As a senior golfer, you might have come across the Broomstick and Armlock putters and wondered if it’s worth switching to them. In this post, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using a long putter and help you make an informed decision.
Broomstick and Armlock putter
What is a Broomstick and Armlock putter?
A Broomstick putter also know as a “Long putter” is a putter with a longer shaft than a traditional putter. The shaft can be up to 50 inches long, which is about 15 inches longer than a standard putter shaft. The longer shaft allows golfers to stand more upright and use their arms and shoulders to make the putting stroke, rather than their wrists and hands.
Armlock putters, also known as “arm-anchored” putters, have gained attention in recent years. They are characterized by a unique design that involves gripping the shaft against the lead forearm. This technique helps to promote a more consistent putting stroke and minimizes wrist manipulation.
One of the main advantages of using a Broomstick or Armlock putter is its potential to improve stability and consistency in your putting stroke. The putters can minimize hand and wrist movement, reducing the chances of yips or jerky motions. This stability can be particularly beneficial for seniors who may experience more tremors or have limited mobility in their hands.
Another advantage of the Broomstick or Armlock putter is its ability to promote a more pendulum-like putting motion. With the longer shaft, you can create a smoother, flowing stroke, similar to a pendulum swinging back and forth. This can lead to better rhythm and tempo in your putting, resulting in more accurate and controlled rolls on the greens.
Additionally, the longer length of the putter can provide some seniors with better posture and alignment over the ball. Many older golfers may struggle with back or knee issues, and bending over a standard-sized putter can be uncomfortable. The longer putter can allow you to stand more upright, reducing strain on your body and potentially improving your overall putting performance.
Should I try a Broomstick or Armlock putter as a senior golfer?
Whether or not you should try a Broomstick or Armlock putter, depends on a number of factors, including your individual putting style, your physical fitness level, and your personal preferences.
Talk to your golf coach. If you have a golf coach, talk to them about whether or not they think a Broomstick or Armlock putter would be right for you. They can help you assess your putting problems and recommend the best solution for you.
Try a Broomstick or Armlock putter before you buy one. Most golf shops have Broomstick or Armlock putters that you can try out. This is a great way to see if a long putter feels comfortable in your hands and if you can control it.
Is a Broomstick or Armlock putter right for you?
Whether or not a Broomstick or Armlock putter is right for you depends on your individual circumstances. If you are a senior golfer who is struggling with your putting, you may want to consider trying a Broomstick or Armlock putter. However, it is important to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks before making a decision.
Benefits of using a Broomstick or Armlock putter
Broomstick or Armlock putters have become increasingly popular in recent years, and many senior golfers have found that they can help them improve their putting accuracy and consistency. Here are some of the potential benefits of using a longer putter:
- Reduced back stress: The longer shaft of a Broomstick or Armlock putter allows golfers to stand more upright when putting, which can help to reduce back stress. This can be a significant benefit for senior golfers who may be more prone to back pain than younger golfers.
- Improved putting accuracy and consistency: The longer shaft and counterbalanced weight of a longer putter can help golfers to make a more controlled and consistent putting stroke. This is because the golfer is using their larger muscles, such as their arms and shoulders, to make the stroke, rather than their smaller muscles, such as their wrists and hands.
- Increased confidence: Many senior golfers find that using a longer putter gives them more confidence on the putting green. This is because they know that they are using a putter that is designed to help them make more consistent putts.
Broomstick Putter
Armlock Putter
Bell III 365 Face-On CNC Milled No-Anchor Belly Style Long Broomstick Mallet Golf Putter
Crafted with high-grade 303 stainless steel billets by a veteran master machinist to the highest quality standards. CNC PRECISION MILLED – A total of nine manufacturing operations are required to create a beautiful custom putter to the highest tolerances only attainable from CNC precision machining.
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KING 3D Printed Agera Armlock Putter
The KING Agera Armlock putter is designed in a 41” setup with a special armlock-specific grip to promote the most consistent stroke for players that prefer to rest the grip and shaft against their lead forearm. A multi-material OS mallet construction with SIK Face Technology creates our most stable and forgiving putter for more consistent and accurate putts.
Drawbacks of using a Broomstick or Armlock putter
While there are many potential benefits to using a Broomstick or Armlock putter, there are also a few potential drawbacks to consider:
- More difficult to control: The longer shaft of a Broomstick or Armlock putter may make it more difficult to control the putter head, especially at close range. This can lead to more missed putts.
- Takes time to get used to: Another factor to consider is the adjustment period required when switching to a Broomstick or Armlock putter. It may take some time to get accustomed to the different feel and mechanics of the longer shaft. You’ll need to invest time and effort into practicing with the Broomstick or Armlock putter to develop a consistent stroke and achieve the desired results.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself when deciding whether or not to try a Broomstick or Armlock putter:
- What are my main putting problems? What are the main problems you have with your putting? Are you struggling with accuracy or consistency? Do you have back pain? If you think that a Broomstick or Armlock putter could help you address your putting problems, then it may be worth trying one.
- What is my physical fitness level? Can I comfortably stand more upright when putting?
- How much time am I willing to invest in learning to use a Broomstick or Armlock putter?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, then a Broomstick or Armlock putter may be a good option for you.
Tips for using a Broomstick or Armlock putter
If you do decide to try a Broomstick or Armlock putter, here are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Experiment with Grip and Stance:
- Begin by experimenting with different grip styles and stances. Finding the right grip that complements your stroke is crucial for both Broomstick and Armlock putting. Adjust your hand placement and stance to achieve a comfortable and repeatable stroke.
2. Pendulum Motion for Broomstick Putting:
- With the Broomstick putter, embrace the pendulum motion. The extended shaft allows for a more sweeping and controlled stroke. Practice a rhythmic pendulum swing, utilizing the length of the putter to achieve a smooth and consistent tempo.
3. Focus on Stability with Armlock Putting:
- Stability is key when using an Armlock putter. Ensure a secure connection between the putter grip and your lead forearm. Experiment with the angle and pressure to find a position that feels stable while maintaining a natural and unrestricted putting stroke.
4. Practice Distance Control:
- Both Broomstick and Armlock putters can influence distance control. Spend dedicated practice time on varying putt lengths to develop a sense of how far the ball travels with different strokes. Consistent distance control is critical for sinking putts consistently.
5. Find Your Putter Length:
- The length of the putter is a crucial factor. Experiment with different lengths to determine the one that suits your putting style and body proportions. A well-fitted putter enhances comfort and can contribute to improved accuracy.
6. Utilize Putting Drills:
- Incorporate putting drills into your practice routine. Drills focused on alignment, consistency, and reading greens can sharpen your skills with Broomstick and Armlock putters. Work on both short and long putts to cover a variety of scenarios.
7. Maintain a Relaxed Grip Pressure:
- Avoid gripping the putter too tightly. A relaxed grip promotes a smoother stroke and helps prevent unnecessary tension in the hands and forearms. Experiment with grip pressures to find the balance that allows for control without sacrificing fluidity.
8. Study Successful Players:
- Watch and study professional golfers who use Broomstick or Armlock putters. Analyze their techniques, setup, and putting strokes. Extract valuable insights from their approach and adapt elements that resonate with your style.
9. Adapt to Green Conditions:
- Green conditions play a significant role in putting success. Adjust your approach based on factors like green speed, slope, and grain. Adaptability is key to becoming a proficient putter, regardless of the putter type.
10. Seek Professional Guidance:
- Consider seeking guidance from a golf instructor or club fitting professional. They can provide personalized advice on your putting technique, help you find the right putter specifications, and offer tailored drills to enhance your skills.
Common Challenges and Solutions:
1. Overcoming Initial Awkwardness:
- Challenge: Many golfers find Broomstick and Armlock putters awkward initially.
- Solution: Give yourself time to acclimate. Start with short putts and gradually work your way to longer distances. Consistent practice will help build confidence and familiarity.
2. Dealing with Regulation Changes:
- Challenge: Golf’s governing bodies have imposed regulations on anchored putting methods.
- Solution: Stay informed about rule changes and ensure your putting technique complies with the latest regulations. If needed, consult with a golf professional to make necessary adjustments.
3. Balancing Stability and Feel:
- Challenge: Achieving a balance between stability and feel with Armlock putting.
- Solution: Experiment with grip pressure and shaft angle to find a position that offers stability without sacrificing the feel for the putt. Regular practice will help refine this balance.
Conclusion:
Mastering Broomstick and Armlock putting requires a blend of experimentation, practice, and adaptability. While these unconventional methods may feel different at first, many golfers find success with them after overcoming initial challenges. Remember that individual preferences play a significant role, so be patient, stay open to adjustments, and enjoy the journey of refining your putting skills with these distinctive putters. Whether you choose the sweeping motion of the Broomstick or the stability of the Armlock, the key to success lies in consistent practice and a willingness to embrace the uniqueness of your chosen putting style.
Rule 14.1b You can still use a Broomstick putter, as long as you don’t anchor it to your body. The Armlock rules prohibit using an Armlock putter grip that comes into contact with the upper arm. To comply with the rules, make sure the grip is positioned below the elbow crease.
Moreover, it’s crucial to remember that equipment alone won’t magically transform your putting game. While the Broomstick or Armlock putter can provide certain benefits, technique, green reading, and practice remain vital components of successful putting. It’s essential to work on your fundamentals and seek guidance from a golf professional to ensure you’re using the Broomstick or Armlock putter effectively.
In conclusion, deciding whether to try a Broomstick or Armlock putter as a senior golfer requires careful consideration. It offers potential advantages such as improved stability, a smoother stroke, and better posture. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences, physical capabilities, and willingness to adapt to a different style of putting. If you’re curious and motivated to explore new possibilities, it might be worth giving the Broomstick or Armlock putter a try to see if it can enhance your game on the greens.
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[…] Choose a putter length that suits your height and putting style. There are various types and lengths of putters to choose from, including the Broomstick and Armlock putters. […]