Blade vs. Mallet Putter: What's the Difference?
Blade or mallet putter? It's a popular question golfers who are looking to improve their putting game ask. With so many brands and technology options, choosing the right putter can feel overwhelming. Our Golf Experts compare blade and mallet putters sharing the benefits and drawbacks of each so you can find the right type of putter that matches your play style.
What is a blade putter?
When most people think of a putter, a blade putter is the image that comes to mind. A blade putter provides a simple design that allows players to have better feel and control, especially when playing fast greens. This makes it a popular choice among intermediate to advanced players. A blade putter is a toe-balanced putter meaning that the club will open and close through your stroke, making a blade putter perfect for those who have an arc putting stroke.
Expert Advice | Best Blade Putters >
What is a mallet putter?
A mallet putter is larger than a blade putter and has a semi-circle appearing on the backside of the clubface. With this style of putter head, players will enjoy a larger sweet spot compared to a blade putter. A mallet putter is a face-balanced putter meaning that the face of the club doesn’t rotate during the backstroke, making it geared towards players with a straight-through stroke or beginner golfers.
Which is Better: Blade or Mallet putters?
“Whether it's the forgiving mallet putter for high handicappers or a blade putter based on course conditions and comfort, the selection should weigh the putter's design against the golfer's individual needs.”
What’s the difference between blade and mallet putters?
Each type of putter—blade and mallet—is designed for different golfers, so there are a few key differences between blade and mallet putters. Our Golf Experts highlight these differences below.
Blade vs. Mallet putters comparison
| Blade | Mallet | |
|---|---|---|
| Head Shape | Slim, flat, blade-like | Larger, varied shapes |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Forgiveness | Less forgiving on mishits | More forgiving on mishits |
| Stroke Type | Arc-shaped | Arc and straight-back-straight-through |
| Best For | Consistent stroke (low handicap), preference for feel and traditional look | Inconsistent stroke (high handicap), seeking forgiveness |
Whether a mallet or blade is right for you depends on your skill level, playing style, and personal preferences. If you have additional questions about choosing a putter, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with a SCHEELS Master Fitter.
About our Experts
Nolan started playing golf with his father when he was 7 years old. Together, they loved going to the local course and watching major tournaments. Today, he gets to enjoy his passion at work being the Golf Merchandiser for SCHEELS.com. He says a bad day on the course beats a good day doing most other things. Now, he gets to enjoy time golfing with his two sons.