In a previous post, I shared a field review of the PXG Zero Torque Putter "Allen." As promised, today, I will discuss the second release in the PXG Zero Torque series, the "Batattack ZT (Zero Torque)."
The Batattack model, which features a basic mallet shape, is one of the best-selling putters in the PXG lineup. I used the previous Battle Ready version for quite some time, so I was curious about the changes made to this new model.
Aside from the popularity of the newly applied Zero Torque system, the Batattack ZT has undergone several upgrades. For starters, the head now features a one-piece design made from precisely milled "303 stainless steel," unlike the previous model, which had a two-piece structure with different materials for the face and rear wings.
The weight position has also shifted forward. Although the new Batattack Zero Torque (shown in the right photo) appears to have a lighter head, the actual weight balance seems to be quite similar. PXG injected a lightweight polymer material called "S COR" into the hollow structure of the face, providing a soft feel and vibration dampening.
In fact, this polymer core technology had already been applied to most PXG putters, including the Allen. However, two noteworthy aspects of the new Batattack ZT putter stand out.
First, the thinner face, measuring "0.055 inches," combined with the S-COR polymer, enhances the soft feel and vibration dampening while improving the putter's natural performance with a pyramid pattern that provides optimal roll and touch when hitting the ball.
The second highlight is the Zero Torque system. This technology positions the center of gravity directly below the shaft axis to minimize head rotation during the putting stroke. As a result, the alignment of the head becomes easier, allowing for a straighter stroke.
What does this all mean? It can be a bit complex, right?
Typically, blade-type or straight putters struggle to send the ball straight but are known for better distance control. In contrast, larger mallet putters tend to excel in straightness but may not control distance as effectively. This general consensus highlights the sensitivity of clubs, as different head shapes, necks, and hosels can create significant differences in performance. However, with advancements in technology, many brands now offer high-quality clubs, enabling even top-tier PGA Tour players to achieve excellent results using larger, square mallet-style putters like Allen.
The trend in golf clubs, including putters, has shifted towards preferring easy, comfortable, and consistent performance. Therefore, it has become challenging to declare one putter shape as superior to another. Ultimately, personal preference and selecting a style that suits you best are what matter.
Additionally, the Zero Torque system adds an extra layer of consideration. A notable feature is the unique shape of the neck hosel, which creates an illusion that the shaft is inserted at the center.
In reality, it resembles a typical plumber neck hosel but lacks offset, and the shaft points directly at the head's center. This design is often referred to as a face-balanced putter or center shaft.
Photo source: Google
This type of design certainly reduces torque during the putting stroke. However, if you don't practice sufficiently on the greens, controlling the putter can become quite challenging. The setup offers high intuitiveness for ball touch, leading to mixed opinions.
Nevertheless, the center shaft design optimizes the ability to send the ball straight. The PXG Zero Torque putter series achieves central balance like a center shaft but utilizes a comfortable S-hosel design.
This design allows for a surprisingly comfortable putting setup in the field. I typically had a slight hand-forward habit while putting, and with the PXG Batattack ZT, I found it easy to maintain a natural forward stroke.
It's also crucial to focus on the grip. At first glance, it may seem like a standard thick grip that reduces wrist movement. However, upon closer inspection, you can notice the difference in the angle at which the shaft is inserted. This specialized grip facilitates a natural forward press, allowing for a hand-forward stroke that helps send the ball straighter.
You will notice that the ball travels straight. Of course, you still need to consider the slope of the green, but because of the putter's excellent roll and straightness, you can be more relaxed about the line you see and still achieve a high success rate.
As you may know, many public golf courses feature irregular lines that are often hard to see, making it more challenging to achieve a one-putt finish compared to higher-end private courses.
In these green conditions, the speed is often slower, or the greens may be compacted with sand, so hitting the ball firmly to ensure it rolls past the hole can be effective.
The role of the putter head and face becomes crucial on such challenging greens. While experienced golfers with solid putting strokes can successfully roll the ball, most amateur golfers tend to simply strike the ball. The PXG pyramid pattern face promotes a soft touch and natural roll, significantly improving straightness.
Putting on the green is akin to rolling a ball on a billiard table. There is a distinct difference between simply striking the center of the ball versus giving it a slight top spin to roll it.
The same principle applies to putting. The quality of the putter can greatly influence how well the ball rolls. Even if you think you can hit the ball straight, the results can vary significantly based on your technique. The same goes for the green.
When you simply strike the ball, you can easily be affected by the invisible lines on the green, leading to inconsistent direction and occasional bounces. However, when you roll the ball, you can achieve better straightness, allowing you to ignore subtle lines and still send the ball straight.
The soft touch and straightness provided by the PXG putters have always been their strengths, and with the Zero Torque system applied to the Batattack ZT and Allen putters, the ability to send the ball straight has become even more pronounced.
When I used the Allen putter, I found my putting experience to be quite satisfying, and the Batattack ZT also clearly demonstrates the Zero Torque effect in sending the head straight. The main difference between the two models is that the Allen feels a bit heavier at impact, while the Batattack offers a slightly lighter touch.
That's all for the review!
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