:

• Strong Arc Strokers: If your putting motion features a pronounced arc, the plumber’s neck can be a game-changer. The increased toe hang helps the putter head rotate during the stroke, promoting squarer face contact and improved accuracy.
• Feel Players: Golfers who prioritize feel and feedback in their putter may appreciate the classic blade design often paired with the plumber’s neck. This combination allows for a more connected feel throughout the stroke.
• Experienced Putters: The plumber’s neck design can be more demanding to master due to the increased toe hang. Generally, golfers with a good understanding of their putting stroke and a focus on accuracy tend to benefit the most from this hosel type.

Is the Plumber’s Neck Right for You?

Ultimately, the best way to determine if a plumber’s neck putter is a good fit for your game is to give it a try. Here are some tips:

• Get Fitted: A professional putter fitting can help you identify the ideal hosel design based on your stroke mechanics and putting style.
• Demo Days: Many golf shops host demo days where you can try various putters, including those with plumber’s necks. Take advantage of these opportunities to see how the design feels and performs for you.
• Practice Makes Perfect: If you decide to switch to a plumber’s neck putter, allow yourself time to adjust to the increased toe hang. Consistent practice is key to developing a smooth stroke and maximizing the accuracy benefits of this design.

Classic Design, Modern Performance:

The plumber’s neck putter may have a vintage look, but its design principles remain relevant for modern golfers. By understanding the impact of hosel design and how the plumber’s neck caters to specific putting styles, you can make an informed decision about whether this classic design deserves a spot in your bag. Remember, sinking more putts is all about finding a putter that complements your stroke and inspires confidence on the green.