Does the “10 year putter” exist? Is there such a flat stick that will look, feel, and perform so well that you may never look for another one ever again? This is, of course, subjective to each individual but I can tell you that I have found one that can very well prove the theory. Today we look at the Whitlam Big Dog.
The Big Dog is a CNC milled mid-mallet made of 303 stainless steel and carbon steel. Running at a heavy 365 gram heel shafted head with a new milled face insert; this is a beautiful club that just begs to be taken out on the course to take a “bite” out of whatever putt you put in front of it.
Let’s get to those 3 questions you all want answered.
How does it look?
The Big Dog is a very stunning putter. I am a big fan of mid-mallets for their confidence-inducing look next to a golf ball. This putter is no different. The PVD finish gives a nice glossy look that doesn’t distract from the ball and really contrasts nicely when lining up.
The new milled insert in the Big Dog is what really stands out. With a milled pattern of the Whitlam “W” across the face, it really pops out and grabs your attention while still keeping a very classy look.
How does it feel?
The feel is a bit difficult to explain in detail. The heavy head is really nice but it almost feels a bit off. Then again, a heavy head on a toe-hang putter is something that definitely needs personal adjustment. I was able to adjust and really start getting the feel for the weight and balance after about 20-30 putts, so I would venture to say that this could also be indicative to the importance of getting fit to your specs.
The feel of the face is also one that I needed to get used to. Off-center hits from the toe and heel were actually quite forgiving and didn’t lose too much speed or direction. However, hits off the lower half of the face really felt “off” and can miss the insert causing a small “thud”-like feeling. A thinned impact felt a bit more fragile than other insert putters. This again can easily be fixed by getting the putter fitted to the loft that is best for your stroke. All miss hits aside, the insert feels great and very responsive. Sweet spot strikes make a great sound and make you feel all warm and tingly.
How does it perform?
The Big Dog is really a great performing putter. The amount of feel that you get from it is unreal. It very nearly acts as an extension of your limbs. Heel and toe miss hits compensate very nicely and still keep course with minimal dispersion. Optimal is really the only way to describe how well the Big Dog performs.
Conclusion
There are a lot of people that accuse Whitlam of making “boutique” putters. At first look of the Big Dog, you could conclude that it certainly looks “boutique” but beware of the outstanding performance that will blow that moniker away.
I had a great time reviewing the Big Dog. Whitlam keeps putting out really great products that deserve the same attention as Scotty Cameron and Robert Bettinardi. This putter is easily one that may be the last you ever buy.
As Always,
I’m Bruce McFarlane
“Stay Grassy”
Follow Bruce on twitter @ImRonBurgondy
