The Odyssey Black Series consists of 3 putter head designs all of which take advantage of the design and technology features developed for this product line.
One feature used on all three models is a tungsten flange at the back of the putter head. This flange adds weight to the rear of the putter head and creates a low CG (center of gravity) which is deep in the club face. This feature helps to lift the ball slightly upon impact and get it rolling quicker. Since the golf ball actually is slightly nestled down into the grass of the putting green, hitting the putt initially with an upward angle helps get the ball rolling. In fact there is a short video on the Odyssey Black Series web site that shows a comparison between these clubs and another allegedly typical putter. The Black Series putter got the ball rolling about 1 ½ inches before the other putter did. Working in conjunction with the placement of the CG is the loft of the putter face. Each of the putter heads in the line, which are simply called Black Series no. 1, no. 2, and no. 3, have a different loft angle of the putter face which is optimized to get the quickest roll possible for the given CG location of each particular putter head. The theory is that the sooner the ball stops skidding after impact and begins a true roll, the more accurate the putt will be, and this certainly makes sense. It should also be noted that the weighted flange helps to create a higher MOI as well, and this provides some forgiveness for putts not hit exactly on the “sweet spot” of the putter face.
These putters are certainly top of the line and carry a retail price tag of $249 each. Black Series no. 1 putter has a rounded heel-toe weighted putter blade with a so called “crank-neck” hosel and a one shaft offset. The crank neck simply means that the offset is achieved by moving the shaft forward at 90 degree angles instead of a gradual bending of the hosel or shaft. The Black Series no. 2 putter has the same features but is more squared-off in appearance. Black Series model no. 3 is a mallet style putter with a double bend shaft that gives the same full-shaft offset.
The putter head is made of 1025 carbon steel and features a mix-milled face design which indicates the proper impact area. In other words the face has two different mill patterns on it. There is also a urethane damping layer between the flange and the milled carbon steel head that dampens vibrations.
The three traditional shaped heads of the Odyssey Back Series golf putters offer an interesting alternative for the serious golfer who prefers a traditional type of look and who can afford to spend $249 on his putter. They are certainly worth a look.