
Balance Certified Golf's Pro-Balance System for Putters |
Got
Balance?
David A. Dodson
Ever
wonder what the difference is between your clubs and the ones
the pros use? Most everyone would guess custom length fitting
is the major difference, but few take custom weight balancing
into consideration. With a few hundred thousand dollars riding
on every shot, do you think that the big boys gamble on clubs
with an off the rack feel? If you have custom fitted clubs, you're
really only halfway there, luckily for you the rocket scientists
at Balance Certified Golf have what it takes to get you the rest
of the way.
Balance
Certified Golf uses a system of counterweights that fit into the
shaft of almost any club: driver, wood, iron or putter. The theory
is that not everybody has the exact same swing, so no off the
rack club has the right balance for every user. The system puts
you through a series of tests that help you decide which weight
in which club is exactly right for you. The weight reduces shaft
vibration and moves the focal "node" of the club back
into the hands, resulting in more consistent striking and ball
control. And it's USGA and RA approved.
Sounds
neat, but does it work? If used properly, it really does. We tried
the Pro-Balance System for putters. It started with a simple test
where three balls were putted ten feet and the results were recorded
on a simple chart. Then the same test was repeated with each of
the weights installed. A pattern definitely emerged. Once the
right weight was found, a ten-foot put was nothing to fear. By
tuning the shaft, each shot felt more solid. And by moving the
weight focus up into the grip, the desire to break the wrist was
all but eliminated, resulting in predictable pendulum strokes
each and every time.

Installation is a Breeze
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The weights are also super easy to install. Simply
use the provided drill bit to open the end of the grip, slip
in the desired weight and tighten it down with the allen wrench
and tightening tool (also provided). The whole process takes
less than a minute. And since the weights are so readily interchangeable,
it's not much of an inconvenience to swap them out on the go
if course conditions call for more or less weight. My only complaint
is that I wish that the kit came with a solid black plug to
put in the grip for when you aren't using any weight. If you
have two or more putters that you like to rotate, it'd be nice
to have a cover or plug to keep moisture and bugs out of the
shafts of the clubs you aren't using.
All
in all, the Pro Balance System delivers what it promises. For
those looking to fine-tune their game, this is definitely a
step in the right direction. For about forty dollars, you can
pick up a single drop-in weight, or a set of three for seventy-five
dollars. To find a shop that offers custom balance fitting near
you, visit www.Balance-Certified.com.