L.A.B. DF3 Putters - 2024 Forum Review

[Cfhandyman]

1 hour ago, GolfSpy MPR said:

Hi, everyone. My name is Michael. I had a bunch of posts earlier in this thread, but have been traveling for a few days, and so it's possible with all the new posts that everyone has forgotten that I had been here

On Monday/Tuesday, I was in Lansing for the Michigan State Police Chaplain conference.

As Murphy dicates, FedEx delivered my putter Monday, when I was 500+ miles from home. So I got pictures of my children with the box, but was going to have to wait to see it myself. I got home late Tuesday night. I had considered filming an unboxing, but I know that my wife and (at least) Kirke would want to see the putter opening, and since we have five other children and a dog, it wasn't going to be the calmest environment for a putter unboxing video. Thus, I opened it without the cameras rolling.

I will certainly take a lot more pictures, but here are a couple that give the idea of the setup:

So far, I have rolled a bunch of putts on my basement green, done one session on the practice green at our course, and done one session of my indoor putting data collection with HackMotion/Blast/ExPutt. I intended to play a round yesterday, but when we got to the course we found it closed for play because of a high school tournament.

Some initial thoughts:

- The DF3 is shockingly heavy. The word shockingly is the key here. In a sense, it shouldn't surprise me, as I did order it in the "heavier" configuration. But after rolling some putts, I thought I would weigh it to compare with my Edel EAS 4.0. Now, my impression of my Edel is that it has all the subtlety of Thor's hammer. Compared to most putters, it feels very heavy throughout (not just head weight). Even though the L.A.B. is counterbalanced and 3 inches longer than the Edel, it felt lighter to me overall, not just in the stroke. So I was a bit surprised when I put them both on my coffee scale:

Given my "feel" that the L.A.B. was lighter, I think I'm happy to see that it's actually heavier. I'm hoping to find greater stability with less of a feeling of putting with a small sledgehammer.

As for first usage impressions: for me, there will be a learning curve. Putting without thumbs is an excellent practice; there absolutely needs to be a lot of letting the DF3 roll the ball instead of trying to roll the ball with the DF3:

 

On the practice green yesterday, I had one of my happier discoveries: the DF3 pulls up good memories of one of my favorite putters for alignment that I've ever used: the Odyssey R-ball:

Obviously, a variant of the 2-ball, the R-ball really suited my eye for alignment. The "gap" between the alignment ball in the rear of the putter and the actual ball gave me a stronger sense of the alignment of the putter than perhaps any other putter I've ever used.

Obviously the hole in the back of the DF3 is very similar. And as an added bonus, when I was putting my best with the R-ball, my thought was to bring that alignment ball through the stroke over the place where the ball was. This thought was effective for reducing my cut-across path with having technical path thoughts.

The mention of the R-ball allows me to bring up another early impression: I eventually moved on from the R-ball because, with the very hollow head design (evident in the picture above), it was persistently ping-y in sound. I detest that more than is rational.

For me, the DF3 with the TPT long shaft and Garsen Quad Tour 17 grip has a very solid sound, almost surprisingly solid for an aluminum putter. That said, on off-center hits, there is a hint of that ting. This is a good thing: there is audible (and slightly unpleasant) feedback on mishits, while solidly struck balls sound solidly struck. I'm a fan of the audio so far.

Performance on the practice green wasn't magic. I didn't have one of those moments in which I'm laughing in disbelief because I simply can't miss anything. But the more I rolled putts, the better my performance was getting. Rather than subjective evaluations, I'd rather hold off on comments about on-course performance until I can get some rounds and some Stack putting sessions recorded.

I did just finish an indoor session this morning. It is worth noting here: so far, I have yet to do any technical practice with the DF3. I've not done a session with the measured feedback in which I'm working to get the numbers into my desired ranges. I wanted to capture what is almost a first impression session, to see what, for me, the DF3 wanted to do with the stroke I'm bringing to it.

The answer: it was OK.

Again, it's unsurprising that the armlock putter is dominating the HackMotion column; wrist stability should improve with that style of putting. I was very pleased to see that the DF3, with comparatively little practice, put up one of the best distance control scores on ExPutt that I've achieved so far. I was surprised, though, to see it put up one of the worst scores for path, including an absolutely appalling -7.34° on short putts.

I'm hoping to get nine holes in this afternoon. Again, as a reminder, I'm losing about 3.5 strokes to a scratch golfer in putting right now. My hope would be to see that gap close considerably over the next few months.

Shazam and then the master, @GolfSpy MPR shows us how its done.  What an absolutely fabulous unboxing and initial impressions.  Exceedingly well done.

 

[Steve F]

A link to a quick update on the unboxing and some initial thoughts and findings on the DF3. I hope you enjoy! 
 

 

[CFreddie]

Looking good @Steve F - great unboxing video!

I've included some updates as well, including some additional shots of the putter, and my first impressions - enjoy!

 

[TSauer]

I love that the testing is just now getting started in this thread and it's already catching up to the LAB test from last year. Going to be one for the books!

[GolfSpy_KFT]

1 hour ago, CFreddie said:

Looking good @Steve F - great unboxing video!

I've included some updates as well, including some additional shots of the putter, and my first impressions - enjoy!

 

Chewie looks better every time I see it! Gonna look SO GOOD on the green!

[chadmariage]

Have played a couple rounds now with my DF3...I understand what folks are saying now about getting used to putting with it. I love the feel but it has been challenging so far. Looking forward to the process of dialing it in.

Edited May 10 by chadmariage

[Swood1994]

Loving this thread so far, this may be a front runner for test of the year . Great job everyone!

[Cfhandyman]

Bottom Line Summary of Week 3 of the Adventures of L.A.B. DF3

Moving forward we will be adding the following features to the weekly summary which comes out every Friday during the testing period.  Will do this in two posts.  The bottom line summary and best of and then the regular week 3 summary.  Let us know your thoughts and comments on both formats.

The Bottom line summary

Best post(s)

Best photo posts

Best video posts

Best lines

Links to previous weeks summary

The Bottom line summary: 

This week, all the putters have been named and all the testers have received their L.A.B. DF3 putters, despite varying delays from FedEX.  Unboxing and initial impressions have commenced with videos and photographs.  The Green hornet was the first to be delivered, then the LAB rat, quickly followed by Black Mamba, Shazam, Nemo and finally little Dory found her way home.  Unboxing and best of photos included.  Needless to say, many comments, thoughts and opinions were generated this week.

Unboxing Videos:

@Cfhandyman:

@Steve F : https://forum.mygolfspy.com/uploads/monthly_2024_05/Unveiling.mp4.13b2d465195b2c08a1d9aa1b84016a97.mp4  

@MattWillGolf

@CFreddie 

@jbern

Best Photos of our handsome warriors 

 

@GolfSpy SAM – the green Hornet

Best photo posts

@GolfSpy MPR: - Shazam

Two of my little girls tackled the FedEx guy and secured the DF3! Then Kirke poses with the box

  

 Best supporting Actor: @MattWillGolf and the colour Orange (goldfish, SF giants, Syracuse and orange Puttout and golf balls)

 

Best lines of the week:

@cnosil I'm waiting for Kirke to post the unboxing video.

@GolfSpy_KFT I work at a hospital but am not a doctor, however, I am sure I could find some letterhead to send a "doctor's note" to everyone's employer once putters arrive

@Steve F, my mailing address is .........

@TJ Hall I‘m not part of the test, but I will take one of the letters also!

Editor: @GolfSpy MPR inquiring minds would like to know, did Kirke take a quick peak at your new putter, before you got home and then retape the box???

Best Posts – Initial impressions

@GolfSpy MPR unboxing and initial impressions:

@Cfhandyman First round with the DF3 – highlights

Best video post

@jbern Unboxing and his exemplary video editing skills.

Links to previous weeks summary

Week 1 

 

Week 2 

 

[Rob Person]

Enjoying the recaps!!!  Thats alotnof extra effort, and it's worth it!

[jbern]

13 hours ago, Steve F said:

A link to a quick update on the unboxing and some initial thoughts and findings on the DF3. I hope you enjoy! 
 

 

 

11 hours ago, CFreddie said:

Looking good @Steve F - great unboxing video!

I've included some updates as well, including some additional shots of the putter, and my first impressions - enjoy!

 

Great updates to the main testing posts @Steve F & @CFreddie! So exciting to see all these photos and videos! Loved the courtesy wave to the FedEx guy from afar @CFreddie! Actually made me LOL!

@Steve F - I was surprised how close in weight the DF3 and the Spydr are! Sounds like you've got quite the comparison!

[jbern]

48 minutes ago, Cfhandyman said:

Bottom Line Summary of Week 3 of the Adventures of L.A.B. DF3

Moving forward we will be adding the following features to the weekly summary which comes out every Friday during the testing period.  Will do this in two posts.  The bottom line summary and best of and then the regular week 3 summary.  Let us know your thoughts and comments on both formats.

The Bottom line summary

Best post(s)

Best photo posts

Best video posts

Best lines

Links to previous weeks summary

The Bottom line summary: 

This week, all the putters have been named and all the testers have received their L.A.B. DF3 putters, despite varying delays from FedEX.  Unboxing and initial impressions have commenced with videos and photographs.  The Green hornet was the first to be delivered, then the LAB rat, quickly followed by Black Mamba, Shazam, Nemo and finally little Dory found her way home.  Unboxing and best of photos included.  Needless to say, many comments, thoughts and opinions were generated this week.

Unboxing Videos:

@Cfhandyman:

@Steve F : https://forum.mygolfspy.com/uploads/monthly_2024_05/Unveiling.mp4.13b2d465195b2c08a1d9aa1b84016a97.mp4  

@MattWillGolf

@CFreddie 

@jbern

Best Photos of our handsome warriors 

 

@GolfSpy SAM – the green Hornet

Best photo posts

@GolfSpy MPR: - Shazam

Two of my little girls tackled the FedEx guy and secured the DF3! Then Kirke poses with the box

  

 Best supporting Actor: @MattWillGolf and the colour Orange (goldfish, SF giants, Syracuse and orange Puttout and golf balls)

 

Best lines of the week:

@cnosil I'm waiting for Kirke to post the unboxing video.

@GolfSpy_KFT I work at a hospital but am not a doctor, however, I am sure I could find some letterhead to send a "doctor's note" to everyone's employer once putters arrive

@Steve F, my mailing address is .........

@TJ Hall I‘m not part of the test, but I will take one of the letters also!

Editor: @GolfSpy MPR inquiring minds would like to know, did Kirke take a quick peak at your new putter, before you got home and then retape the box???

Best Posts – Initial impressions

@GolfSpy MPR unboxing and initial impressions:

@Cfhandyman First round with the DF3 – highlights

Best video post

@jbern Unboxing and his exemplary video editing skills.

Links to previous weeks summary

Week 1 

 

Week 2 

 

Great weekly recap again @Cfhandyman! These are so fun to have and look back on each week! Impressive!

8 minutes ago, Rob Person said:

Enjoying the recaps!!!  Thats alotnof extra effort, and it's worth it!

Well said @Rob Person! He is going above and beyond with these and I'm loving it!

[Steve F]

23 minutes ago, Rob Person said:

Enjoying the recaps!!!  Thats alotnof extra effort, and it's worth it!

@Rob Person, I agree. @Cfhandyman has this locked down tight, and trust me, from my angle the effort put forth on our behalf is highly appreciated! I look at these recaps and am in compete awe of how informative and to the point they are! My hat, for one, is off to you sir!

[TSauer]

Thanks for another great recap, @Cfhandyman. They are very much appreciated!

[rkj427]

Another recap of the week's activities and posts on the DF3 testing @Cfhandyman.

Best to all the testers and following this test to see how much difference these putters make for your golf games. 

[Cfhandyman]

Normal Summary of Week 3 of the L.A.B. DF3

Comments on weekly review

  

@Josh Parker Bravo!  Well done sir!  Well done. 

@Jim Shaw love the shots, way to go, have fun with it. oh, it looks like you already are....

@Rob Person Is this going to be a weekly thing? Because I'll wait for this recap if so

@GolfSpy SAM He's 2-for-2 so far, so...yes?

@Cfhandyman Yes, @Rob Person this will be a weekly feature of the L.A.B. DF3 testing thread.
With all the great tests going on, it is sometimes hard or even daunting to keep up. So, I thought wouldn’t it be great if you had a weekly recap of the key highlights and photos for readers to use as a quick catch-up.  And some people don’t want to read it all, but would read the key highlights. So I’m trying something new with this. Is it a little more work. Yes. My hope is that if enough people like it, it could then be incorporated in other tests with a link under the main testers post links labelled weekly highlights. But we’re still a long way from there and still very much a work in progress.

Key Highlights and Comments

@GolfSpy_KFT @CFreddie loved the video with Calvin on the virtual fitting and approach they take to those! Thanks for doing that!

@jbernI agree! That was awesome of Calvin and LAB for taking the time to talk and allow recording for @CFreddie! Definitely a thread highlight for me too!

@CFreddie Super grateful for Calvin - he was game from the beginning and I hope it gave everyone a bit more insight into their process!

@cnosilHere’s a couple of questions for the testers: LABs big marketing position is that torque is bad.  They continually show putters in the revealer that rotate as it moves through the stroke. this also  shows that putters stay square to the path.   Why do you think torque is bad?  Do you think torque could actually be good? The revealer puts almost zero pressure on the grip; how much grip pressure do you think is necessary to stop the non torque balanced putters from rotating during the swing?   From what I have learned almost every path has a left or right bias.  @GolfSpy MPR I know you have reduced yours, but it still isn’t close to zeroed out.   If the putter stays square to the path, doesn’t that mean you will launch the ball right or left based on path?  

@GolfSpy_KFT  I am absolutely loving the direction this test is going! Nicknames for the putters are genius! I work at a hospital but am not a doctor, however, I am sure I could find some letterhead to send a "doctor's note" to everyone's employer once putters arrive

@Steve F , my mailing address is .........

@TJ Hall ‘m not part of the test, but I will take one of the letters also!

@cnosil LABs big marketing position is that torque is bad.  They continually show putters in the revealer that rotate as it moves through the stroke. this also  show6s that putters stay square to the path.   Why do you think torque is bad?  Do you think torque could actually be good? The revealer puts almost zero pressure on the grip; how much grip pressure do you think is necessary to stop the non torque balanced putters from rotating during the swing?   From what I have learned almost every path has a left or right bias.   @GolfSpy MPR I know you have reduced yours, but it still isn’t close to zeroed out.   If the putter stays square to the path, doesn’t that mean you will launch the ball right or left based on path?

@jbern I believe that no torque is EASIER to get a face pointed at the intended target.  My interpretation of the technology is that the face stays square to the initial target no matter what the path is, unless getting to that path manipulates the rotation (torque) of the putter face.

@cnosil as for square to path or target the lab site states: Lie Angle Balance (L.A.B.) Technology makes it effortless for golfers to deliver a square putter face at impact because, unlike other putters, it keeps the putter face square to the arc throughout the stroke.   Square to the arc is the putters path and not the target.  Since path has a minor influence on ball direction I’d want the face to turn to point to the target.

@Rearviewmirror There's a lot more to this, but my understanding is that square to the arc is effectively the same thing as path because the face is not torqueing open or closed - as you know, face angle is responsible for something like 80-85% of putt start line. If you set up square to target with a LAB putter, you can have every reasonable expectation that absent manipulation of the putter through the hands, it should return to square to target at the ball

@GolfSpy MPR the less loft you have on the club you're using, the more that the face angle (more than path) becomes determinative of launch direction.  Again, it's established knowledge with all clubs that face-to-target is the biggest factor in the initial launch direction of the ball, and that face-to-path determines how much curvature (and which direction) is imparted.

@Cfhandyman my wife has confirmed, that if I had ordered the L.A.B. DF3 putter in pink, it would definitely going her bag. No discussion. So, I made the correct call and dodged a big bullet. 

@GolfSpy MPR testing

@Cfhandyman Superb job and very well done Michael.  Do the putters have a chance?  They will be Exputted, Hacked and Blasted.  It will give us a very good baseline for each.

@GolfSpy MPRMy hope is that my counterbalanced L.A.B. will offer a good chunk of the wrist stability of the Midlock, while also performing better on the other metrics that heavily depend on start line.

@GolfSpy SAM but wanted to give you all an introduction to: 

 

 

@MattWillGolf In brightest day, in blackest night, no PUTT shall escape my sight. Let those who worship A 3-PUTT’s evil might beware my power…Green Lantern’s light!”

@Josh Parker WOW!!  That is all

@Rob Person And contrary to my thoughts on the mc hammer previously mentionEd, the bottom on yours looks alot like a bouquet of flowers.

@jbern Wow, what a beaut! I am really loving the green/white shaft/white grip combo! The detailed stamping in the pistol grip is next level cool! My excitement level is through the roof!

The MGS Corner:

@GolfSpy MPR Most Wanted Mallet released today on the blog: 

https://mygolfspy.com/buyers-guides/putters/the-best-mallet-putter/ 

Of interest to us: the DF3 finished 13 of 46 tested putters, and in the top 5 in the short putting test: 

@jbern

Great podcast with Chris Nickel and Sam Hahn on No putts Given

The $2,000 putter @GolfSpy MPR $2,000 for a gold putter that looks like C3PO is fantastic 

 

Delivery Anticipation (& Delays)

@CfhandymanL.A.B. moved heaven and earth to get the putters to us.  They expedited the build process and all putters were shipped within a week of order.  Phenomenal performance by L.A.B.  Two of us have just received our putters and the others are expected to get theirs in the next few days  FedEx be willing.

@CfhandymanSteve, fabulous post and I love the look of the “black mamba”. Well done. Also, I did not chase, tackle or hug the FedEx driver. Thanked her profusely for delivery and must have shocked her. She wasn’t expecting that. 

@jbern Maybe the folks at FedEx consider Michigan's U.P. a different country and put your L.A.B. on a plane like @Cfhandyman's

@GolfSpy MPR So for those following along at home: none of us were banking on L.A.B. generously expediting our putter orders. I honestly expected that I'd have at least a month to gather data with my Edel and Evnroll before the DF3 arrived. Now mind you: I'm not complaining. 

@Steve F . "working" from the front porch. Hmmmm. Now just remember @Cfhandyman, there is NO tackling the FedEx drivers! Your advice to me!!! 

@JoeCoolI know what you mean. I’m too waiting on a delivery that was supposed to be here 3 days ago. But it’s only replacement parts for my car. I guarantee that if it was a DF3 I would be beside myself!!

@Steve FSpotted yesterday 

 

@Cfhandyman  Good news, the eagle has landed, aka my LAB rat putter is in country at the FedEx sort facility, 30 minutes from my house.

@GolfSpy MPR I used to deliver for FedEx, so (for better and worse), I have a good idea how the system works

@GolfSpy MPRGood news! It's been seen in Minnesota and is supposed to arrive tomorrow! Bad news: I'll see it around midnight Tuesday when I get home. 

Nothing except that my DF3 left that town 48 hours ago. And no one at FedEx has scanned the label since.

@MattWillGolf Update. As of 9:44 AM it was scanned in Overland Park, KS. I don’t think it will delivered today between 9:50 AM and 1:50 PM.

@GolfSpy_KFT @GolfSpy MPR the rest of the afternoon, thinking of all the ways FedEx in Troutdale did him wrong

@GolfSpy MPRAnd here I am, 500+ miles from home. I've instructed Kirke that he is not allowed to claim my

DF3 simply because he's there and I'm not.

@GolfSpy MPR So, for no good reason, I now hate the town of Troutdale, OR. Sorry, Troutdalers.

@Cfhandyman Calling Mr Troutdale, are you looking for this?  

MPR I know nothing about the city of Troutdale, OR.

Mattwill According to FedEx, not that they can be fully trusted Nemo is out for delivery 

The putters arrive and unboxing videos  

@Cfhandyman

@Steve F https://forum.mygolfspy.com/uploads/monthly_2024_05/Unveiling.mp4.13b2d465195b2c08a1d9aa1b84016a97.mp4 

@MattWillGolf 

Cfreddie

 

@jbern 

Show us your Putter pictures

LAB rat   

 

@CfhandymanInitial impressions. This is a premium, very high quality and very well built putter. Great balance, weight and feel. It sits beautifully and feels very smooth.  The TPT shaft is premium and gorgeous.  Love the pistol grip. Overall, this putter is stunning and gorgeous. Very impressed with L.A.B. and this putter.  The looks of this putter are intoxicating. To get a custom hand built and balanced putter from the west coast in a week is insanely crazy and fast

Black Mamba  

 

 @Steve F First impression is this just wreaks of Tech. I had mine built Heavy: my current gamer the Spider has some definite heft at the end of the shaft. I wanted to stay close to that feeling if possible as I do like the feel of some weight at the end of the putter. Even with this, the DF3 is perceptibly lighter than the Spider.

Nemo         @MattWillGolf I am pleased to announce the arrival of Nemo. 34.5” long and a bit heavier. For reasons not entirely clear to me I went with an orange putter.

Chewie   

    

Shazam    

@GolfSpy MPR Two of my little girls tackled the FedEx guy and secured the DF3! Then Kirke poses with the box with Dad's new magic putter:

    

@jbern Dory is here!! Unboxing video and photos coming soon      

Reactions to Unboxing’s

Great unboxing video @Cfhandyman ! Lab Rat looks amazing!!!

@BreakfastBall15 Oh god that is beautiful

@sirchunksalot I enjoyed the unboxing video of the Lab Rat and the photos look spectacular! I like the combo alignment aid you chose and look forward to hearing how well you roll it.

@Jim Shaw great video and photos, I am pretty sure that is exactly how you open your gifts Christmas morning!! looking forward to test on grass... enjoy..

@Cfhandyman Actually Jim, @Jim Shaw I was rather restrained opening it as I only had one opportunity to open it, get it on video and not screw it up. The inner Taz in me felt otherwise. 

@Steve F incredible introduction to the Lab Rat!!! I'm really curious as to how you're going to like it! Can't wait to hear your overall reviews!

@Cfhandyman Josh, @Josh Parker, initial impressions of TPT. Great shaft, beautiful build quality with very nice feel, weight and balance with good feedback. Is it better or will it surpass the BGT stability shaft, too early to tell. I selected the TPT over the stability, based on data and recommendations from L.A.B. and pre-testing of DF3 with TPT.  It also allowed me the ability to compare it to my Evnroll/stability/gravity grip combo. More to follow on testing.  

@GolfSpy SAM By far the biggest difference for me is the pistol grip (have the 3° smooth in the DF2.1), but it's a VERY nice difference. I do feel it's a little easier for me to be slightly "handsy" with this, so it'll be something to keep an eye on, but it's a shape I far prefer. Also, the texture on it is incredible. 

@jbern I can’t wait for a video of @GolfSpy MPR playing in the rain, draining a long putt and yelling “Shazam!!” I’d be on the edge of my seat to see what happens!

@Syks7 really excited to read about the DF3 s.   I've gone back to my Link from the DF2.1, but would still like a bit more stability.   DF2.1 and a Bettinardi could end up as part of my garage clean out depends my on what I read

@CFreddie What a great end to your weekend @Steve F!!! The mamba looks incredible!

@Northern Monkey Well it had been a nice dry day here until I saw this and now I’m sitting in a puddle of my own drool 

@MattWillGolf Well done Chris. Great unboxing video and photos of the Lab Rat. I will most certainly use it as inspiration for the day my putter arrives. And hopefully put my twist and personality into my test.

@jbern Been looking back at the unboxing videos and photos from @Cfhandyman! Very well done! Living vicariously through you and these photos while I wait for the other blue LAB to arrive!

@cnosil I'm waiting for Kirke to post the unboxing video.

@TSauer Great unboxing, the Black Mamba is looking fresh! For a second there, I thought you were performing some kind of magic trick pulling all of that bubble wrap out of the box.

@jbern Congrats on the safe arrival of Shazam! Kirke looks pretty thrilled! Are you going to let them open it??

@Cfhandyman Wow, that's absolutely gorgeous.  Cappuccino colour looks far better in person than online.  Love the simple and elegant alignment.

@Steve F Wow! You all have me wondering why I always stick with "basic black". That is truly a gorgeous putter! And I love the alignment marking choice! ... now let me clear the drool....!

@ole gray Wow, that's absolutely gorgeous.  Cappuccino colour looks far better in person than online.  Love the simple and elegant alignment.

@Northern Monkey I do believe we have a fight on our hands for the best looking LAB putter. This is absolutely gorgeous! I have to admit I didn’t think I’d like the cappuccino colour but it looks so much better in these pics. Great choice

@Josh Parker The color choices have been on fire!  I will say, the green is prob still my top choice but everyone did well!

@Cfhandyman Matt, absolutely fabulous introduction and unboxing. Personally, the orange colour is a perfect match for the SF Giants uniform, the Goldfish bag, the orange balls, the orange Puttout and the Syracuse colours. Nice touch. How can Nemo possibly go wrong with all that support. 

@jbern Wow, I did not expect Nemo to be camo, but at your house he is!  Great unboxing video and I think you made the proper color choice! Anyone who has orange colors in there history is going to want that beautiful thing! Please tell me your gamer golf ball is orange?

@MattWillGolf Not gonna lie, I’m still disappointed @Cfhandyman didn’t go with pink as he initially hinted. 

See you next week

 

 

 

Edited May 11 by Cfhandyman

[GolfSpy MPR]

It's obvious that the transition to any L.A.B. putter, including the DF3, requires at least a little adjustment to one's technique. I think my daughter has mastered it:

 

[GolfSpy MPR]

On a more serious note, I had my first putts with Shazam during a round yesterday afternoon. Played with my dad and my two boys; my dad and Kirke versus Christopher and me, best ball match play.

I started off as a total train wreck. Lost my drive right off the first tee, dropped, topped the next two balls, left my pitch short of the green, used the DF3 to putt from the fringe to 3 feet, then missed the 3 footer. Quintuple bogey. Also took penalty shots on the next two holes to go triple-triple.

(Instead of saying that I was 11-over through 3, I think it sounds way nicer to say that I made 6 pars on the first three holes.)

It's not relevant to this thread, but it was the first time taking a new swing change/thought to the course, and it clearly needs some refining.

So let's focus on the putting. We only played six tracked holes, because we switched to a four-man scramble for the final 3 (my dad and Kirke had already closed us out).

For those six holes, I had 12 putts: I literally two-putted everything.

Obviously, missing the 3 footer on the first stings, and I would have liked to have made the 6 footer on the second, but it was still a pretty reasonable performance for me, especially with it being the first time using the DF3 on course:

For not having done a lot of practice with the DF3, and the fact that our greens still aren't in full form, I'm pleased. Hoping to put in some work today on the ExPutt/Blast/HackMotion, not only doing another data session, but putting in some practice to match my feels to the numbers I want to see with those measurement devices.

[CFreddie]

Great stuff gents - even as a tester, I need the weekly recap to see all of the amazing stuff that has happened over the week @Cfhandyman!

Was able to get some "on-course" time this morning with my wife, even though it was a local pitch & putt (she's learning the game and its perfect for her).  I still need some good green time to get this dialed in a bit more, but I'm already getting used to the technique changes a bit more.  Biggest issue at this point - distance control (which was expected), so its something for me to dial in over the next few weeks.  Playing a big boy course tomorrow for Chewie's first round - looking forward to seeing what it can do!!!

[MattWillGolf]

3 hours ago, Cfhandyman said:

Bottom Line Summary of Week 3 of the Adventures of L.A.B. DF3

Moving forward we will be adding the following features to the weekly summary which comes out every Friday during the testing period.  Will do this in two posts.  The bottom line summary and best of and then the regular week 3 summary.  Let us know your thoughts and comments on both formats.

The Bottom line summary

Best post(s)

Best photo posts

Best video posts

Best lines

Links to previous weeks summary

The Bottom line summary: 

This week, all the putters have been named and all the testers have received their L.A.B. DF3 putters, despite varying delays from FedEX.  Unboxing and initial impressions have commenced with videos and photographs.  The Green hornet was the first to be delivered, then the LAB rat, quickly followed by Black Mamba, Shazam, Nemo and finally little Dory found her way home.  Unboxing and best of photos included.  Needless to say, many comments, thoughts and opinions were generated this week.

Unboxing Videos:

@Cfhandyman:

@Steve F : https://forum.mygolfspy.com/uploads/monthly_2024_05/Unveiling.mp4.13b2d465195b2c08a1d9aa1b84016a97.mp4  

@MattWillGolf

@CFreddie 

@jbern

Best Photos of our handsome warriors 

 

@GolfSpy SAM – the green Hornet

Best photo posts

@GolfSpy MPR: - Shazam

Two of my little girls tackled the FedEx guy and secured the DF3! Then Kirke poses with the box

  

 Best supporting Actor: @MattWillGolf and the colour Orange (goldfish, SF giants, Syracuse and orange Puttout and golf balls)

 

Best lines of the week:

@cnosil I'm waiting for Kirke to post the unboxing video.

@GolfSpy_KFT I work at a hospital but am not a doctor, however, I am sure I could find some letterhead to send a "doctor's note" to everyone's employer once putters arrive

@Steve F, my mailing address is .........

@TJ Hall I‘m not part of the test, but I will take one of the letters also!

Editor: @GolfSpy MPR inquiring minds would like to know, did Kirke take a quick peak at your new putter, before you got home and then retape the box???

Best Posts – Initial impressions

@GolfSpy MPR unboxing and initial impressions:

@Cfhandyman First round with the DF3 – highlights

Best video post

@jbern Unboxing and his exemplary video editing skills.

Links to previous weeks summary

Week 1 

 

Week 2 

 

"Firstly, I'd like to thank the Academy, my agent, the fine folks at Pepperidge Farms and last but not least my wife whose unending support has led up to this incredibly humbling experience" 

 

[StrokerAce]

you guys are setting the bar so high in this testing thread that it's going to be impossible to even come close.

what an extraordinary job by all of the testers. 

bravo isn't a strong enough term but I can't think of anything else right now.

just.... wow... 

[MattWillGolf]

Greetings,

I just updated to my L.A.B. DF3 Test post to cover my fitting, unboxing and first impressions. 

 

Edited May 10 by MattWillGolf

[Steve F]

Added some data gathering done today to the main post with this link: 

 

[GolfSpy SAM]

Holy smokes.  Took the Green Lantern out for its inaugural run today.  28 total putts, no three-putts, and 8 1-putts (including 2 birdies).  Total feet made (rough estimation as I don't bring a measuring tape with me - yet) - 60' on the one-putts, and all the other two-putts were within 3 feet, but I'm not counting those, really, as the vast majority were within kick-in distance.  Seriously, this thing just flat-out performed for me today.  15-footer for par on 8 was a highlight, as was the 10' birdie putt (after, legit, the best shot of my life to get it onto the green from a BRUTAL position - more on that in the VCT thread) on 11.  Finished with a snaky 6-footer for birdie on 18 after sticking my approach from 100 yards.  

I'd say, honestly, there were THREE putts I'd like back, as I left two short (both of them inside of 6 feet) - one for birdie, one for par.  I honestly can't explain what happened, other than I got tentative and kind of decelerated through the putt - I can genuinely say the birdie putt was out of excitement, and the par putt was out of trepidation of hitting it too far past. Both were center-cup if I'd just hit them.  The third putt was for a well-earned par on 17 after another really good chip to about 6/7 feet, and I just never saw the break and missed it on the right - but it was one I felt I SHOULD make. 

Other than that, this thing just delivered.  My distance control and lag putting was EXCELLENT - had putts from 22, 25 and 50' that all were less than 12" from the hole when they stopped.  Only one really bad lag putt, from about 25' - I have no explanation other than a gust of wind started blowing and instead of stepping off and adjusting, I just tried to hit it and fanned it out to the right and short by about 5'.  My buddy ( @Billy The Kid Rogers) said "what the hell was THAT?" and I just started laughing - it was just a bad putt. They still happen

Anyway, thrilled to have had it out with me today.  There's definitely a SLIGHTLY different feel than the DF2.1, but that's not a bad thing - it's just different.  It feels slightly more solid at impact, and there's definitely less of a 'ting' if struck out of the toe.

Alright - it's bed time. Just wanted to say hey and give you a few updates. 

[Northern Monkey]

3 hours ago, GolfSpy SAM said:

Holy smokes.  Took the Green Lantern out for its inaugural run today.  28 total putts, no three-putts, and 8 1-putts (including 2 birdies).  Total feet made (rough estimation as I don't bring a measuring tape with me - yet) - 60' on the one-putts, and all the other two-putts were within 3 feet, but I'm not counting those, really, as the vast majority were within kick-in distance.  Seriously, this thing just flat-out performed for me today.  15-footer for par on 8 was a highlight, as was the 10' birdie putt (after, legit, the best shot of my life to get it onto the green from a BRUTAL position - more on that in the VCT thread) on 11.  Finished with a snaky 6-footer for birdie on 18 after sticking my approach from 100 yards.  

I'd say, honestly, there were THREE putts I'd like back, as I left two short (both of them inside of 6 feet) - one for birdie, one for par.  I honestly can't explain what happened, other than I got tentative and kind of decelerated through the putt - I can genuinely say the birdie putt was out of excitement, and the par putt was out of trepidation of hitting it too far past. Both were center-cup if I'd just hit them.  The third putt was for a well-earned par on 17 after another really good chip to about 6/7 feet, and I just never saw the break and missed it on the right - but it was one I felt I SHOULD make. 

Other than that, this thing just delivered.  My distance control and lag putting was EXCELLENT - had putts from 22, 25 and 50' that all were less than 12" from the hole when they stopped.  Only one really bad lag putt, from about 25' - I have no explanation other than a gust of wind started blowing and instead of stepping off and adjusting, I just tried to hit it and fanned it out to the right and short by about 5'.  My buddy ( @Billy The Kid Rogers) said "what the hell was THAT?" and I just started laughing - it was just a bad putt. They still happen

Anyway, thrilled to have had it out with me today.  There's definitely a SLIGHTLY different feel than the DF2.1, but that's not a bad thing - it's just different.  It feels slightly more solid at impact, and there's definitely less of a 'ting' if struck out of the toe.

Alright - it's bed time. Just wanted to say hey and give you a few updates. 

Great first round with the Lantern

[TJ Hall]

5 hours ago, GolfSpy SAM said:

Holy smokes.  Took the Green Lantern out for its inaugural run today.  28 total putts, no three-putts, and 8 1-putts (including 2 birdies).  Total feet made (rough estimation as I don't bring a measuring tape with me - yet) - 60' on the one-putts, and all the other two-putts were within 3 feet, but I'm not counting those, really, as the vast majority were within kick-in distance.  Seriously, this thing just flat-out performed for me today.  15-footer for par on 8 was a highlight, as was the 10' birdie putt (after, legit, the best shot of my life to get it onto the green from a BRUTAL position - more on that in the VCT thread) on 11.  Finished with a snaky 6-footer for birdie on 18 after sticking my approach from 100 yards.  

I'd say, honestly, there were THREE putts I'd like back, as I left two short (both of them inside of 6 feet) - one for birdie, one for par.  I honestly can't explain what happened, other than I got tentative and kind of decelerated through the putt - I can genuinely say the birdie putt was out of excitement, and the par putt was out of trepidation of hitting it too far past. Both were center-cup if I'd just hit them.  The third putt was for a well-earned par on 17 after another really good chip to about 6/7 feet, and I just never saw the break and missed it on the right - but it was one I felt I SHOULD make. 

Other than that, this thing just delivered.  My distance control and lag putting was EXCELLENT - had putts from 22, 25 and 50' that all were less than 12" from the hole when they stopped.  Only one really bad lag putt, from about 25' - I have no explanation other than a gust of wind started blowing and instead of stepping off and adjusting, I just tried to hit it and fanned it out to the right and short by about 5'.  My buddy ( @Billy The Kid Rogers) said "what the hell was THAT?" and I just started laughing - it was just a bad putt. They still happen

Anyway, thrilled to have had it out with me today.  There's definitely a SLIGHTLY different feel than the DF2.1, but that's not a bad thing - it's just different.  It feels slightly more solid at impact, and there's definitely less of a 'ting' if struck out of the toe.

Alright - it's bed time. Just wanted to say hey and give you a few updates. 

Sounds like an amazing start with the LAB!

[Cfhandyman]

Initial Impression of L.A.B. DF3 after the first week and 3 rounds of play

Overall initial impressions: An excellent opening start to testing of the L.A.B. DF3.  This is one seriously good putter.  Great weight, feel and balance.  Alignment and distance control were outstanding. Precision and accuracy are the two words that keep coming up when I think of this putter and the results convey that. Very similar putting stats versus my historical 50 round average, although with subtle and slight differences.  Where I have already seen a  difference is a slight positive trend in strokes gained as well as a slight increase in one putts and decrease in three putts.  Only one three putt after three rounds.  Two things stand out so far, how good it is inside 10 feet and its distance control.  Is it ready to replace my Evnroll in the bag?  Ah, not so fast. We’re still a long way, many more rounds and much testing from there.  However, an intriguing and impressive opening start with the L.A.B. DF3 

So what are the results after 3 rounds of play?  I compared my 3 recent rounds with the L.A.B. versus the previous 3 rounds using the Evnroll, in comparison to a 0 handicap using my Arccos data.  So, a small sample size and please take these results with a grain of salt.  I had 3 rounds of 30 putts, 24 putts and 30 putts.  My normal average is 31-32 putts per round (Arccos).  The 24 putt round included an insane 11 one putts.  In that particular round, my short game was on fire so I had many one putts in the 2 to 8 foot range and I most likely would have made many of those putts also with the Evnroll.  As a result, one putts increased to 7.7 per round and three putts decreased to 0.7 per round.   Where it did very well, was in the 0 to 10 foot range.  I strongly suspect this was as a result to very good face angle control with the L.A.B.  So will these initial results continue or will it regress to the mean?  Once, I have about 20 or so rounds of data, I will have a much better sense of how good the L.A.B. is and how it ultimately compares to the Evnroll.  More to follow.

3 round putting data with the L.A.B. DF3 (Arccos)

The impact on scoring is as follows compared to a 0 handicap:

As a result, I have now updated my main post to include my initial impressions and unboxing experiences.  Link below

 

Edited May 11 by Cfhandyman

[Cfhandyman]

Thank you - Feedback on weekly summaries

A big thank you to all for continuing to provide feedback on the weekly summaries which now include the bottom line (aka executive) version and the normal version.  We strive to continue to improve and innovate to make this a better and interactive experience for the readers.  Do we set the bar high.  Absolutely.  However, I'm very fortunate to be working with a great group of uniquely talented testers.  Keep your suggestions coming and Thank you.

 

[Jim Shaw]

On 4/15/2024 at 4:05 AM, Cfhandyman said:

Who I am – MGS Tester Introduction

My name is Chris and welcome. I am a 65 year old male and I live with my artist wife Sue and two huskies in Oakville, in the greater Toronto area in Ontario, Canada. To put things into perspective the province of Ontario is 1.5 times larger than the state of Texas and 4 times the size of the U.K.    

 

Why I am testing: I am very grateful to MGS and L.A.B. and excited by this opportunity. I am keen to see if the L.A.B. DF3 and its lie angle balance approach to putter design works as claimed.  It was designed to eliminate torque and produce a repeatable swing. The DF3 is the smaller, sleeker version of its bigger brother, the directed force, DF2, but does it deliver the goods?  It has gained significant traction on tour and begs the question of how it stacks up to my fitted reference putter(s). 

    VERSUS    

But this is no ordinary Evnroll.  It has been fitted and modified with a stability tour shaft and an Evnroll gravity grip. For more information on this and my putting statistics, see,

What am I looking for in the L.A.B. DF3: I gave a lot of thought on how I would test this if given the opportunity before applying. I am a fairly decent putter averaging 31 to 32 putts per round based on my Arccos data.  If it proves to deliver the putter more consistently to the ball and results in more one putts, less three putts and overall, less putts per round, it will be a candidate to go in the bag permanently. I am particularly interested in how it performs from 10’ feet and in. Does it offer good value for the money?  My putter testing protocol including testing on Quintic to follow in a separate post.  Moreover, thorough testing of the L.A.B. DF3 will focus me on improving my putting and working on my putting drills. So thankyou MyGolfSpy.

   Making those short putts is critical.

Who I am: I am driven by challenges and the constant need to learn and improve and I’m passionate in what I do. I am also data driven and analytical in nature. Needless to say, I am a golf, data and equipment junkie. I have had many careers.  After graduate school, I did medical research looking at factors involved in preterm labour.  I then moved onto organ donation and transplantation, eventually running the organ donation program based out of Toronto General Hospital. Toronto General hospital (TGH) is one of the premier transplant centres and hospitals

  in the world.  They pioneered both successful single and double lung transplantation in the eighties. 

I had the distinct pleasure of working in multi organ transplant in the early days (80’s/90’s) and worked with many brilliant and incredibly smart people. Where the driving principle was you do what’s best for the patient and what does the data show.  What is the source of that data, is it evidence based, is it fair, balanced, and non promotional in nature.  You had to know your stuff and be prepared for anything.  Back then it was routine to work 24-36 hours straight procuring and transplanting organs.  Think of the guy getting off the Lear jet in OR greens with a cooler. I was that guy.  I’ve been in every teaching hospital and most ICU’s (intensive care units) across Canada and many in the US. 

  No frequent flyer miles

I’m driven by the need to learn, push myself and enjoy what I do. I then transitioned to career 3, moving to the “dark side” starting with Wyeth and then Pfizer in their Rare Disease group and the launch of Rapamycin for organ transplantation.  So, I stayed in transplant, interacted with all the people I worked with for many years, although now in a different capacity.  If you’re going to go to industry, it’s the best way to go.  Over time, bleeding disorders (hemophilia) and growth disorders were added to my portfolio but the same guiding principle of doing what’s best for the patient and what does the data actually show, guided me.  Career 4, presented itself during the pandemic and the opportunity to take early retirement with no more Zoom calls and the opportunity to be a full time golf aficionado and pickleball player was too irresistible to pass up.  My other passions are building, home renovation and cooking. When I was young, I bought a water access shell of a cottage as my first property.  Not being handy at the time, I proceeded to take courses in construction, carpentry, electrical and plumbing. I then proceeded to completely wire the cottage, plumb it, insulate it, drywall, install flooring, build the kitchen, bathroom, etc. I’ve built and rebuilt docks, decks, so hence the handyman moniker. There’s not much I can’t do, although with age comes wisdom.

   

Golf: I have been playing golf on and off for 40 plus years.  After not playing golf for 10+ years, I got back into golf at the age of 60.  I was inspired by a friend who once said, golf is the only game you can play for 30 years and never improve.  When I thought about it, it is rather true, so I was determined to do it right the second time around.   At the time I was about a 25ish handicap.  Hence lessons, fitted equipment and diligent practice. I was inspired again when I went to Tour Experience Golf (TXG) 5+ years ago and came out not only with expertly fitted and built clubs, but many new friends.  I now go at least twice a year to tweak my setup.  My current handicap is 6.3, but I have been as low as 4 or high as 8.5.  Most of my rounds are in the 78 - 82 range.  My home course is TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley featuring 3 courses all ranked within the top 60 courses in Canada and all 3 in the top 20 public courses in Canada.

      

TPC Sawgrass, I’m the guy in the middle in the blue and black. 

I love scenic, challenging courses, especially mountain or coastal courses. What drives me is hitting good shots and being consistent.  My philosophy is if you hit good shots the score will “usually” take care of itself.  If you don’t like the score, play better. I am competitive, however, I play more for the joy of the game.  I strive to improve each year and keep father time at bay.   Now, my day job is golf, pickleball and my two huskies.

  Myah (front) and Hazel (rear)

Thank you for your patience and understanding in reading my introduction.

Unboxing and Initial impressions of the L.A.B. DF3, aka the Lab Rat

 The L.A.B. DF3 putter has arrived and the blue Lab Rat is in the house.  

Overall:  An excellent opening start to testing of the L.A.B. DF3.  This is one seriously good putter.  Great weight, feel and balance.  Alignment and distance control were outstanding. Precision and accuracy are the two words that keep coming up when I think of this putter and the results convey that. Very similar putting stats versus my historical 50 round average, although with subtle and slight differences.  Where I have already seen a  difference is a slight positive trend in strokes gained as well as an slight increase in one putts and decrease in three putts.  Only one three putt after three rounds.  Two things stand out so far, how good it is inside 10 feet and its distance control.  Is it ready to replace my Evnroll in the bag?  Ah, not so fast. We’re still a long way, many more rounds and much testing from there.  However, an intriguing and impressive opening start with the L.A.B. DF3        Score 15/15

Initial impressions. This is a premium, very high quality and very well built putter. Great balance, weight and feel. It sits beautifully and feels very smooth.  The TPT shaft is premium and gorgeous.  Love the pistol grip. Overall, this putter is stunning and gorgeous. Very impressed with L.A.B. and this putter.  The looks of this putter are intoxicating. To get a custom hand built and balanced putter from the west coast in a week is insanely crazy and fast. 

Unboxing link 

 

First round and initial impressions link 

And without further ado a live unboxing of the L.A.B. Putter and initial reaction.  It’s short and only 90 seconds.

Looks:  the DF3 is noticeably sleeker and significantly smaller than the DF2.1  In person, the putter, while still unique looking, is gorgeous.  You grow to love its unique and intoxicating looks.  However, the DF3 is still a large putter.     It didn’t take long (first hole) for someone to say, what the hell is that. It’s a L.A.B.  A what?  But of course, they had to try it.  

Sound: Soft, but firm muted feel little higher in pitch than the Evnroll.  

Alignment: Exceptional alignment, very easy to align with line on my ball, Callaway Chrome soft X LS triple track 

Feel, weight and balance:  Great feel, weight and balance. Love how it’s sits and lies. The stroke is very smooth.  It provided great feedback and was very consistent, precise

Shaft/grip: Impressed by the feedback provided by LAB / TPT shaft. Very stable and instant feedback. Pistol grip felt super comfortable and felt great in my hands

Distance control:  excellent, almost made a 60’ missed by 3 inch phenomenal feel and control. Impressed from long distance.  It was very consistent, no 3 putts, 5 one putts in a round where I had 4 putts of 50’ or more  longish putts.

Stats:   Puttings stats (Arccos data) for round. Played TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley on the newly and extensively renovated North course.  In short, this is now a championship level course.  Overall, 31 putts, 5 single putts and 13 two putts.  No 3 putts.

VERSUS  (Evnroll/Stability/Gravity grip combination) - Historical Control

My putting statistics from Arccos over the last 50 rounds compared to a 0 handicap

Comments:   inside 5’ felt almost automatic,  within 10’ also very good.  As the round progressed, I felt more and more confident I could consistently make putts 10’ and less.  I made several long putts.  Another nice little touch, the hole in the putter makes it easy to pick up the ball, also known as the gimme getter.

The first few holes, I left putts uncharacteristically short by 3-4’. At this point, my wife commented you putt better with the Evnroll. Well the LAB heard that and then began to show its mettle.  I felt that once you get the proper read, set your alignment and then all you need to do is just get the ball rolling along its intended line.  Basically, take it back with your usual stroke and then let the putter do its thing.  Nice start to the testing of the DF3.

 

 

Good morning, I read through your bio, very important jobs, thank you for that, what area of Ontario did you buy your cottage, I am learning that quite a few Ontarians have cottages but I don't know how far north you go..

What I was looking for is how long of a shaft did you put on your DF3? 

[Cfhandyman]

4 minutes ago, Jim Shaw said:

Good morning, I read through your bio, very important jobs, thank you for that, what area of Ontario did you buy your cottage, I am learning that quite a few Ontarians have cottages but I don't know how far north you go..

What I was looking for is how long of a shaft did you put on your DF3? 

Jim, thank you for that.  Based on the online fitting with L.A.B., shaft length is 35.5", with 69* lie angle.  So far very impressed with the TPT shaft.  Cottage is just east of the Kawartha's, about 20 minutes south of Bancroft or and hour north of Belleville or 2.5 hours from Toronto.  About a 3 hour drive for me.

[Jim Shaw]

25 minutes ago, Cfhandyman said:

Jim, thank you for that.  Based on the online fitting with L.A.B., shaft length is 35.5", with 69* lie angle.  So far very impressed with the TPT shaft.  Cottage is just east of the Kawartha's, about 20 minutes south of Bancroft or and hour north of Belleville or 2.5 hours from Toronto.  About a 3 hour drive for me.

So not a “broom “ style. Does the putter set up and look encourage you to make more of a pendulum stroke, more than with your other putter? Or do you think your stroke is similar.