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It's the most iconic shape of putter on the market. The Ping Anser has been going strong since the 1960s, but there has been. some subtle changes in recent years. We put a model from 2023 up against the brand-new option for 2024.
Fast forward 64 years to 2024 and the Ping Anser model is still going strong. There have been slight modifications to the model in the last couple of years with the 2023 Ping Anser 2D and the now new 2024 Ping Anser D with slightly larger shapes.
The question is, how do the compare with one another?
We put them head-to-head to see which one performs the best...
PROS
- Tungsten toe and heel weights deliver more stability
- PEBAX insert delivers a soft feel off the face
- All black finish frames the ball nicely at address and is easy to line up your putts
CONS
- All black finish might not be for everyone
As far as looks go this all black finish, to my eye, is a stunner. You really can't go wrong with a colour scheme like this.
Played by Tony Finau, this all-black head has a ball-width cavity and single white alignment aid to get you lined up and that ball rolling on your target line. The toe and heel are fitted with tungsten weights, which deliver more stability and forgiveness. This will help improve accuracy and performance on those mishit putts. When it comes to the insert a PEBAX insert design delivers a soft feel which is surrounded by a Shallow Milled Face, that delivers consistent ball speed and great acoustics.
Overall, this is a fantastic option from Ping that, really, is hard to fault. But how does it compare to the most recent Anser model?
PROS
- Milled putter face is firm in feel but the ball still comes off softly
- Deeper (“D”) profile is a hybrid between the Anser blade and a mallet design for maximum forgiveness
- A new glare-diffusing raw blast finish reduces glare
CONS
- Might be too firm for some
The Ping Anser D is a great looking putter with a new raw blast finish, which reduces glare.
This putter is designed using a 17-4 stainless steel with heel-toe weighting that provides stability and forgiveness throughout. Tour pros were consulted in creating this model with a deeper (“D”) profile as a hybrid between the Anser blade and a mallet design. The result of this extra mass is a putter that is extremely stable, without being too bulky and losing the appeal of what an Anser is all about. This putter has a shallow milled face to ensure a consistent roll and a firmer response from the milled face.
Once again, it's an excellent option from Ping. But, am I picking the option from 2023, or the brand-new putter from 2024?
Conclusion
These putters are both amazing. To be honest, it comes down to two things: looks and feel.
I'm a big fan of the all black finish of the Ping Anser 2D. It sits great behind the ball and is great on the eye. The weighting and balance of the putter is brilliant and the feel from the PEBAX insert is soft and crisp.
The Ping Anser D comes with a firmer feel. The shallow milled face has a nice, crisp sound, but the ball still rolls smoothly at impact. You're not going to get putts flying off at great speed if you don't want them to. It’s a great looking putter with the new raw blast finish and it is easy to line the ball up with.
Both putters are well balanced, feel great, look great and if you’re looking for forgiveness in a blade putter shape these are definitely worth looking at.
If you want a softer feel, go for the Ping Anser 2D, the 2023 model. If you want that slightly firmer feel the Ping Anser D is a great option.
Personally, I tend to play on greens that are pretty fast, so I would probably opt for the Ping Anser 2D, the 2023 model. But, as I say, it's all down to personal preference. It's a tough choice, and you won't be disappointed with either of the models.
If you want more from us, why not head to our YouTube channel? It’s the best place to find out how the latest new golf gear performs, along with some other fun stuff.
How we picked
Performance Consistency
We meticulously evaluated each piece of equipment's performance across a number of variables.
Forgiveness and Playability
With golf clubs, our assessment always considered the versatility and forgiveness levels, especially on off-centre strikes.
Innovative Technology
We scrutinise the incorporation of innovative technology in each piece of equipment we review.
Customisation
We consider factors like adjustable features and customisation options available to the buyer.
ALL ABOUT THE OPEN
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