I switched to the Newport Notchback with the Aluminum insert from a solid milled face. For me, it was all about the softer feel. I've noticed that I like the insert putter for shorter putts and the solid milled for lag putting. Either way, you can't go wrong with a Scotty!

Hi Mike,

In my opinion the most important factor is the NECK i.e. Plum neck or Flow neck etc and how you address a putt i.e. distance from the ball....Plum for a more straight back and through stroke (eyes over the ball) and Flow neck for an arched stroke (eyes inside the ball). I stand further from the ball than most so the 1.5/2.5 Flow neck works best for me as the neck allows the toe to square-up at contact. That said if you have a OTR (off the rack) putter with weights underneath you can always have heavier weights in the heel or toe depending on your bias to pull or push a putt. Regarding inserts, some older putters have a 'copper' insert which is a softer feeling contact and i've found these good for fast greens whereas the modern putters have SSS or GSS inserts which are good all-round putters.

I think the ball covering has a lot to do with it as well. A softer cover Pro V will feel / sound softer off of the putter which may explain pros using solid face putters. Harder distance balls may feel / sound better off of a softer insert face. I have been using a TeI3 button back since 2008. I occasionally use other putter with solid faces or different inserts but i prefer my buttonback.