T-Squared TS-1104 Putter Review: Craftsmanship Meets Performance

Introduction: The Gem from Upstate New York

When you’re talking golf putters these days, it seems like each brand is trying to outdo the other with flashy tech and marketing gimmicks. Enter T-Squared Putters, a family-owned business nestled in a machine shop south of Buffalo, NY. Founded by Tony Tuber and his father, they’ve carved out a niche for themselves by focusing on craftsmanship and a personal touch. With a wide range of models, including the TS-1104, they offer golfers the opportunity to own something truly special.

A Sleek Look That’s Got Style

Let’s talk design first. The T-Squared TS-1104 has a minimalist aesthetic that caught my eye right away. It sports a satin black body with chrome screws that pop against the darker finish. Some might think it looks "cheap," but I totally appreciated the clean lines. It resembles those high-end mallets you see from brands like Scotty Cameron or Toulon but with its own flair. The fangs on the TS-1104 give it a unique appearance that stands out without being gaudy.

Technology Behind the Design

The hosel features a flow neck design that’s engineered to create about 30° of toe hang. Tony Tuber, the man behind the magic, claims they can balance toe-hang and face balance across all their putters without compromising essential specs. While testing it out, I found that it sat beautifully behind the ball and swung with a fantastic sense of balance throughout my stroke. It’s clear this putter has some serious thought put into its craftsmanship.

Customization Options That Impress

Now, if you think customization is just a gimmick, T-Squared proves otherwise. Even for stock models, you can tinker with head colors, neck colors, and alignment aids. I chose the dual alignment system, which includes a line on both the head and the flange. I was a bit concerned that it might make me overthink my mechanics, but instead, it gave me confidence. Lining it up correctly let me focus more on my stroke than worrying about how I was set up.

Feel: Not What I Expected

Honestly, I thought the TS-1104 would have a softer feel because of the deep milling on its 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum insert. It certainly wasn’t a harsh experience, but I expected it to be silkier. The sound off the face—let’s just say it took me by surprise. Rather than a muted thwack, it delivered a louder, "tinny" sound reminiscent of a classic Ping Answer—definitely not what I anticipated.

Pace Control: A Love-Hate Relationship

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. I’ve always been a fan of milled putters—whether I’m rolling with a mallet or a blade. But I found myself struggling a bit with pace control using the TS-1104. This could be due to its more pronounced feel and sound. Plus, I tested it with a Flat-Cat grip that might’ve been a little too robust for my taste. While I initially struggled, I can see how with some practice, this setup might help me find my groove.

Grip Matters

Speaking of grips, let’s focus on that Flat-Cat design. While it felt solid in my hands, I couldn’t shake the thought that I was losing some feedback on my putts. Traditionally, I opt for a standard pistol grip, and the Flat-Cat felt like a departure. However, I noticed that it lent itself well to alignment, especially on shorter putts. Inside 8 feet, I was nearly unstoppable. The dual alignment systems really came into play here, making it easy to aim at my target with confidence.

Set-Up Scenarios

One quirks of the dual alignment system stood out: on severe slopes, the lines sometimes didn’t match up well, which made me second-guess my aim. But on flat surfaces, it worked like a charm. As with everything in golf, you learn to adapt, and after a few rounds, I’m getting a better handle on when to trust it and when to just go with my gut.

Overall Impressions: Worthy of Its Price Tag

Overall, my experience with the T-Squared TS-1104 was positive. It boasts lovely aesthetics, impressive balance, and intricate design features that reflect the labor of love put into making these putters. While I wouldn’t put it right at the top of the heap when compared to premium brands regarding sound and feel, you can’t deny the craftsmanship. When you hold one, you can feel the quality.

The Bottom Line

With a price tag of $499, the TS-1104 isn’t exactly pocket change. You definitely want to be sure about your color choices, alignment preferences, and whether you prefer a firmer feel when rolling your putts. Still, if you’re in the market for a meticulously crafted putter that stands out for all the right reasons, the T-Squared TS-1104 is definitely worth considering. It might just be the putter that helps elevate your game to the next level.

So, if you’re ready to take your putting to the next level and appreciate the artistry behind performance, why not check out the T-Squared TS-1104? Craftsmanship, customization, and style could be just what you need to sharpen your skills and add some flair to your game. Happy putting!