A double bend hosel is a specific type of connection between the shaft and clubhead in a golf putter. It is called “double bend” because the shaft has two distinct bends in its profile, which allows it to align with the center of the clubhead. This design minimizes the offset between the shaft and the clubhead, making it ideal for golfers who have a straight-back, straight-through putting stroke.
When you look at a putter with a double bend hosel, you will notice that the shaft is inserted directly into the clubhead at a slight angle. This angle is typically around 70 degrees, although it can vary depending on the specific putter model. The first bend in the shaft occurs near the hosel, angling the shaft toward the player’s hands. The second bend then brings the shaft back in line with the clubhead, creating a straight connection.
The purpose of the double bend hosel is to align the shaft axis with the center of the clubhead. This alignment helps golfers achieve a more consistent and accurate putting stroke. Since the shaft is straighter and more in line with the clubhead, there is less interference or manipulation of the clubface during the stroke.
One of the key benefits of the double bend hosel is its suitability for golfers with a straight-back, straight-through putting stroke. This type of stroke is characterized by minimal rotation of the wrists and a more pendulum-like motion. The double bend hosel promotes this type of stroke by keeping the shaft aligned with the intended path of the putt.
In my personal experience, I have found the double bend hosel to be effective in improving my putting consistency. As a golfer with a straight-back, straight-through stroke, I have struggled with putters that have excessive offset or hosel design that doesn’t suit my stroke. However, when I switched to a putter with a double bend hosel, I noticed a significant improvement in my ability to consistently strike the ball on the intended line.
It is important to note that the double bend hosel may not be suitable for all golfers. Golfers with a more arcing stroke, where the putter swings inside-to-square-to-inside, may find other hosel designs, such as a plumber’s neck or a flow neck, to be more suitable for their stroke. Therefore, it is essential for golfers to consider their putting stroke characteristics and seek professional advice when selecting a putter with the right hosel design.
To summarize, a double bend hosel is a type of putter hosel design that features two distinct bends in the shaft profile. This design aligns the shaft axis with the center of the clubhead, reducing offset and promoting a straight-back, straight-through putting stroke. While it is beneficial for golfers with this particular stroke, it may not be suitable for those with an arcing stroke. Ultimately, choosing the right hosel design depends on a golfer’s individual stroke characteristics and personal preference.