Best Putter Buys for 2012

For less than half the price of a trendy $400 driver that you'll swing approximately 12 times per round, you can get a sweet new putter that you’ll use for nearly 40 percent of your strokes.

If that's the kind of value equation that makes sense to you, then keep reading.

Every new year, I survey the new putter landscape along with my friends at Golfland Warehouse, and here are three new putters in a favorable price range that we feel are ready to raise you game in 2012:

Odyssey Metal-X Putters (starting at $150)

Odyssey is changing its own insert game with its new Metal-X putters. The Metal-X insert features a dimpled aluminum plate backed by a urethane dampening layer, offering the crisp feedback of a metal striking force combined with a smooth, supple feel. The insert';s oval depressions are designed to maximize the “mechanical lock” with the ball to increase friction and impart proper launch for a truer roll. The Metal-X putters come with a midnight black finish, and they include classic Odyssey models such as the 2-Ball, Rossie and more.

Value Add: The dual-layer, dimpled insert shows that Odyssey is still making an investment in innovation.

Sweet: The metal insert is a potential-game changer for golfers seeking a smoother roll

Bittersweet: Every year, it seems, Odyssey releases its next “big thing.” Will the Metal-X have staying power?

Never Compromise Sub30 Putters (starting at $159)

Never Compromise roared back in style last year, and now they are bringing their new look into more affordable territory. The Sub30 putters feature a dual-material face for a soft, responsive feel and more control of distance and direction on every putt. The face insert height of the Sub30 is one of the tallest of any putter on the market, minimizing distance loss and maximizing accuracy on putts hit high on the face, one of the most frequent miss-hits on the greens.

Value Add: A high-tech insert, stylish head cover options and individualized sole designs for each model show a commitment to bang for your buck.

Sweet: The tall Sub30 insert promises added forgiveness in instances of imperfect contact.

Bittersweet: The feel of the insert may not be lively enough for some golfers.

TaylorMade Ghost Manta Putter ($179)

Unlike many “high MOI” mallets that promise maximum stability, the Manta is shaped more like a traditional putter than a flying saucer. But under the hood are two tungsten sole weights and a changeable center weight that give any high MOI mallet a run for its money. Even better, the Manta offers a magnificent alignment scheme. Two black rails frame the golf ball while offering vivid contrast for a clear directional cue. Meanwhile, the leading edge of the white topline provides crisp visual feedback for squaring the putter to the target line.

Value Add: Two tungsten sole weights along with a third changeable weight combine to heighten MOI for maximum stability.

Sweet: The alignment scheme of the Ghost Manta is one of the finest you’ll ever experience.

Bittersweet: Some golfers may find the Pure Roll insert to feel a bit dull.