The PXG Hellcat ZT is the third zero torque putter released by PXG, following on from the Allan and the Bat Attack ZT. This new model features an enlarged blade design, as opposed to the two large mallet footprints of the other models, and comes to retail for $200 less ($249/£239).
So, the question is, is the performance still on a similar level to some of the best putters on the market, considering the substantial savings? I recently took it out on the golf course to find out.
Before diving into the performance, it’s worth touching more on the aesthetics of this putter, and for me, this is a real mixed bag. I like the simplicity of the design down behind the ball and the fact that PXG is finally offering a zero torque blade model, similar to that of the Bettinardi Antidote SB1 putter.
However, I can’t help but think the chrome detailing on the sole, contrasting with the satin head, just looks a little cheap compared to the gorgeous matte black finish on the Allan and Bat Attack ZT models.
PXG has stuck with the same S-hosel design in the Hellcat ZT that was first used in the Allan putter and negates torque without the shaft directly running into the central position in the head. I think this provides a clean look at the address and doesn’t obstruct your view of the sightline, which I heavily rely on when putting. This hosel also incorporates a 1° forward shaft lean, which allows the 4° loft on the head to play at 3° (the standard loft on most putters at retail).
While I liked how this putter set up and performed from inside 15ft, I struggled with the feel and acoustics of this putter, particularly when striking the putt with a bit of force from outside of 30ft.
Despite the 303 stainless steel head and pyramid face technology that was designed to reduce vibration through surface time and interaction, the Hellcat ZT felt very firm off the face and produced a fairly high-pitched sound through impact, which reminded me of the original Ping Anser.
While hitting a series of putts from varying distances, I just felt as though this putter wasn’t as stable as some of the most forgiving putters on the market or the other putters in the PXG zero torque stable. Miss-struck putts resulted in putts falling quite a long way short of their intended target, and meant I was having to hoover up a lot of five-footers for par. Luckily, it was over the shorter, somewhat uncomfortable putts where I thought this putter performed well.
The larger box-style grip is rather unconventional, but once you get used to how it fits in your palms, you notice how quiet it keeps your wrists and hands during the stroke, allowing you to simply aim and rock your shoulders. If you get nervous over those putts inside 5ft, then the Hellcat ZT would very much be worth considering.
Overall, I think the PXG Hellcat ZT is right up there with some of the best zero torque putters on the market and is a good option for those wanting a zero torque putter that still somewhat resembles a standard blade-style putter at address. What it lacks in stability, it makes up for in precision, and so if knocking the ball in from close range is your kryptonite, then the Hellcat ZT should be added to your shopping list this summer.
