In 2019, one of the coolest parts of the golf world is the plethora of different ways you can accentuate your personality with cool golf swag. One of the most dynamic ways to do this is through a custom finished putter. I have spent the last six months (and about $1,000!) to make sure you get the best outcome for your money.

Intrigued? Good, here’s what you need to know…

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This one is heading home to @tyden_wilson . . . . #norcalputters #custom #putters #california #flare #theartofputting #golf #cnc #black #lefty #blue

A post shared by Norcal Putters (@norcalputters) on Aug 29, 2019 at 1:03pm PDT

Putter refinishing 101

• Stamping is done by hand and therefore never perfectly symmetrical
• Keep in mind there are certain things that cannot be fixed
• Have high expectations: with the right putter, these companies can transform your putter back to 9.99/10.
• Although each and every website has clear pictures, in my opinion the pictures are not perfect, particularly the black oxide/whisky/fuel finishes. It’s a little lighter than I expected and wears significantly more than black
• Sightlines can be a great addition to a putter, but remember, they cannot be removed!

The process

Over 25 years in golf has left me with a healthy collection of Scotty Cameron putters. When I was given an ultimatum to reduce my collection, I decided to take a unique approach: I would have several the old putters refinished. Armed with seven putters in approximately the same condition and the internet, I found seven different companies who offer a refinishing service. Each company cost between $125 and $129. I completed each of their questionnaires and sent them off, anxiously awaiting the results.

The results

One of the most important takeaways from this experiment is that NOT all refinishers are equal. In fact, the results were very binary: three of the companies did outstanding work, while four of the companies return a product which (in my opinion) was completely unacceptable.

Instead of “outing” the terrible work, I have decided to highlight the three companies which produced outstanding work: LabWorx (Waco, TX), Putter Lounge (Denver, Co) and NorCal Putters (Auburn, CA). Each of these companies returned work that was “nearly” new; removed dings, clean paint lines and held very closely to their estimate times.

Here is a Newport done by LabWorx (Waco) in their special “Armor” (more about this below). The finish is clean. All nicks and dents have been removed. It is basically new and looks amazing:

LabWorx “Armor”

LabWorx in Waco, TX deserves special note based on their R&D development of what they call “Armor”: a specially developed coating which does not impact feel but is extremely durable. The putter that I have, done in this coating has no glare and after almost eight months of play, shows no effects.

Not Just for Scotties

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Trending at the shop – the DJ T sight line

A post shared by Putter Lounge (@putterlounge) on Mar 8, 2018 at 9:30am PST

While I had only Scotty Camerons refinished, it is important that you understand that many different putters can be finished. According to Terri at Putter Lounge, “we have a lot of request for a number of different styles of putters, beyond Scotty Camerons, including a lot of Taylor Made Spiders.”

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A post shared by Putter Lounge (@putterlounge) on Sep 25, 2017 at 2:11pm PDT

A total transformation that is completely custom for the very reasonable price of $129!

Getting your putter done

If you are looking to get your putter refinished, the first step is to have a clear idea of EXACTLY what you want. Next, I would recommend reaching out to a couple of companies (again, I highly recommend these three based on their work) and ask about wait times. Keep in mind that they can range from a couple of weeks to several months, with wait times increasing in the summer. After selecting the company, you want to go to their website and fill out the questionnaire about your putter; telling them exactly what you want. Send the putter, along with the form, and get ready to impress your friends!

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An honor to do this branded project for the global CEO of @kfc and let our creativity run with all elements including a framed wall mount. #kfc __________________________________ #labworxgolf #labworx #lbwrx #miyo #makeityourown #bestingolf #golf #putter #scottycameron #titleist #taylormadegolf #pinggolf #callawaygolf #nikegolf #odysseygolf #pxg #evnroll #pgatour #pga #lpgatour #lpga #mygolfspy #golfwrx #golfheadz #golfheads #golfwannahaves #texasmade #golfchannel #golfdigest

A post shared by LABWORX GOLF (@labworxgolf) on Jan 19, 2019 at 11:37am PST

Want to learn more?

LabWorx

• Instagram
• Website

NorCal Putters

• Instagram
• Website

Putter Lounge

• Instagram
• Website