Ping Anser Putter: Is It the Most Iconic in History?
The Ping Anser Putter: A Timeless Classic That Revolutionized Putting
The Ping Anser putter is one of the most iconic golf clubs in history. Designed by Karsten Solheim and introduced in 1966, the Anser quickly became the gold standard for putters and has remained a favorite among amateurs and professionals alike for decades.
With its heel-toe weighting, plumber’s neck hosel, and offset shaft, the Anser introduced features that are now common in modern putter design. It has helped golfers win hundreds of professional tournaments, including major championships, and remains a staple in golf shops worldwide.
This article will explore the history, design, impact, famous players, availability, pricing, and benefits of the Ping Anser putter, helping you understand why it is still one of the most trusted putters in the game.
Who Makes the Ping Anser Putter?
The Ping Anser putter is made by PING, a leading golf equipment manufacturer founded by Karsten Solheim in 1959. Originally an engineer for General Electric, Solheim began designing putters in his garage to solve common putting issues. His first putter, the Ping 1-A, was a radical design but helped launch the company into the golf world.
PING is known for innovation in club design, and the Anser was one of its first major breakthroughs. Today, the company continues to be a leader in putter technology, producing high-quality clubs used by professionals and amateurs around the world.
When Was the Ping Anser Introduced?
The Ping Anser was introduced in 1966, and it quickly changed the way golfers approached putting. Karsten Solheim designed the putter with heel-toe weighting, which improved stability and forgiveness on off-center strikes—something that was unheard of at the time.
The putter’s name, “Anser,” came from Karsten’s wife, Louise Solheim, who suggested it would provide the “answer” to golfers’ putting struggles. Due to space constraints on the putter’s head, Solheim dropped the “w” from “Answer,” creating the now-famous name Anser.
Why Is the Ping Anser Putter So Famous?
The Ping Anser putter is widely regarded as one of the greatest putters ever made. Its reputation comes from its revolutionary design, incredible success on the professional tours, and lasting impact on golf equipment.
Game-Changing Design
At the time of its release, most putters had blade-style designs with little forgiveness. The Anser’s heel-toe weighting, cavity-back design, and plumber’s neck offset provided a stable and balanced stroke, improving both distance control and accuracy.
These features have since been adopted by almost every putter manufacturer, making the Anser one of the most influential designs in golf history.
Major Championship Wins and Pro Tour Success
The Ping Anser has been used to win hundreds of tournaments worldwide, including dozens of major championships. Some of the biggest names in golf have used the Anser at various points in their careers:
- Jack Nicklaus – One of the greatest golfers of all time, Nicklaus used the Ping Anser at various points in his career, winning major titles with its help.
- Tiger Woods – While Woods is best known for using a Scotty Cameron Newport 2, his first putter in junior golf was a Ping Anser 2.
- Tom Watson – A multiple-time major champion, Watson trusted the Anser for much of his career.
- Bubba Watson – Still plays with a modern variation of the Ping Anser today.
It’s estimated that more than half of all PGA Tour players have used a variation of the Anser at some point in their careers.
The Putter That Inspired an Entire Industry
The Anser’s design has been copied and modified by almost every major golf manufacturer. Many modern putters still use heel-toe weighting and a plumber’s neck hosel, proving how groundbreaking Solheim’s original design was.
Where Can You Get a Ping Anser Putter and How Much Does It Cost?
The Ping Anser putter is widely available both new and used. Whether you’re looking for a classic vintage model or a modern version, you have several options.
Where to Buy a Ping Anser Putter
- PING’s Official Website (ping.com) – Offers the latest Anser models.
- Golf Retailers – Found at PGA Superstore, Golf Galaxy, and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
- Online Marketplaces – Available on eBay, Amazon, Global Golf, and 2nd Swing Golf.
Typical Price of a Ping Anser Putter
The price of a Ping Anser putter depends on the model and condition:
- Vintage models (1966–1980s) – $200 to $1,000+ (depending on rarity).
- New modern versions – $150 to $300.
- Used models – $75 to $200.
For collectors, original Ping Anser putters from the 1960s and 1970s are highly sought after and can fetch high prices at auction.
How Can the Ping Anser Putter Help Golfers Putt Better?
The Ping Anser putter was designed to make putting easier and more consistent. Here’s how it can improve your game:
1. Heel-Toe Weighting for More Forgiveness
Most amateur golfers struggle with off-center hits, leading to inconsistent distances and accuracy. The Ping Anser’s heel-toe weighting helps stabilize the putter head, keeping putts on line even on mishits.
2. Plumber’s Neck Offset for a Square Stroke
The offset design of the Ping Anser helps golfers square the face at impact, reducing pushes and pulls. This makes it easier to develop a repeatable and reliable stroke.
3. Soft Feel & Excellent Feedback
The milled face and balanced weighting of the Anser provide a great feel, giving golfers better control over speed and distance.
4. Clean Alignment for Easy Aiming
The simple, clean top line of the Ping Anser allows golfers to align putts easily, improving confidence on the greens.
5. Versatility for Different Putting Strokes
Whether you have a straight-back-straight-through stroke or a slight arc, the Ping Anser suits multiple putting styles, making it a great all-around putter.
Conclusion: Why the Ping Anser Remains One of the Best Putters Ever
The Ping Anser putter is a legend in golf. Since its introduction in 1966, it has helped players win hundreds of professional tournaments, influenced the design of nearly every modern putter, and remained one of the most trusted putters among amateurs and pros alike.
With its proven track record, excellent feel, and forgiving design, the Ping Anser continues to be a fantastic choice for golfers looking to improve their putting. Whether you’re a collector looking for a classic or a golfer wanting a reliable putter, the Anser is one of the best investments you can make in your game.
