Now, we clearly see a major rush of good and great players to the longer putters. Based on the results of tournament winners over the past year, it is easy to see why…But, did you know that not one US winner in 2012 is using a long putter! Three tournaments, and the winners are using “regular” putters. So, what are they doing?

It’s all about keeping the lead arm wrist (left wrist for right handers, and vice versa) from breaking down or collapsing. Mark Wilson who just won at the Humana at PGA West uses an old fashion left hand low grip, and keeps his entire left arm pretty straight. Keeping the entire left arm straight, allows him to swing that arm back and through, and thus maintain a solid left wrist – in essence the wrist does not break. His right arm is more of a guide, and is just along for the ride.

In the case of Steve Stricker, he uses a traditional grip, but carries the putter grip in the lifeline of his hand, and thus it points up his forearm. It is almost as if the putter is an extension of his forearm. This allows him to keep his wrist from breaking down, and actually looks like he drives the back of his left wrist toward the hole. This is more along the line of what Stockton has been teaching McIlroy – drive the left wrist to the hole.

Johnson Wagner is similar to Stricker, but the grip/handle is not as directly pointed up his forearm. Nevertheless, he keeps the back of the left wrist firm through the stroke…However, did you see his final putt at the Sony – two foot gimme? His wrist broke down and he almost missed it.

Keep the lead wrist from breaking down, and drive it toward the hole for solid putting!

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