The Best Ping Putter of All Time: The Anser Legacy Explained

Ping putters have been at the forefront of golf innovation for decades, with one model consistently emerging as the gold standard: the Ping Anser. Revered by professionals, amateurs, and golf historians alike, the Anser is not only the most famous Ping putter but arguably the most iconic putter design in golf history.

In this article, we’ll explore why the Anser earns the title of the best Ping putter of all time, trace its evolution, and examine other noteworthy models in Ping’s storied lineup.

Origins of the Ping Anser: A Pioneering Design

The Ping Anser was introduced in 1966 by Karsten Solheim, a Norwegian-born engineer who revolutionized putter design. Prior to the Anser, most putters were blade-style and lacked stability. Solheim’s design incorporated heel-toe weighting and an offset hosel, which vastly improved forgiveness and alignment.

Key Innovations:

• Heel-toe weighting for increased MOI (moment of inertia)
• Plumber’s neck hosel to promote proper hand position
• Cavity-back design for enhanced feedback
• One-piece casting for consistency and durability

The Anser was so influential that the USGA reviewed its design to ensure it met conformity standards—a testament to its game-changing nature.

Why the Ping Anser Is Still Considered the Best

More than 500 professional wins have been logged using variations of the Ping Anser, including majors. Hall of Famers like Seve Ballesteros, Tiger Woods (in his junior and early amateur days), and Bubba Watson have trusted versions of the Anser.

Performance Benefits:

• Exceptional alignment
• Balanced feel and weighting
• Proven under pressure
• Easy transition for players used to blade or mallet putters

Tour Validation:

According to Ping, more Anser putters have been in play at major championships than any other model in history. Even today, the Anser remains a common sight in PGA Tour bags.

The Evolution of the Ping Anser

While the original 1966 Anser remains iconic, Ping has refined and reimagined it over the years to meet modern needs.

1. Ping Anser 2

• Slimmer profile
• Sharper corners and topline
• Preferred by players who like more feedback and a slightly firmer feel

2. Ping Scottsdale TR Anser T

• Insert technology (True Roll face)
• Enhanced forgiveness across the face
• High contrast alignment aid

3. Ping Vault Series – Anser 2

• CNC-milled 303 stainless steel
• Premium finish (platinum, slate, etc.)
• Deeper grooves for softer feel

4. Ping PLD (Putting Lab Design) Anser

• Precision-milled from forged carbon steel
• Designed with input from Tour pros
• Used by Tony Finau and Viktor Hovland

Each generation of Anser preserves the fundamental features while integrating modern materials and technology.

Other Legendary Ping Putters

While the Anser is the crown jewel, Ping has developed several other standout models:

Ping Zing

• Introduced in the 1980s
• Slightly different weighting profile than the Anser
• Used by Mark Calcavecchia to win The Open in 1989

Ping B60

• More rounded and compact than the Anser
• Extremely popular among LPGA pros
• Known for consistent roll and soft touch

Ping Karsten Series

• Budget-friendly versions of classic designs
• High MOI and modern face inserts

Ping Sigma 2 Series

• Dual-durometer inserts for feel and feedback
• Adjustable shaft length technology

Research and Stats: Ping Anser’s Lasting Impact

• Over 500 Tour wins by players using Anser-style putters
• Used in 19 major championship wins
• Recognized as the most copied putter design in golf history (source: Golf Digest)
• Design patent filed in 1966, making it one of the first patented putter shapes
• Named to the USGA’s list of most influential equipment designs

Expert Commentary

“The Ping Anser is not just a putter; it’s a benchmark. Every major brand has mimicked its design in some form.” — Golf Digest Equipment Editor

“Karsten Solheim’s Anser did for putters what the metalwood did for drivers. It changed everything.” — Golf Channel Analyst

Final Thoughts: Why the Anser Still Rules

The Ping Anser’s longevity is not an accident. Its simple, effective design offers golfers of all skill levels a blend of precision, consistency, and confidence. Whether you’re rolling the original or a PLD Tour version, you’re wielding a piece of golf history that continues to shape the game.

For anyone serious about putting, the Ping Anser deserves a spot in your testing rotation—or even your bag.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is the Ping Anser good for beginners?
A: Yes. Its forgiving design and balanced weight make it ideal for golfers learning proper alignment and tempo.

Q: What’s the difference between the Anser and Anser 2?
A: The Anser 2 has a sleeker, sharper profile and slightly firmer feel, while the original Anser has a rounder and more traditional shape.

Q: Do professionals still use the Anser today?
A: Yes. Tour players like Tony Finau and Viktor Hovland currently use custom-fit Anser-style putters.

Q: Can I still buy a classic Ping Anser?
A: Absolutely. You can find vintage Anser models online or new iterations in Ping’s PLD and Vault series.

Whether you’re a collector, a weekend warrior, or a competitive player, the Ping Anser remains the best Ping putter of all time—past, present, and likely future.