Wilson Infinite Bucktown Putter Review
Joel Tadman tests this affordable mallet option from Wilson to see if the performance exceeded expectations
For under £150, this user friendly mallet putter is a really cost effective option for golfers of all abilities needing some assistance on the greens that prefer a firmer feel.
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Solid, stable feel
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Ample alignment help
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Decent forgiveness
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Firm feel won't please all
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Wilson’s hardware is underrated in quite a few categories but arguably the putter sector is where it offers the best value for money, especially with its more entry level Infinite range - which has been revamped for 2024 with nine new models.
Where the Staff Model putters have been designed to offer the more discerning golfer a more premium look and feel, the Infinite line up is geared more at the casual player. The first impressions of the Bucktown mallet putter we tried were very good. The oversize stock Pistol Karakal flat-sided grip is very large, which felt comfortable in our hands and while it could have been a touch softer, it certainly helped quieten down any unwanted wrist action during the stroke. I don't enjoy the ribbed feeling down the spine of the grip, but for some this well help with consistent hand placement.
Down at address, the fang-shape frames the ball nicely and it sits very low to the ground flush to the grass. The three short white lines contrast vividly with the black head to assist with alignment. Interestingly, the middle of the three lines is slightly thicker, which helps center the ball on the face at address and return it there to impact. It’s not a visual package that will work for everyone, but we found it easy to set the putter square to our target consistently. The two-tone PVD anti-glare finish certainly creates a visually-appealing look that adds to the premium feel.
Off the face, this putter has a solid, stable feel - like all of the best putters offer. There is a subtle double mill pattern on the face but the acoustics overall are quite noticeable, especially on longer putts. This firm sensation would marry well with a soft, low compression golf ball and the ball speed was quick and consistent - ideal for slower greens. There’s undoubtedly plenty of help at hand when the strike pattern moves around, which will music to the ears of the mid-to-high handicapper this putter is almost certainly aimed at.
Overall this putter feels very well balanced and I putted surprisingly well with it given I am not used to using face-balanced putters. I think it is from long range that golfers will see the benefits of this type of putter. While the three sightlines wouldn't be my preference (I find them a little distracting), for others it could be a very powerful system that certainly helps golfers set the face square and see the path of their stroke more clearly.
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Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 14 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all equipment and video content at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader or viewer find exactly what they are looking for.
One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 2.8.
Joel's current What's In The Bag?
Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9°, Fujikura Ventus Black 6 S shaft.
Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15°
Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18°
Irons: Titleist T150, 4-PW
Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM10, 50°, 54° and 58°
Putter: LAB Golf DF3
Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x
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