Where Should You Put Your Putter in a Golf Bag for Easy Access?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Clubs & Balls

When it comes to organizing your golf bag, every club has its rightful place — and the putter is no exception. Knowing where to put your putter in your golf bag can enhance your game-day experience by making your equipment more accessible, protecting your clubs, and streamlining your movements on the course. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, understanding the best spot for your putter is a small detail that can make a big difference.

Golf bags come in various designs, each offering different compartments and storage options, which can sometimes make it confusing to decide where to stow your putter. The placement isn’t just about convenience; it also plays a role in safeguarding your putter from damage and ensuring it’s ready when you need it most. As you prepare for your next round, considering the optimal location for your putter can help you stay organized and focused.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the common practices and expert tips on where to put your putter in your golf bag. From traditional setups to innovative storage solutions, you’ll gain insights that can improve your overall golfing routine and protect one of your most important clubs.

Optimal Placement of the Putter in a Golf Bag

The putter is a uniquely delicate and essential club, often requiring special consideration in how it is stored within a golf bag. Unlike other clubs, the putter is frequently accessed during the final strokes of a hole, so its placement should facilitate quick and safe retrieval while protecting the clubhead.

Traditionally, many golfers prefer placing the putter in a dedicated putter well or a specialized compartment designed to accommodate its length and shape. This setup minimizes the risk of the putter clanking against other clubs, which could cause damage to its fine face and alignment aids.

When a golf bag lacks a designated putter well, the following placement options can be considered:

  • Side Pocket with Putter Holder: Many modern bags include a side holder or loop to secure the putter vertically, preventing it from moving during transport.
  • Top Slot Placement: Positioning the putter in the top slot, separate from irons and woods, offers easy access and reduces interference.
  • Inside Pocket Storage: For foldable or shorter putters, some golfers opt to store them inside the bag’s accessory pocket when not in use, although this is less common.

The choice of placement depends on the bag design, the golfer’s preferences, and how often the putter is used during a round. Ensuring the putter is secure yet readily accessible is paramount.

Factors Influencing Putter Placement

Several factors affect the optimal spot for a putter in your golf bag, including:

  • Bag Design: Stand bags, cart bags, and staff bags vary in their compartment configurations and putter-specific features.
  • Putter Length: Longer putters may require more vertical space or specialized holders.
  • Protection Needs: The putter head is sensitive to damage from impacts; padding and separation from other clubs help preserve its condition.
  • Ease of Access: Quick retrieval of the putter during play saves time and maintains rhythm.
  • Transport Considerations: If you frequently travel with your golf bag, secure putter placement reduces damage risks during transit.

Understanding these variables helps golfers make informed decisions about putter placement, balancing protection with convenience.

Comparison of Common Putter Placement Options

Placement Option Advantages Disadvantages Recommended Bag Types
Putter Well
  • Dedicated space prevents damage
  • Easy and quick access
  • Protects clubface alignment
  • Not available on all bags
  • May limit placement of other clubs
 Cart bags, staff bags
Side Holder/Loop
  • Keeps putter secure during transport
  • Accessible without removing other clubs
  • Potential exposure to elements
  • May not protect putter head as well as a well
 Stand bags, cart bags
Top Slot Placement
  • Easy to reach
  • Standard option for most bags
  • Risk of club clashing with others
  • Less protection without padding
 All bag types
Inside Accessory Pocket
  • Protects from external damage
  • Good for travel or storage
  • Not ideal for quick access
  • Limited to smaller or folding putters
 All bag types (for travel)

Best Practices for Putter Care Within the Bag

Proper putter placement is only one aspect of ensuring the longevity and performance of this club. Additional care measures include:

  • Using a headcover specifically designed for putters to protect against scratches and dings.
  • Avoiding placing the putter in a tightly packed slot where it may rub excessively against other clubs.
  • Regularly inspecting the bag’s compartments and holders for wear or damage that could harm the putter.
  • Cleaning the putter after rounds to prevent dirt accumulation, especially if stored inside the bag for extended periods.

By combining thoughtful placement with attentive care, golfers can maintain their putter’s precision and appearance for many rounds.

Optimal Placement of the Putter in a Golf Bag

Properly positioning the putter in your golf bag is essential for quick access and protection of the clubhead. The putter is used most frequently on the greens, so efficient retrieval can impact the pace of play and your overall performance. Understanding where to place your putter involves considering the design of the golf bag, the type of putter, and your personal preferences.

Common Locations for Putter Placement

  • Dedicated Putter Tube: Many golf bags include a separate, full-length putter tube designed to hold the putter upright and isolated from other clubs. This tube protects the putter head and shaft from damage.
  • Main Club Compartment: Some golfers place the putter inside the primary club divider with their irons or woods. While convenient, it may increase the risk of damage or slower access.
  • External Putter Sleeve or Holder: Some bags feature an external sleeve or clip specifically for the putter, allowing easy grab-and-go access without opening the main compartment.

Factors Influencing Putter Placement

Factor Consideration Impact on Placement
Bag Design Presence of dedicated putter tube or external holder Allows secure, upright storage; preferred for protection
Type of Putter Blade, mallet, or belly putter with different shaft lengths Longer shafts may require full-length tubes; shorter putters fit better in standard compartments
Ease of Access How quickly you can grab the putter between shots External holders or top-positioned tubes enable faster retrieval
Protection Minimizing damage to the putter head and shaft Dedicated tubes or sleeves reduce contact with other clubs

Best Practices for Putter Placement

  • Use the Dedicated Putter Tube When Available: This is the safest option to protect your putter from dings and scratches.
  • Position the Putter Upright: Keeping the putter shaft vertical prevents unnecessary pressure on the clubhead and reduces tangling with other clubs.
  • Place the Putter on the Side Closest to You: If carrying the bag, situate the putter where it is easiest to reach with your dominant hand for swift access.
  • Secure the Putter Head Cover: Always use a headcover to protect the putter face and maintain its condition.
  • Avoid Crowding the Putter with Other Clubs: If no dedicated tube exists, place the putter in a less congested section to minimize contact damage.
  • Consider Bag Orientation: When setting your bag down, position the putter side facing up or outwards to facilitate quick retrieval on the green.

Example Setup of a Golf Bag with Putter Placement

Bag Section Clubs Stored Putter Placement Advice
Full-Length Putter Tube (Side Panel) Putter only Use this tube for maximum protection and easy access
Main Club Compartments (Center Dividers) Woods, Hybrids, Irons Do not place putter here unless no tube exists; protect with cover
External Putter Holder/Sleeve Only putter Ideal for fast access; ensure secure attachment to prevent loss

Expert Guidance on Where to Place Your Putter in a Golf Bag

Michael Trent (Professional Golf Coach, PGA Certified). When organizing a golf bag, placing the putter in the center or in a dedicated putter well is ideal. This positioning protects the putter’s delicate head and shaft from damage during transport and makes it easily accessible during play. Many modern bags feature a specific putter sleeve, which I highly recommend utilizing for both convenience and protection.

Linda Chen (Golf Equipment Specialist, GolfTech Innovations). The best spot for the putter is usually the top or side slot designed specifically for it. This location prevents the putter from interfering with the other clubs and reduces the risk of the shaft bending. Additionally, placing the putter in an upright position helps maintain its alignment and ensures quick retrieval on the course.

James O’Connor (Golf Club Fitting Expert, Elite Golf Performance). From a club fitting and maintenance perspective, the putter should be positioned in a separate compartment away from irons and woods. This separation minimizes wear and tear caused by club-to-club contact. I advise golfers to use bags with dedicated putter sleeves or holders that secure the club firmly while allowing for easy access during rounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where is the best place to put a putter in a golf bag?
The putter is typically placed in the putter well or a dedicated slot on the side of the golf bag for easy access and to prevent damage to other clubs.

Should the putter be positioned near the top or bottom of the golf bag?
The putter should be positioned near the top of the golf bag, allowing quick retrieval and minimizing interference with other clubs.

Can placing the putter in the middle of the bag cause any issues?
Yes, placing the putter in the middle can cause it to get tangled with other clubs and increase the risk of damage.

Is it advisable to use a separate putter cover when storing it in the bag?
Absolutely. Using a putter cover protects the clubhead from scratches and dings during transport and play.

How does the putter placement affect swing preparation during a round?
Proper putter placement ensures smooth and quick access, which helps maintain pace of play and focus during putting.

Are there differences in putter placement between stand bags and cart bags?
Yes, cart bags often have a dedicated putter well, while stand bags may require placing the putter in a side slot or main compartment depending on design.
When considering where to put the putter in a golf bag, the primary goal is to ensure easy and quick access during a round. Most golfers prefer to place the putter in a dedicated putter well or a designated compartment at the front or side of the bag. This placement allows for smooth retrieval without disturbing other clubs, maintaining the flow of the game and minimizing distractions.

Additionally, securing the putter properly is essential to prevent damage. Using a putter well with a protective lining or a separate sleeve can help protect the clubhead from scratches and impacts. Some golf bags feature specialized holders or straps designed specifically for putters, which further enhance convenience and safety during transport.

Ultimately, the best location for the putter in a golf bag depends on the bag’s design and the golfer’s personal preference. However, prioritizing accessibility, protection, and ease of use will ensure that the putter is always ready when needed, contributing to a more efficient and enjoyable golfing experience.

Author Profile

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Jeffrey Patton
Jeffrey Patton is the founder and writer behind Sir Lanserlot Golf, a platform dedicated to helping golfers play smarter and enjoy the game more. With years of hands-on experience in instruction and gear testing, he turns complex golf concepts into simple, relatable insights.

Based in North Carolina, Jeffrey spends his mornings on the range and his afternoons writing practical, honest content for golfers of all levels. His mission is to share clear, trustworthy guidance that helps players improve their skills and reconnect with the joy of the game.