There's been a lot of hype about the new putters, pretty much since they were announced. Usually I run from hype, but I was curious about these after seeing the tour versions at the PGA show in January. Even though I'm not a huge stainless fan, and even though I'm not really into Newport 2s (I prefer the softer Newport/Scottsdale Anser lines), I figured I'd take the plunge and see what these were all about. I don't think they're due in the shops here until April 1, though they are showing up in retail stores in the States already. And also my mailbox. :-) Have to say, so far I'm impressed.
I went with a red cord grip on a 35" putter with 10g weights, so a 340g headweight, the same setup as my mil-spec gamer. With the 15' snowbanks out there, I've only been able to do some carpet putting, but the feel/sound is very similar to my Oil Can Newport, which is outstanding. Soft without being mushy is the best way I can describe it, it feels very precise. The look of the new NP2 design with the higher toe is great, it sets up really nice behind the ball. And it may be my imagination, but it seems like the length of the blade is shorter too, which I like. The aesthetics of the putter are great, I love the cherry bombs on the face and in the cavity. Not a huge fan of the cover though, it's very shiny.
Anyway, I can't wait to get this thing on the course. It's great on the carpet and has really good potential as a main gamer. Not sure I'm willing to give up on the mil-spec yet, but I really like this putter. Here are some pictures.
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