A couple of years ago, Ping attempted to re-introduce themselves to the premium putter market with the long-awaited PLD Milled Putter Series. Today Ping are bolstering this tour-inspired, tour-proven line-up with five new models for 2024.
You can read our review of the original Anser, Anser 2, DS72 and Prime Tyne 4 models here from a fitting process we went through at Ping's European HQ.
You can watch via YouTube here also:
Ping say that the five new PLD Milled models "represent a combination of standard-setting favourites like the Anser and newer, tour-proved models like the DS72", which is the eye-catching choice of 2023 FedEx Cup Champion Viktor Hovland.
The Anser 2D and Oslo 3 are also tour-influenced, high-MOI designs and the Ally Blue 4 is a new, multi-material mallet that delivers exceptional forgiveness with "can’t-miss alignment features".
Be warned however, as to be expected when Ping introduce a new premium product to the market, these things aren't cheap - each of them with a UK RRP of £450.
However, for that money, you'll be pleased to know that there's plenty of craftsmanship going into designing each model. Four of the new models (Anser, Anser 2D, DS72 and Oslo 3) are fully machined from forged, 303 stainless steel and feature a gun-metal finish and the deep AMP (Aggressive Milling Pattern) face technology on all models is precisely milled for tour-preferred sound, feel and speed.
Ping say that more than four hours of milling time are required for every model, shaping every surface and radius to achieve the high quality and premium look that golfers expect in a precision-milled putter - especially when we're paying £450!
The all-new, Ally Blue 4 is a fully machined, three-piece standout design by its square footprint and full length, top alignment aid. The strong arc design consists of an aluminium body, stainless steel soleplate and aluminium hosel to create an extremely high MOI, easy to align mallet. The gunmetal finish contrasts with a matte black body and hosel to create an eye-catching, confidence-inspiring design.
“Part of our goal with the PLD programme is to offer our most popular models from the past and add new, tour-influenced designs on a regular basis. This year’s additions represent an exciting balance of that strategy. As we collaborate on new designs with our engineers and tour staff through the PLD programme, we’ll expand the line to ensure golfers have access to our newest technologies and processes.”
Ping CEO & President John K. Solheim
If you're looking to decide which of the new PLD Putters might be for you, here's a handy breakdown of each new model:
Ally Blue 4
All-new fully machined, three-piece design. The aluminium body, aluminium hosel and stainless-steel soleplate create a high MOI, easy-to-align mallet.
Anser
Do we need to say anymore? "The most iconic putter in golf history" this year gets a new white sight line in the cavity and the gunmetal finish. The new Ping Composite putter shaft is standard in this slight arc model.
Anser 2D
The Anser 2D model started to gain notoriety with Tony Finau’s on-tour success. The slightly deeper, perimeter-weighted design features clean heel-toe ballasts to aid in alignment, and a sightline in the cavity.
DS72
This is the one we've all seen Viktor Hovland using to great success over the last couple of years. This face-balanced model fits into the mid-mallet category and is distinguished by a wide top rail and ball-width cavity created by its clean heel and toe ballasts.
Oslo 3
This putter shares attributes of the Tyrrell Hatton-influenced mallet but with an Anser 3-style hosel that makes it a slight arc putter. Its light aluminium hosel helps golfers position weight low to optimise the centre of gravity for improved consistency and accuracy.
We're certainly excited by these five new models and can't wait to get our hands on them, keep your eyes on Golfalot for a review coming very soon!
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