What is the Best Golf Putter of All Time?

The Best Golf Putter of All Time: Legendary Putters and Iconic Putting Moments

Putting is often called the “game within the game” in golf. A golfer’s ability to sink putts under pressure can make or break championships, and the putter itself is a crucial tool in achieving greatness. 

Over the years, several putters have gained legendary status due to their performance, design, and impact on the game.

Here’s a look at some of the best putters of all time and the incredible stories that made them iconic.

1. Scotty Cameron Newport 2

Famous Users: Tiger Woods, Jordan Spieth

Why It’s Great:

Tiger Woods has used the Scotty Cameron Newport 2 in 14 of his 15 major victories, making it one of the most successful putters in history. The precision-milled blade design, soft feel, and balanced weighting have made it a favorite among top professionals.

Great Putting Story:

At the 1997 Masters, Tiger Woods dominated Augusta National with a record-breaking 12-stroke victory. While his ball-striking was spectacular, his putting with the Newport 2 was flawless. This performance set the tone for his legendary career and cemented the putter’s reputation.

2. Ping Anser

Famous Users: Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Bubba Watson

Why It’s Great:

The Ping Anser, introduced in 1966, is one of the most revolutionary putters ever. Its heel-toe weighted design and plumber’s neck hosel improved consistency and control, influencing nearly every modern putter design.

Great Putting Story:

Jack Nicklaus used a Ping Anser to win the 1986 Masters at age 46, proving that great putting can stand the test of time. His back-nine charge, including draining a crucial 12-foot putt on the 17th hole, remains one of the greatest moments in golf history.

3. Odyssey White Hot 2-Ball

Famous Users: Phil Mickelson, Padraig Harrington

Why It’s Great:

The Odyssey 2-Ball putter introduced an innovative alignment system that helped golfers improve their aim and accuracy. The soft insert also provided excellent feedback on putts.

Great Putting Story:

Padraig Harrington used the 2-Ball putter to win back-to-back major championships at the 2007 Open Championship and the 2008 PGA Championship. His clutch putting down the stretch in both events showcased the putter’s ability to perform under immense pressure.

4. TaylorMade Spider X

Famous Users: Dustin Johnson, Rory McIlroy, Jason Day

Why It’s Great:

A high-MOI mallet putter designed for stability, the Spider X is favored by many top pros due to its forgiveness and alignment aids.

Great Putting Story:

Jason Day dominated the 2015 PGA Championship with the Spider X putter, leading the field in strokes gained putting and setting a new major championship record at 20-under par.

5. Bobby Locke’s Hickory-Shafted Putter

Famous Users: Bobby Locke

Why It’s Great:

Locke, one of the best putters in history, used a hickory-shafted blade putter with a wrist-heavy stroke. His method was unconventional, but it led to four Open Championship victories.

Great Putting Story:

Locke’s ability to read greens and roll putts with perfect pace was legendary. He often said, “You drive for show, but putt for dough,” emphasizing the importance of putting in winning tournaments.

6. Wilson 8802

Famous Users: Ben Crenshaw, Arnold Palmer

Why It’s Great:

This classic blade putter is known for its smooth feel and precision. Ben Crenshaw, nicknamed “Gentle Ben,” used it to become one of the best putters in golf history.

Great Putting Story:

Crenshaw’s emotional 1995 Masters win was one of the most memorable moments in golf history. He drained putt after putt with the Wilson 8802, dedicating the victory to his late coach, Harvey Penick.

7. Titleist Bullseye

Famous Users: Jack Nicklaus, Corey Pavin

Why It’s Great:

The Bullseye putter is a simple brass design that has stood the test of time. It offers excellent feedback and feel.

Great Putting Story:

Corey Pavin used a Bullseye putter to win the 1995 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, making a critical up-and-down on the 18th hole to secure victory.

More Legendary Putting Moments

• Jack Nicklaus at the 1972 U.S. Open: His famous 40-foot birdie putt on the 17th hole at Pebble Beach sealed his third U.S. Open title.

• Tiger Woods at the 2008 U.S. Open: His clutch 12-foot putt on the 72nd hole forced a playoff with Rocco Mediate, leading to his dramatic victory on a broken leg.

• Jordan Spieth at the 2015 Masters: He drained multiple 20-footers throughout the tournament with his Scotty Cameron 009 putter, dominating the field.

• Tom Watson at the 1982 U.S. Open: His incredible chip-in at Pebble Beach on the 17th hole wouldn’t have mattered without his steady putting throughout the tournament.

Conclusion: What Is the Best Putter of All Time?

While every putter on this list has a case for being the best, the Scotty Cameron Newport 2 stands out due to Tiger Woods’ unparalleled success with it.

However, in terms of influence, the Ping Anser is arguably the most significant putter design in golf history, inspiring countless modern putters.

No matter which putter you choose, the key to great putting is confidence, consistency, and a putter that fits your stroke.

Whether you’re looking for a classic blade or a modern mallet, the best putter is the one that helps you make putts when they matter most.