In recent years, stand up putters have increased in popularity…and in controversy. While many feel they offer too much of an advantage and that they should be considered an illegal putter, it seems they’re here to stay.
Are stand alone putters legal? The USGA has deemed stand alone putters as legal under Rule 10.2b. The rule permits the use of club heads as a tool to help the player identify the appropriate line, as long as the club head is placed directly behind the ball. The rule specifically prohibits other tools like alignment rods or the use of other clubs.
Why Are Stand Up Putters Legal?
The biggest controversy that these types of putters cause is how they aid a player in assessing the line of play. When using a self-standing putter, a player can stand further behind the ball and get a better look of the green and the line of play. This makes putting significantly easier, thus many people question if it is actually legal.
Despite the controversy that they cause, the USGA has made it pretty clear that golfers are totally allowed to use these putters when playing. More specifically, in section 10.2b (3)/1 of their rules, they say:
“Setting Clubhead on Ground Behind Ball to Help the Player Take a Stance is Allowed:
Rule 10.2b(3) does not allow a player to set down an object (such as an alignment rod or a golf club) to help the player take a stance.
However, this prohibition does not prevent a player from setting his or her clubhead behind the ball, such as when a player stands behind the ball and places the clubhead perpendicular to the line of play and then walks around from behind the ball to take his or her stance.”
Is The S7K Putter Legal?
S7K Putters are legal according to the USGA. Any player is allowed to use a S7K putter, as it conforms to all of the rules regarding putter alignment and golf equipment.
Are Bloodline Putters Legal?
Yes, Bloodline putters are absolutely legal. Following the 10.2b (3)/1 rule stated by the USGA, a player can use a Bloodline putter as long as the clubhead is placed directly behind the ball. Additionally, Bloodline putters conform to all of the specifications required by the USGA, thus they are totally legal to play with.
What is Bloodline?
In case you are unaware, Bloodline is one of the most well-known manufacturers of stand alone putters. Their putters have been used by the likes of Ernie Els and Adam Svensson. The company offers 6 different styles of stand up putters, at around $500 each.
The price for these putters are quite high, however it is somewhat justified. Not only does each offer the self-standing feature, but they also are made with a graphite shaft, which is a much more expensive material than the traditional steel material.
Is The Stand Alone Putter Allowed On The PGA Tour?
Although they are pretty uncommon with professional players, stand alone putters are legal to use in the PGA. In general the PGA follows the USGA’s ruling with pretty much all of their regulations, and the ruling on these putters is no different.
To be honest, with all of the latest and new technology that is coming out for professional golfers, I’m surprised to see that these aren’t used that much. My guess is that some players just have a specific brand that they are contractually obligated to stick to, and others might want to avoid the controversy. Other than that, it is pretty hard to figure out why these clubs aren’t in every pro player’s bag.
How Do Stand Up Putters Work?
There is a bit of science behind the magic of the stand up putter. The way these putters can actually stand on their own is attributed to their heavy head and light-weight shaft.
Unlike most traditional putters, a stand alone putter’s head weight is around 400 grams, whereas most other putters have an average head weight of 350 grams. That combined with its light-weight graphite shaft (weighing less than 50 grams) allow it to stand up without tipping over.
Essentially, traditional putters have lighter club heads and heavier steel shafts, while stand alone putters have heavy club heads and lighter graphite shafts.
Benefits Of A Stand Alone Putter
A self-standing putter ultimately reduces the uncertainty you’ll have about your line of putt. In turn, this will help you reduce the amount of strokes you take while putting. More specifically, the benefits of these clubs include:
- Better alignment: According to Bloodline, “A putt aimed 1° off the line from 10 [feet] will miss the target by 2 [inches]”. A stand alone putter reduces the chances of misalignment which will help reduce the amount of strokes you’ll take while putting. More specifically, the putter gives the golfer a chance to stand directly behind the club and get a better understanding of the line of play.
- More Consistency: With a heavier clubhead than the average putter, the stand alone putter reduces the inconsistencies and micro-movements that can prevent you from making a clean putt. Essentially, a heavy club head can help make a much smoother and straighter swing.
- Increased Confidence: Getting a better view of your line of play will also reduce your uncertainty when putting. This will substantially help with your putting confidence over time.
While there is no guarantee that your game will improve, a putter like this definitely has a lot of potential if used correctly. Understanding where your weaknesses are while you are putting can help you really decide if a putter like this is worth it. For example, if you know that you have a pretty tough time reading the green or aligning your putt, a club like this is probably worth some consideration.
Final Thoughts: Stand Alone Putters
After learning about this putter, I am actually a really big fan of it. Not only is it totally legal to use, it’s an incredible tool that makes putting much simpler. It offers a great advantage, especially those who struggle on the greens. The only real downsides to this putter are its price and the controversy it may cause. So, if this club is within your budget, and you don’t mind taking the criticism that might come with using it, I’d say it’s a worthy investment
