Over-proliferation of "Boutique" Putter Shops?

I am a huge fan of anything artisan when it comes to golf equipment. Irons, wedges, ball markers, belt buckles, headcovers. They all add that special flair to a bag that puts everyone on notice, "HERE. I. AM". I simply love to see the uniqueness, creativity and craftsmanship of these artisans put on display for the world to enjoy. Its one of the few expressions of artistry that I actually enjoy in this world.

But I don't think there's any debate: when it comes to golf artistry, putters are king. I cannot tell you how many nights have been lost after falling down the putter porn rabbit hole. A day at the Louvre? Meh. A day at the B Hive? I'm a kid at a candy store. And I LOVE candy.

I just got my first Byron, and I'm at a loss for words. It feels cheesy and corny af to say, but I can honestly feel the tender love and care that was put into crafting this gem. The hand shaping, the stamping, the finish, not a micron of her went overlooked. Its glorious. And there's an indescribable feeling you get from holding a putter that's made for YOU that you simply cannot get from OTR. Its just special.

There are a number of artisans out there that I'm a big fan of. Kari Lajosi (my intro to sexy sticks), Lumpy Uselton, Byron Morgan, LaMont Mann, Dave Billings, Tad Moore, the list goes on and on. Each one talented and unique in their own way. You may or may not love any one of their work, but you cannot deny their talent or their fearlessness to do work that is uniquely "them". I think Dave Billings is the perfect example of this. You may not have personally liked the design aesthetics of "Machine" putters. I personally felt they were a bit too robotic for my taste. But I cannot deny his craftsmanship, nor that his works were unique compared to everything else out there. I dare you to pull up photos of some of his damascus gems, and try to tell me that isn't the work of a genius.

All that being said, it feels like this space has been getting a bit crowded in the past few years. That in itself isn't a bad thing at all. More artists means easier access to artisan putters for the golfing world. But as I look at a lot of these new players work, it feels like there's something...I don't know...lacking? I can have 5 different tabs open, each for a different site, cycle through all 5 and not be able to discern any difference in what's pictured apart from the obvious logos in the cavity.

Its as if a bunch of dudes went to GitHub, downloaded the same CAD model for an Anser/Anser2 head, plugged in into a milling machine, and bead-blasted for a "tour non-glare" finish. It all feels the same. Sure there may be some custom stamping involved, but thats about it. I am not gonna call out anyone specifically, but I don't think it's hard to pin down.

Where are the unique head designs? The personally hand-shaped lines? The crazy necks? The cool finishes? Where's the artistry? All those special little details that separate boutique putters from OTR?

Maybe I'm taking crazy pills here? Or do y'all agree with me? Is this simply a money grab by guys who recognized a supply/demand inefficiency in the marketplace? Or are people simply trying to stick to what they know works (Ansers), instead of exposing themselves to risk by being creative and artistic?

Yes and to avoid a long story just look up threads on Lamb’s offerings in forums. Great ‘debates’ about imitation etc.

Very close to SC’s take on quite a bit to include stamping, headcovers, ball makers etc. Still very cool and ‘custom’ but..

Now for me, SC’s success story isn’t a bad one to try & model. Maybe as Lamb grows he will pave his own way as well. Allen head, anser style and one other popular model are what I’ve seen the most of from Lamb. I think in the beginning he had some twisted necks and neck options available.

But you’re right about no new headshapes/necks coming around, or those makers are still really small and we haven’t heard of them. Might be as you stated, that there is a high demand of players wanting a custom made/customized putter outside of the household names in golf.

Seeing more of this guys stuff on Instagram lately. Kind of cool and definitely some gorgeous putters. Also some ugly.

https://www.instagram.com/bradleyputters

Seems like anyone with a cnc machine is a putter maker these days.

Personally, I don’t care for the crappy looking welds and crooked stamps either.

I can three putt with anything, so why spend thousands of dollars to do it? It’s not hard to get a OTR putter to suit you or your eye. Loft lie and length can all be made to suit you. Colors and finishes can easily be changed by guys like boa and putter spa.... all done much cheaper than any of the high priced names mentioned in the op.

Those guys you mentioned have been around the block.

I do feel there are more folks around corner nowadays.

My only experience with artisan putters was a failed attempt to buy a Mann Krafted putter a few years ago. After agreeing a spec with LaMont, he went quiet. Despite several more failed attempts to get him re-engaged I gave up, figuring he didn’t want my business. It left me feeling really underwhelmed by his lack of effort, and put me off looking at any other artisan brands. Given my experience, and the stories about Machine, it leads me to the conclusion that their unreliability makes them not worth the effort.

That said, there do seem to be good ones. A friend of mine has several Byron Morgan’s, and can’t speak highly enough of them.

I like to look at all the nice putters on here and can appreciate the machine work and artistry etc. But for me that is where it ends. I mostly putt with putters I find on the scrap heap at work. LOL I am going to make some folks wince on here with this but I flat refuse to game a putter I have to put a cover on. But hey if that is one's cup of tea so to speak then so be it. Like I said I like to look etc but as far as buying one and actually using it ain't for me

There are a couple of putter makers who have been around a while that I would actually pony up money for if something caught my eye. All the rest are hyped up milling machine operators.

I am a huge fan of anything artisan when it comes to golf equipment. Irons, wedges, ball markers, belt buckles, headcovers. They all add that special flair to a bag that puts everyone on notice, "HERE. I. AM". I simply love to see the uniqueness, creativity and craftsmanship of these artisans put on display for the world to enjoy. Its one of the few expressions of artistry that I actually enjoy in this world.

 

But I don't think there's any debate: when it comes to golf artistry, putters are king. I cannot tell you how many nights have been lost after falling down the putter porn rabbit hole. A day at the Louvre? Meh. A day at the B Hive? I'm a kid at a candy store. And I LOVE candy.

 

I just got my first Byron, and I'm at a loss for words. It feels cheesy and corny af to say, but I can honestly feel the tender love and care that was put into crafting this gem. The hand shaping, the stamping, the finish, not a micron of her went overlooked. Its glorious. And there's an indescribable feeling you get from holding a putter that's made for YOU that you simply cannot get from OTR. Its just special.

 

There are a number of artisans out there that I'm a big fan of. Kari Lajosi (my intro to sexy sticks), Lumpy Uselton, Byron Morgan, LaMont Mann, Dave Billings, Tad Moore, the list goes on and on. Each one talented and unique in their own way. You may or may not love any one of their work, but you cannot deny their talent or their fearlessness to do work that is uniquely "them". I think Dave Billings is the perfect example of this. You may not have personally liked the design aesthetics of "Machine" putters. I personally felt they were a bit too robotic for my taste. But I cannot deny his craftsmanship, nor that his works were unique compared to everything else out there. I dare you to pull up photos of some of his damascus gems, and try to tell me that isn't the work of a genius.

 

All that being said, it feels like this space has been getting a bit crowded in the past few years. That in itself isn't a bad thing at all. More artists means easier access to artisan putters for the golfing world. But as I look at a lot of these new players work, it feels like there's something...I don't know...lacking? I can have 5 different tabs open, each for a different site, cycle through all 5 and not be able to discern any difference in what's pictured apart from the obvious logos in the cavity.

 

Its as if a bunch of dudes went to GitHub, downloaded the same CAD model for an Anser/Anser2 head, plugged in into a milling machine, and bead-blasted for a "tour non-glare" finish. It all feels the same. Sure there may be some custom stamping involved, but thats about it. I am not gonna call out anyone specifically, but I don't think it's hard to pin down.

 

Where are the unique head designs? The personally hand-shaped lines? The crazy necks? The cool finishes? Where's the artistry? All those special little details that separate boutique putters from OTR?

 

Maybe I'm taking crazy pills here? Or do y'all agree with me? Is this simply a money grab by guys who recognized a supply/demand inefficiency in the marketplace? Or are people simply trying to stick to what they know works (Ansers), instead of exposing themselves to risk by being creative and artistic?

Pics of your new gem or it didn’t happen;)

over proliferation of pot shops and putter shops

It's kind of like the explosion of craft breweries...

Everyone has their unique spin or flavors. Some are good while others are just much better.

I agree with what you're saying but think it's ok... Byron and Lamont (in my opinion) make the best putters available that have that custom crafted, polished, fully finished look. I think Byron has as many requests as he can fill of the same models and options and Lamont still trys some new things from time to time. I'm sure as a small business owner that's tough to balance in how you spend your time. You mentioned others that have the craftsmanship in their products as well.

I think Lamb has some good finish options and the

Chiseled hosel and divot tools are something of a signature finish. He created as much of a brand as a putter company, but that's a different debate.

I also agree that some others out there are just milling machine garage shops that downloaded some cad design. Lack of creativity. I'll name a few: Kingston, self made, and swag. Not saying it's not quality, just not too unique in terms of putter design.

BUT, I think that's how it has to start. Learn to do what others have done, then add your own creativity and style to it. I think artists, musicians, etc all learn the basics based on the work of others, then they can create something. Listen to an interview with any musician and you'll hear who they got their inpiration from. Maybe 10 years from now we will have a flood of new creativity from the small shops.

My only experience with artisan putters was a failed attempt to buy a Mann Krafted putter a few years ago. After agreeing a spec with LaMont, he went quiet. Despite several more failed attempts to get him re-engaged I gave up, figuring he didn’t want my business. It left me feeling really underwhelmed by his lack of effort, and put me off looking at any other artisan brands. Given my experience, and the stories about Machine, it leads me to the conclusion that their unreliability makes them not worth the effort.

 

That said, there do seem to be good ones. A friend of mine has several Byron Morgan’s, and can’t speak highly enough of them.

I wish that I could say that this never happens, but that would be inaccurate. I promise that it is never a lack of desire to do the work.

That said, please do not let my inability to focus and earn your business keep you from sampling some of the work of guys like Byron Morgan, Lumpy at Xenon or Kari Lajosi. The putter world is amazing, right now, but I agree with the OP that many of the new guys are seeing $$$ and not an opportunity to learn a craft and bring back a lost art. As a consumer, you have some magnificent shots at getting a putter from someone on that list that LOVES the work, does it for reasons beyond the money and puts a piece of himself into every creation.

My sincere apologies for my failure to follow thru, but give one of the other guys a chance. You will be treated to a piece of work that you will never regret purchasing.

LaMont in AZ

Artisan is the old Oven crew right?

Just an opinion, but I thought their Nike stuff was sexier. Obviously Artisan gets the job done I.e. P Reeds masters win.

I just look up their Nike Oven stuff and say WOW.

Is Artisan selling their wedges to the public yet?

I will add David Mills to the list of boutique putter makers who are legitimate craftsmen. Anyone who learned the craft under TP Mills is the real deal and I love the designs by both father and son. Some of the refinished old Spalding carbon steel putters designed by TP Mills are exquisite. David’s work is elite in its own right.

The head shape I love the most is a Piretti Matera

Nobody has a similar shape that I see

The head shape I love the most is a Piretti Matera

 

Nobody has a similar shape that I see

Pretty sure the TP Mills Fleetwod pre-dates the Matera quite a bit.

Kevin Burns is the only putter maker I would buy something direct and brand new from. His craftsmanship is top notch, he tries to tweak designs rather than re-hash, and his fitting system is excellent. Hopefully his recent resurgence goes a little more national, but even if it doesn't, you can call him up directly and talk about the putter you want and he will make it.

The head shape I love the most is a Piretti Matera

 

Nobody has a similar shape that I see

 

Pretty sure the TP Mills Fleetwod pre-dates the Matera quite a bit.

+1. I also like the Matera and the Fleetwood, but the Fleetwood definitely came before the Piretti. The Matera may be somewhat heavier. I’d take either one!

My only experience with artisan putters was a failed attempt to buy a Mann Krafted putter a few years ago. After agreeing a spec with LaMont, he went quiet. Despite several more failed attempts to get him re-engaged I gave up, figuring he didn’t want my business. It left me feeling really underwhelmed by his lack of effort, and put me off looking at any other artisan brands. Given my experience, and the stories about Machine, it leads me to the conclusion that their unreliability makes them not worth the effort.

 

That said, there do seem to be good ones. A friend of mine has several Byron Morgan’s, and can’t speak highly enough of them.

I wish that I could say that this never happens, but that would be inaccurate. I promise that it is never a lack of desire to do the work.

That said, please do not let my inability to focus and earn your business keep you from sampling some of the work of guys like Byron Morgan, Lumpy at Xenon or Kari Lajosi. The putter world is amazing, right now, but I agree with the OP that many of the new guys are seeing $$$ and not an opportunity to learn a craft and bring back a lost art. As a consumer, you have some magnificent shots at getting a putter from someone on that list that LOVES the work, does it for reasons beyond the money and puts a piece of himself into every creation.

My sincere apologies for my failure to follow thru, but give one of the other guys a chance. You will be treated to a piece of work that you will never regret purchasing.

LaMont in AZ

Does it get any classier than this? NOPE !

IMHO, Just because you can place a chunk of steel into a CAD machine, pull the putter out, add some bling to it, it does not make you a putter maker!

The list of those who can take a hunk of steel and hand mill a putter from it is very, very short!

My only experience with artisan putters was a failed attempt to buy a Mann Krafted putter a few years ago. After agreeing a spec with LaMont, he went quiet. Despite several more failed attempts to get him re-engaged I gave up, figuring he didn’t want my business. It left me feeling really underwhelmed by his lack of effort, and put me off looking at any other artisan brands. Given my experience, and the stories about Machine, it leads me to the conclusion that their unreliability makes them not worth the effort.

 

That said, there do seem to be good ones. A friend of mine has several Byron Morgan’s, and can’t speak highly enough of them.

I wish that I could say that this never happens, but that would be inaccurate. I promise that it is never a lack of desire to do the work.

That said, please do not let my inability to focus and earn your business keep you from sampling some of the work of guys like Byron Morgan, Lumpy at Xenon or Kari Lajosi. The putter world is amazing, right now, but I agree with the OP that many of the new guys are seeing $$$ and not an opportunity to learn a craft and bring back a lost art. As a consumer, you have some magnificent shots at getting a putter from someone on that list that LOVES the work, does it for reasons beyond the money and puts a piece of himself into every creation.

My sincere apologies for my failure to follow thru, but give one of the other guys a chance. You will be treated to a piece of work that you will never regret purchasing.

LaMont in AZ

My observation is that there's some positive character traits that seem to be lacking in society overall these days. Being slow to anger, being quick to forgive, acknowledging failures/shortcomings and accepting feedback gracefully are among those that come to mind.

All that said, seeing this response from LaMont has really made my day.

The one maker that is under appreciated is Kari Lajosi. He is open to making anything the customer can come up with and even forges his own damascus!

He is easily the best bang for your buck in the industry and his putters are getting better all the time

I though some of Gene Nead's handmades were very out of the box and original. Wish he was doing more work, but it is his second job.

I understand that as a small business owner and with the quality of your work that your putters are in high demand and you only have so much time in a day. I just wish that you would take the time to write a 2 minute email or a 30 second phone call that states you're too busy and that you won't be able to do it. I have now sent more than 3 requests (2 emails and facebook) that have gone unresponded to. I took the time to fill out your request sheet and I feel that it's the least you can do to tell me that you can't do it. It's just common courtesy.

IMHO, Just because you can place a chunk of steel into a CAD machine, pull the putter out, add some bling to it, it does not make you a putter maker!

 

 

The list of those who can take a hunk of steel and hand mill a putter from it is very, very short!

Funny. Alot more to it than just placing a chunk of steel into a "cad" machine. CAD (computer aided design) would be the computer program used to generate the model and tool path to create said putter. A CNC (computer numerical control) is what you feed the tool path into that then controls the mill to machine said steel. I'm not saying everyone with a cnc is an artist. But dont belittle the craft the people who actually design,program and create products.

My only experience with artisan putters was a failed attempt to buy a Mann Krafted putter a few years ago. After agreeing a spec with LaMont, he went quiet. Despite several more failed attempts to get him re-engaged I gave up, figuring he didn’t want my business. It left me feeling really underwhelmed by his lack of effort, and put me off looking at any other artisan brands. Given my experience, and the stories about Machine, it leads me to the conclusion that their unreliability makes them not worth the effort.

 

That said, there do seem to be good ones. A friend of mine has several Byron Morgan’s, and can’t speak highly enough of them.

I can share my experience.

I was looking for a crafted copper putter. I wasn't 100% sure of all the details....length, loft, weight, shaft, grip etc. I essentially needed a bit of "hand-holding". I sent a few mails to a few folks. Lamont was one of them and as people post from time to time, I did not receive a response. I think much of the challenge is these guys are super busy......until recently the economy has been humming and they all probably have more work than they can fulfill anyway. My hunch is if I filled out a spec sheet, sketch and knew more what I wanted I would have moved up on their list because they could have simply "jumped to work" in a matter of speaking rather than an investment in time that possibly wouldn't pay a dividend for them in the end.

I ended up buying a Mannkrafted MA/66 putter online which I really enjoy but I still wanted one made just for me. I did get a response from another maker that was much in demand a few years back that had a left-over copper "blank" in his shop. He had a bit of time and was probably more able to "assist" me thru my own confusion and indecision. Ultimately is is a pretty unique putter crafted for me.

Anyway, I love both of my Artisan putters and will get one spec'd again in the near future. FYI, the copper putter artisan did not have their own head-covers any longer. I liked my retro-style Mannkrafted cover so much I bought one from a golf shop in AZ that displays his stuff.

Regards,

Bob

Tampa

What has happened, IMO, is that the primary boutique putter makers have become so popular (compared to their delivery times) that they have upped their price points and are still extremely busy.

This has created a market for more boutique putter makers that can produce putters with shorter delivery times and are less expensive. But, it's a cycle as that boutique maker becomes more popular and then they end up having slower delivery times and up their prices as well. So the market becomes flooded with boutique makers making the same type of putters and there is a lack of innovative putter models mainly because they don't sell and the typical designs from boutique makers do sell.

RH

I think it's great. I love all the different options and the fact that most of them are Made In The USA.

IMHO, Just because you can place a chunk of steel into a CAD machine, pull the putter out, add some bling to it, it does not make you a putter maker!

 

 

The list of those who can take a hunk of steel and hand mill a putter from it is very, very short!

Funny. Alot more to it than just placing a chunk of steel into a "cad" machine. CAD (computer aided design) would be the computer program used to generate the model and tool path to create said putter. A CNC (computer numerical control) is what you feed the tool path into that then controls the mill to machine said steel. I'm not saying everyone with a cnc is an artist. But dont belittle the craft the people who actually design,program and create products.

I think you read into my post, more that you should have.

I assume the person who enters the data into the machine (I am a former USAF air traffic controller, so I have ZERO CNC knowledge) i.e, writes the program and ensures the product is made to specs.

That person is the same as the maker who hand mills the putter,,,, now, I assume, you can have someone like me with ZERO CNC experience, place a chunk of steel into the cnc then take out a finished head and repeat the process.

What has happened, IMO, is that the primary boutique putter makers have become so popular (compared to their delivery times) that they have upped their price points and are still extremely busy.

 

This has created a market for more boutique putter makers that can produce putters with shorter delivery times and are less expensive. But, it's a cycle as that boutique maker becomes more popular and then they end up having slower delivery times and up their prices as well. So the market becomes flooded with boutique makers making the same type of putters and there is a lack of innovative putter models mainly because they don't sell and the typical designs from boutique makers do sell.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RH

I think this is true. A few of the new guys are approaching it in new ways and hitting different price points.