Center shafted mallet putters are popular for their high MOI, stability, and extra alignment aids. This article reviews five top options to help American golfers choose a model that fits stroke type and feel preferences. Each product includes a quick look at key features and what to consider when buying.
| Product | Brand | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Ray Cook Silver Ray SR500 Putter | Ray Cook Store | Premium feel with center shaft design |
| Cleveland HB Soft 2 Putter (Model 11) | Cleveland Golf Store | Speed-optimized face for consistent distance |
| Cleveland HB Soft 2 Putter (Model 11) – Black | Cleveland Golf Store | Grip and hosel combinations for straight/slight arc strokes |
| Cleveland HB Soft 2 Putter (Model 11) – White/Alloy | Cleveland Golf Store | All-in shaft balance with weight tuning |
| COOLO Low Torque Golf Putter | COOLO Store | Greater stability and reduced face twisting |
Introduction to center shafted mallet putters, the importance of alignment aids, and what to look for when choosing a model are covered below. The sections that follow provide detailed product-specific information, plus guidance on selecting the right putter for your stroke and practice routine.
Ray Cook Silver Ray SR500 Putter
The Ray Cook SR500 Putter delivers a center-shaft alignment layout intended to help a straight-back-and-through stroke. While listed features are described broadly, this model is positioned as a premium option within Ray Cook’s lineup, emphasizing balance and stability through its design. Reviewers typically look for a consistent tempo and a reliable feel off the face during short putts and mid-range distance control.
Cleveland HB Soft 2 Putter (Model 11) – Silver
The HB Soft 2 line from Cleveland emphasizes a speed-optimized face with a dynamic groove milling pattern designed to normalize ball speed across the striking area. It accommodates straight or slight arc strokes with nine putter shapes aligned to hosel style, toe hang, and grip. All models include a 20g weight in the butt end for a consistent swing feel on longer shafts.
Cleveland HB Soft 2 Putter (Model 11) – Matte Silver
This variant mirrors the HB Soft 2 design with a matte finish option. It shares the same speed-optimized face technology and stroke-specific lineup to support consistent distance control across the bag. The club is built to align with different grip sizes and shaft lengths, maintaining a smooth feel throughout the stroke.
Cleveland HB Soft 2 Putter (Model 11) – Black
This Black variant adds a refined aesthetic while retaining the UST Mamiya all-in shaft characteristics and stability benefits. The package emphasizes a uniform feel across shaft lengths and a forgiving face that supports consistent impact release for various putting styles.
COOLO Low Torque Golf Putter
The COOLO Low Torque model focuses on stability and reduced face twisting through a center shaft design. Features include a CNC milled face for consistent spin and an alignment aid with upper and lower reference lines to help the eye position and keep the putter face flat through contact. The design prioritizes a straight, stable stroke across diverse putting distances.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations For Center Shafted Mallet Putters
- Stroke type compatibility: Straight-back-stroke players may favor models with uniform toe balance, while slight-arc players should look for proper hosel alignment and toe hang to suit their arc.
- Face technology and consistency: Speed-optimized faces, milling patterns, and stability features help maintain distance control on off-center hits. Test for how the face feels on shorter putts and mild mis-hits.
- Weight distribution: Center shafted mallets often incorporate heavier heads or weights in the shaft butt, contributing to high MOI and stability. Consider models with adjustable weights if you vary your setup.
- Aim and alignment aids: Look for clear alignment lines, contrast colors, and high-visibility sightlines. Alignment aids can reduce eye strain and improve setup consistency.
- Grip size and feel: A grip that fits your hands can influence tempo and comfort. Larger grips can dampen wrist action, while smaller grips offer feedback for touch shots.
- Material and finish: Matte finishes reduce glare, while polished heads can wear over time. Carbon fiber components may add stiffness and feel, depending on design.
- shaft length options: Standard options around 34-35 inches suit many players, but longer lengths can help with posture and alignment for taller players or those who prefer a more upright stance.
- Price-to-value balance: Compare features like alignment aids, face technology, and weight tuning. A model with robust alignment and consistent feel often provides longer-term value even if the upfront price is higher.
- Fit with entire bag: If you have multiple putters, consider whether a center shafted mallet integrates smoothly with your current set, both in feel and aesthetics.
Understanding your stroke, preferred alignment method, and how you practice can guide you toward the best center shafted mallet putter. The options above offer a range of alignment features, face technologies, and stability profiles to match different preferences and practice routines. When trying a putter, focus on face feel, consistency across short and longer putts, and how the ball starts on the intended line after impact.