Was nice to just see you and James today at waterfront even though very briefly just wanted to tell you how much I enjoy your videos cheers and happy new year hope you have a great one 👍
Blindly ordered a stock DF3 early last spring just to give it a shot. Absolutely the best putter I have ever owned. I have always been a pretty good putter but struggled with longer distance control. The Oz looks cool but honestly I dont have any interest in even trying another putter, although I may eventually order a custom DF3 and give the Accra shaft a go.
Like the comparisons and nice to see ya get your hands on a Oz. Hopefully the Oz insert ends up working out great and they come out with the df3 with insert. Happy new years btw!
I can see how you might want a hotter face if you're usually playing on slower greens, but I've personally grown to love the DF3 for it's softer face. It seems to me that a hotter face makes it more difficult to be precise with your distance.
First time LAB user here. Just received my DF3, weather here in NY isn’t great but rolled it on a practice green. I have the heavier head option and I like and maybe something to look into Gary!
Went to the DF3 and haven’t looked back ! I’ve always been a decent putter but sometimes struggled with 4-6’ range, with the DF3 I’ve saved 3-4 putts on average per round, awesome putter. Scotty has been moved to the B rig 😊
Thank you for your response! I've been playing the DF3 for about 8 months and really like it. I am interested in the oZ, but at $600-$700...? Think I'll stick with the DF for now!
Great comparison. The blue DF3 looks amazing. OZ rolled straighter. Perhaps you should play a few rounds with each and see how many you leave short with the DF3. If your speed is good with it, that might be your forever putter.
One thing I noticed is that the OZi1 face puts a more positive roll off the face. LAB is only 2hrs from me so I'm going to head down there for a fitting soon.
Happy New Year and the I would really like to hear your thoughts on Bettinardi Antidote mallet compared to the LAB putter and if I go lab it’s definitely going to be the OZ
I beat him on his channel about 2 weeks ago, I don’t know if you’ll ever see it lol 😂 We will though, although he does become harder to get hold of when you’re playing well 😄
I’ll guarantee I’ll see more LAB putters on the course this year, I met four other users with them on my travels last season and despite the various ribbings I got when I invested, people are now asking me about my Link 1. The same guys who wouldn’t bat an eyelid about spending similar or more on a driver. When you set it on a line it stays on that line , so it’s all about pace
You seem to roll the DF3 better on the longer putts. Waiting for the link 1 to have an insert. Have tested the DF3, just find it too soft, no feed back.
Gary, when you did the very first put between the DF3 & OZ.1i. How much farther did the Putz go with the Oz? You didn’t stay at a distance difference but from the video it looks like they were going 5-7 feet farther.
Thank you for this research video. You are on "YOUR" putter journey; like so many journeys in golf. My 2 cents is that you should play two/three times on different types of green speeds. You might end up having both for different playing conditions and just how you are putting that day with a particlurer putter. I have a DF3 (love it, love the confidence it give me) and I have problems with real long putts and distance control (dampened feel) because the the amount of energy in the swing.
When it will come to test and compare the OZ.1i with the OZ.1, it might be important to use the ball one always uses to play on courses to find out the best combination of ball and putter face with or without insert
@@garymartingolf The face selection is another possibility to make the wrong decision besides measurements, shaft, shaft lean, color, alignment mark front/rear, grip and weight
Great video but i love my 2.1 , I wasn’t as keen on Dans DF3 when I tried it. I have a circle T in the garage that will struggle to get back in the bag. If the 2.1 doesn’t behave I can always fly it home 😉will give the oz a go if I get the chance but definitely will be going down the LAB route for my next putter if I stop loving the 2.1.
I get where you are coming from with the df3 it feels like you have to give putts a real bang on slow greens. The technology works though as the ball rolls end over end. It’s a shame you can’t have a springy insert in the df3. After buying the df3 I’m going to stick with it for now but could be interested in trying the OZ
Gary, Beautiful castle as a clubhouse in the background. Nice ! I’m a big fan of LAB. As I’ve said on here and many other channels, I was remotely custom fit for my DF3 over last summer. 72 degree lie angle, 36 inch, counterbalanced, heavier head, LAB SS 3.0 17 inch grip. At 5’6” I choke down 2 inches and love the counterbalanced feel which gives me more control especially on shorter putts. Great comparison video. After spending $648 for my DF3, I Definitely won’t be spending any more $ on this OZ. Love the shape, feel of the DF3.
If you love the feel of DF3, you’re golden! I love the shape of DF3, and I’m very reluctant to order Oz.1 just because It feels better to me. The DF3 felt more balanced which I’m kicking myself I didn’t mention.
@ yeah the stability of the DF3 is awesome. And I love the looks of it. Side note, I never tried the MEZZ one or the MEZZ ONE MAX. They look kinda weird to be honest
This was the heavy head option and it doesn’t feel heavy! I’ve never actually tried a standard version, however, all the feedback on the forums says to go for heavy otherwise they feel too lite.
Hey mate! Happy new year😊 I'm interested in lab and gonna save up money. I allways gravitate to blades, so want to go for the link1. But I can't test them anywhere. Can you do a link1 video? It's many out there, but seen u now with diffrent labs, I kind of get what "you feel"😅 so would really appreciate! Cheers
They do take some getting used too, but once you adapt into them, they’re great! I’ve never felt so confident in my approach. Once I’m linked up, I’m so confident.
Firstly to you, your family and to your readers, HAPPY NEW YEAR from Canada. Hopefully you are all with your families and friends enjoying New Years dinner. I am similar to one of the responders, I try to practice on the practice greens of whatever course I am playing. (Not bright enough to know the difference between the grass varieties). I also get there at least 30 minutes before my buddies and I carry a 1 foot metal ruler so that I can determine how many inches back to go X feet. Probably my imagination, LOL, but I need every bit of information that I can get. Thank You for the videos. Now, I have to ask if will you ever review the DF3 (or OZ) with a broomstick shaft??
Hey George, all the best for 2025! Lovely message and all the best to you too. I would love to say yes George, but unless Lab can see any value in these videos and help me out by sending us some products, I may struggle as they’re not so avalible in the UK. We have limited stockists. I will message them though, I’ve got a friend who putts with an old battered broom handle, so he’d be out perfect tester!
100%! I couldn’t justify buying it on my first DF3 custom order, I opted for the Accra instead. When I tested them indoors on fast greens, I was pleased with my decision, however, I then compare them on slow greens where I needed to swing the DF3 longer and faster and that’s when the TPT really came into its own. The TPT gives so much more feel and feedback on longer putts for me, is it worth $400?! I don’t even have that kind of money to upgrade, but, it’s better!!! I can’t answer if is worth it, I mean if you’re leaving no stone upturned and want the ultimate, yes! I hate to say it, but I wish I’d never tried it now 😫😭
@ Thank you Gary and I was afraid you would say that!!! I emailed LAB to see if I could return my DF 3 for re-shafting, will see what they have to say after the holiday! Cheers and love the content and your efforts to share your knowledge/experience with us! Cheers from the colonies!
Happy New year Gaz and the channel, on the speed off the face if you have to have a fast putter face of course I get it, the only thing I always think is every course and everyday you play the greens will be different speeds anyway. 15-30 minutes on the putting green(if its the same as the course greens) should get you into the pace for that day. I understand the longer stroke might not feel good etc, but then even a fast face is going to be needed to be hit harder than normal with a slower green. I would always go with the best overall feeling putter, speed is in your head/hands on the day as if you got the insert would that mean you couldnt putt on super fast greens?
I know what you’re saying, but I would say the OZ.1 feels just like a normal everyday putter face. I’m saying it’s quicker than the DF3, but that’s a very quiet face in my opinion, yes feels nice, but definitely a putter i feel needs hitting! Ive always been someone who has loved quick greens and the quieter I can keep my stroke, the better I putt, so the OZ.1 I wouldn’t anticipate being any issue to me personally. It’s rough and smooth on club face, you’re right, greens change and I guess it comes down to wether you want a soft feel (if you’re aggressive) or firmer feel (if you’re smooth).
Great video Gary cheers mate, I am so nibbling at the OZ1 love the idea of these zero torque putters and will be buying one but not out until February you have to pre-order ☹
Gary, What shaft is in the current DF3: ACCRA x L.A.B or GEARS x L.A.B. Golf ? What shaft will you select for your next DF3 : This one : L.A.B. Golf x TPT Shaft ? Also Alignment mark (b)?
I just received confirmation that my custom DF 3 is being built. I ordered it just before the OZ was released. I’m sure I will be happy but if I had the option at the time, I might have chosen the OZ. 🤷
I had an issue with the forward shaft lean of the DF3 and the press grip. It confused me in lining up the putt. I switched to a Link and feel more comfortable with aiming that. I may check out the Oz with 0 degree lean
I did feel the same! Honestly, after 2 weeks I nearly gave up, it was only when I went to Turkey in the sun and had a selection of other putters to test that I realised, I wasn’t any better with them, so I committed to the DF3, worked on alignment and then realised I’d been over controlling the head instead of swinging the putter freely after getting aligned. For anybody reading, there is a transition into lab in my experience and from what I’ve read on the forums and comments.
That’s what I’m feeling. I hope lab is reading this, because I think they’ve lead us to loving DF3, so the sooner we can get that head with different face options the better.
Great putting vlog in general* -- emphasising those finer skills and drills for honing sound technique as you do -- thank you! ( * = will apply to our, quietly satisfactory, Ping Prime Tyne 4 ).
DF3 feels 100% more stable (I’m not saying OZ doesn’t feel stable, it’s just not as balanced as DF3). OZ.1 face feels better to me (I generally play on slower greens). I’m personally praying for a DF3.1 very soon! Until then, I might persist with DF3 as that’s the head I really want deep down.
@ thanks for answering, I forgot to ask. Aside from obviously looking pretty cool do you think it’s worth upgrading to the TPT shaft or just staying as standard? Have you noticed any tangible performance/feel differences that may justify it?
If you’re happy with the speed off the mezz, you should be golden. I didn’t know until reading the comments, a lot have said the mezz face is a touch hotter than DF3.
The D/F 3 is a great putter, gamed one for a while. If you want it to feel, look, and react like a Scotty Cameron it is like buying a Maserati and complaining it doesn’t drive like my old Yugo.
Really struggle with zero torque but… after some mote testing I might just be all of the big mallets I struggle with not the zero torque… would love you to test the Link1 PLEASE gaz 🤞
Gas the DS3 looks as if it has marked up quite badly and I see a few marks on the oz too. Not great for a premium product? Could you comment on this please.
I didn’t. There is no information anywhere. When I asked the question in the lab forum, nobody knew the answer but everyone felt the same, the OZ.1 feels heavier in the head.
Gaz From what I saw you putted better with the Oz on those short putts - every single one was centred on the stick and never looked like missing. Give it a go for a while and I reckon this would be your preferred LAB because the weight/insert is what you have been used to.
Yeah, looking forward to putting them head to head. I’m going to get a mid handicappers perspective as well, someone who isn’t so clued up on the technology and zero torque argument.
You used a blue DF3 in today’s video that had a minimal alignment aid. What happened to the green one? Do you feel the blue one is more helpful to your style of putting?
This blue one is just the same specs as the Oz.1, however, I do prefer the minimal alignments and it’s certainly more helpful to my putting style. It helps me focus on swinging the putter with freedom rather than being over controlling with the head. Cheers John
For that sort of investment I’d want to see consistent results reducing the number of putts per round by 2,3 or 4 regularly and lowering my scores. But do they?
When it goes in the bag, it will definitely be my gamer, so I guess the results will be a good guide. I can’t confirm that yet; all I can confirm, is I fell so assured over a putt and feel like I’m going to hole it.
As a recent DF3 adopter, maybe I can provide some insight. It took about 2 weeks of having / using the putter before I really started to see results, but since then I can say with 100% certainty that I have saved multiple strokes every round due to my DF3. Long putts are more likely to track in or lag close, and making those short testers has become a LOT easier. No putter is magic, I still make bad reads or hit putts with the wrong speed, but I rarely ever feel like I push or pull putts off my intended line anymore, and that’s a really good feeling.
I had reconstructive shoulder surgery and at the end of my rehabilitation ordered a LAB DF3 and practiced with it for two months before I could actually play golf again. It does take a little time to get used to it but when you do, the results are there. Once I could swing full again I went 23 rounds without a 3 putt. Only 3 three putts in 55 rounds last season (winter here now) Inside 15 feet, it’s amazing. Definitely do the fitting.
On the length of stroke did you take into account the small head (front to back) into how far the putt will roll? The OZ actually goes back farther with a smaller head.
I did account for that by measuring to the leading edge of the clubface. The shaft location is identically placed, so the test was as accurate as I could do. Cheers
@@garymartingolf I saw that right after I posted!😂 I am looking forward to your next LAB review! Hopefully comparing the 2 OZ versions, plus the one without forward press.
Brilliant question. I couldn’t justify buying TPT on my DF3 build. When I tested them indoors on which greens, I couldn’t tell any difference, obviously TPT looked unreal! I then compared them in slow greens where I needed to swing the DF3 longer longer and faster and that’s when the TPT stood out for greater feel! It’s superior for feel on longer putts, it makes my Accra feel dead 💀 To be quite honest, I wish I’d never tested it as a $400 putter shaft upgrade seems criminal, but now I know it’s better, I’ve shot myself in the foot!
Sorry Gaz - looks more of a harder stroke with the OZ to my eye. However, I found I needed around 10% more effort for the same distance with the DF3 than I did with the Mez.
Must admit I like the look of the OZ but don't you think that the putter is the one club you should stick with (when you've found one you like), I think they become an extension of your arms when you get it right..... I've had my Odyssey White Steel ever since I started playing and never felt the need to change it, I still like the feel and look of it and am pretty good with it, I put this down to sticking with even when some days are not so good.If anything goes wrong I put it down to me and not the club but that OZ 1 does look nice though......... maybe time for a chat🤔🤔🤔🤔............. 🌟🎊🤩🥳
@ thanks for the reply and that’s interesting you didn’t hear it when filming. Anyway can’t wait to get my df3 and should be here soon. Lab golf seems to be the way forward and the rest are playing catchup. 🤙
The best putters in the world in 2025 onwards will most likely use a Lab or some other zero torque putter applied with their talent! Talent is key to anything and nobody is saying the putter will put the ball in the hole for you, but if you find a theory that helps, it’s good!
Have you tried the shaft lean. Paired with a press grip, they’re great! I made the mistake of taking the press off, but I’ve re-ordered one 😅 Hopefully we’ll be able to get hold of zero lean though, it would be good to try and compare, who knows, it could be better! 😅 If you haven’t tried the lean, you don’t know it’s leaning with the press grip on.
Great video Gary. For anyone that's enjoying these awesome videos from Gary Martin Golf, if you are not SUBSCRIBED.....PLEASE SUBSCRIBE NOW....He works as hard as anyone on TH-cam and deserves your subscription. Thank you everyone, God Bless and Happy New Year to all.
Here’s what I don’t understand. I play with a DF3 on fast greens. Putter has a soft feel. Perfect for fast to very fast greens. So if the new OZ face is hotter why would a player want to use it on very fast greens. Why did LAB and Adam Scott work together to design the OZ model when he putts on very fast greens all the time. If you play on slow greens most of the time, I could see using the OZ.
I personally don’t think I’d have any issue on fast greens with the OZ.1i The OZ.1i is hotter than the DF3, but I wouldn’t say it’s hot in comparison to the market. Have you not ever found it hard to get the ball to hole without hitting hard the DF3 hard on long putts ?
Is it me or have we not seen this type of technology before. Odyssey backstryke putters from about 15 years ago. Before that never compromise and seemore. Golf seems to have a habit of just recycling old tech
How about a match with Dan, James and Chris where you all use a putter that you absolutely hate the look, feel, sound, grip, weight, etc. in other words, a putter that you have zero confidence that you can get a ball close to the hole. Not an old, falling apart putter, although that might be interesting, too🤣
@@garymartingolf Thanks for the compliment. If it becomes channel content I hope it makes for good banter. Would love to see you and Dan take on Liam and OMP this year for a fiver and a pint.
Not likely to happen. These guys don't play 18 hole competitive stroke play rounds. Could negatively impact the image of those that don't win. Could also call into question their self-professed handicap, i.e., "scratch" golfers.
Personally I would go with the DF3 over the Oz, I don't want a putter with a "Hot" face I want "You get out what you put in" pardon the pun. Look what happens when you chip with "Hot face" game improvement irons, consistency goes so does your confidence and with putting confidence is paramount.
Have you tried them though? I’m saying the OZ.1 is hot compared to DF3, but DF3 is one of the softest feeling un powerful faces I’ve tried. I’m not knocking it as for people who play quick greens a lot, it’s probably great, but out in the uk, the OZ.1 face is just normal and allows us to not have to whack the ball.
@@garymartingolf I love the "feel" off the DF3 face especially paying more when the season starts and greens speed up. I'm sure the Oz1 will be a cracking putter for another section of the market but I do like looking at the DF3.
I think you'll find that you're testing teh OZ.1.i not the OZ.1 as the putter you're testing has the insert in the face. The OZ.1 has the same face as the DF.3 (viz no insert)
Went round with a guy with one of these lab putters and his putting was nothing short of terrible , in truth he may well be appalling without it but it certainly didnt improve his ability to see the slope ,start the ball online or judge the pace .
Nobody is claiming these putters are magic. It’s like putting me in an F1 car, I’d probably have more change of getting around the track in a fiesta. If you buy a Lab putter, you need to invest your time into learning how to use it.
I’m seriously confused watching these videos on the putters and the technology. Talk about shaft flex, how much does a shaft flex on a putter? it’s not like your swinging it as per a normal golf stroke. Yes if the shaft was rubber but I dont think most metal shafts flex in normal usage. Zero torque? You use a device to show how these putters stay in position if free to move, but they are not free to move your holding it. Is the putter really generating that much torque in a stroke in normal use that it conflicts with being held? With the putters your showing here, neither look attractive to me, as I’ve always used blade shaped putters, and I like a metal Face the only mallet Type design I’ve ever tried was my dads with an insert and it was as dead as a dodo regarding the ball Coming off the face. Having said all the above Gary I would try one out but would never buy a putter mail order or without actually holding it / trying it.
You must of seen the video we did with sam lab, the data does show why zero torque helps, especially with me who can’t find the middle of a putter. I know what you’re saying about the hold, I thought the same! But you ask anyone who’s used a lab for a few weeks, you go back to a normal putter and it feels like the head is all over the place and so unbalanced. I’d of also said the same on shafts, and even after tested them indoors side by side I still thought the same! It wasn’t until I put them head to head on longer putts that I felt the benefit of TPT, but of course, justifying $400 upgrade is insane! This issue is, if it’s better, and you genuinely feel it like me, you’re stuck!
@ I must admit I am conflicted by my Yorkshire background short arms deep Pockets, putting is the majority of your round on manicured surfaces. It’s about touch and feel. My putter cost £80 a basic blade shaped putters, to then go £4-500 just seems crazy. I suppose proof is in the pudding
I know, it’s a very bad habit of mine. If you saw the lab exposed video, it shows how I don’t lose anything with lab, but when I do it with a normal putter, sam lab was scoring me about 28% for strike. I am trying to improve.
Happy New Year Gaz and Dan, and the ole nemesis James R 😂. I can understand the benefits these putters bring to the game, I've tried centre shafted putters before and just couldn't get on with the look, and these are just a bit expensive to experiment with, as your mistake shows it could be an expensive experiment, odyssey ai-one rossie s staying for a while yet 🏌️
I don’t usually comment. But as a Df3 owner this is exactly what I needed! Thank you!!
really enjoying this LAB series, keep them coming!
Thanks 👌🏼
Martin must have a LAB video quota to meet.
@ who’s put a 2 pence in you 🤣🤣
I never thought I'd say this about a LAB putter, but damn that new OZ looks good!!
Was nice to just see you and James today at waterfront even though very briefly just wanted to tell you how much I enjoy your videos cheers and happy new year hope you have a great one 👍
Cheers buddy. Really appreciated, all the best for 2025 🤟🏼
Blindly ordered a stock DF3 early last spring just to give it a shot. Absolutely the best putter I have ever owned. I have always been a pretty good putter but struggled with longer distance control. The Oz looks cool but honestly I dont have any interest in even trying another putter, although I may eventually order a custom DF3 and give the Accra shaft a go.
Like the comparisons and nice to see ya get your hands on a Oz. Hopefully the Oz insert ends up working out great and they come out with the df3 with insert. Happy new years btw!
I can see how you might want a hotter face if you're usually playing on slower greens, but I've personally grown to love the DF3 for it's softer face. It seems to me that a hotter face makes it more difficult to be precise with your distance.
First time LAB user here. Just received my DF3, weather here in NY isn’t great but rolled it on a practice green. I have the heavier head option and I like and maybe something to look into Gary!
Went to the DF3 and haven’t looked back ! I’ve always been a decent putter but sometimes struggled with 4-6’ range, with the DF3 I’ve saved 3-4 putts on average per round, awesome putter. Scotty has been moved to the B rig 😊
Thank you for your response! I've been playing the DF3 for about 8 months and really like it. I am interested in the
oZ, but at $600-$700...? Think I'll stick with the DF for now!
Great comparison. The blue DF3 looks amazing. OZ rolled straighter. Perhaps you should play a few rounds with each and see how many you leave short with the DF3. If your speed is good with it, that might be your forever putter.
One thing I noticed is that the OZi1 face puts a more positive roll off the face. LAB is only 2hrs from me so I'm going to head down there for a fitting soon.
Happy New Year and the I would really like to hear your thoughts on Bettinardi Antidote mallet compared to the LAB putter and if I go lab it’s definitely going to be the OZ
Great review. I was thinking of trading in my jailbird putter and go with the Lab OZ. This gave me some great information to go off of. Thank you.
Gaz, you and James Robinson need an early 2025 match. Your swing and stroke look great, time for you to get the WIN. God Bless brother
I beat him on his channel about 2 weeks ago, I don’t know if you’ll ever see it lol 😂 We will though, although he does become harder to get hold of when you’re playing well 😄
@@garymartingolf which one felt like less wiggle in your stroke, and 'on track'? similar of more on track stroke with df3?
@@garymartingolf isn't that always the truth bud
Good comparison review. Six of one, half-dozen of the other! I'm thinking they should make a DF3 variant with the insert.
If they make a DF3.1, I’m all in, no if or buts, I’ll go homeless if I have too.
@@garymartingolf They are making a DF3 version with the insert. I believe it can be ordered in February.
@ how do you know?
@ I’ve also heard it, but I’ve not seen it in black and white 😏
@@garymartingolf ask your mate Sam..... Haha
I’ll guarantee I’ll see more LAB putters on the course this year, I met four other users with them on my travels last season and despite the various ribbings I got when I invested, people are now asking me about my Link 1.
The same guys who wouldn’t bat an eyelid about spending similar or more on a driver.
When you set it on a line it stays on that line , so it’s all about pace
You seem to roll the DF3 better on the longer putts. Waiting for the link 1 to have an insert. Have tested the DF3, just find it too soft, no feed back.
Great video Gaz and if I was building a LAB putter I would go for the DF3
DF3.1 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
Gary, when you did the very first put between the DF3 & OZ.1i. How much farther did the Putz go with the Oz? You didn’t stay at a distance difference but from the video it looks like they were going 5-7 feet farther.
@@timfranklin8699 Sorry, you're right, I should of showed you a closer look with some rough measurements. Yes, I would say 5 to 7 feet exactly. Thanks
Thank you for this research video. You are on "YOUR" putter journey; like so many journeys in golf. My 2 cents is that you should play two/three times on different types of green speeds. You might end up having both for different playing conditions and just how you are putting that day with a particlurer putter. I have a DF3 (love it, love the confidence it give me) and I have problems with real long putts and distance control (dampened feel) because the the amount of energy in the swing.
When it will come to test and compare the OZ.1i with the OZ.1, it might be important to use the ball one always uses to play on courses to find out the best combination of ball and putter face with or without insert
Very very good point! 👌🏼👌🏼
@@garymartingolf The face selection is another possibility to make the wrong decision besides measurements, shaft, shaft lean, color, alignment mark front/rear, grip and weight
Great video but i love my 2.1 , I wasn’t as keen on Dans DF3 when I tried it. I have a circle T in the garage that will struggle to get back in the bag. If the 2.1 doesn’t behave I can always fly it home 😉will give the oz a go if I get the chance but definitely will be going down the LAB route for my next putter if I stop loving the 2.1.
I get where you are coming from with the df3 it feels like you have to give putts a real bang on slow greens. The technology works though as the ball rolls end over end. It’s a shame you can’t have a springy insert in the df3. After buying the df3 I’m going to stick with it for now but could be interested in trying the OZ
I’m going to do that same now I’ve had more time to consider things. I do love it, but if a DF3i comes out, I’m going to have to sell the missus
Gary, Beautiful castle as a clubhouse in the background. Nice ! I’m a big fan of LAB. As I’ve said on here and many other channels, I was remotely custom fit for my DF3 over last summer. 72 degree lie angle, 36 inch, counterbalanced, heavier head, LAB SS 3.0 17 inch grip. At 5’6” I choke down 2 inches and love the counterbalanced feel which gives me more control especially on shorter putts.
Great comparison video. After spending $648 for my DF3, I Definitely won’t be spending any more $ on this OZ. Love the shape, feel of the DF3.
If you love the feel of DF3, you’re golden! I love the shape of DF3, and I’m very reluctant to order Oz.1 just because It feels better to me. The DF3 felt more balanced which I’m kicking myself I didn’t mention.
@ yeah the stability of the DF3 is awesome. And I love the looks of it. Side note, I never tried the MEZZ one or the MEZZ ONE MAX. They look kinda weird to be honest
I got the DF3 being build at moment, went for the heavier head for UK greens
Great stuff! Would you recommend the heavier head option for the OZ as well playing in the UK?
This was the heavy head option and it doesn’t feel heavy! I’ve never actually tried a standard version, however, all the feedback on the forums says to go for heavy otherwise they feel too lite.
@@garymartingolfawesome, Thank you👍
Hey mate! Happy new year😊 I'm interested in lab and gonna save up money. I allways gravitate to blades, so want to go for the link1. But I can't test them anywhere. Can you do a link1 video? It's many out there, but seen u now with diffrent labs, I kind of get what "you feel"😅 so would really appreciate! Cheers
Never tried a lab putter, but I like the concept as anything to help hole more putts would be a benefit.
They do take some getting used too, but once you adapt into them, they’re great! I’ve never felt so confident in my approach. Once I’m linked up, I’m so confident.
Happy New Year!!! Love your channel :)
Firstly to you, your family and to your readers, HAPPY NEW YEAR from Canada. Hopefully you are all with your families and friends enjoying New Years dinner. I am similar to one of the responders, I try to practice on the practice greens of whatever course I am playing. (Not bright enough to know the difference between the grass varieties). I also get there at least 30 minutes before my buddies and I carry a 1 foot metal ruler so that I can determine how many inches back to go X feet. Probably my imagination, LOL, but I need every bit of information that I can get. Thank You for the videos. Now, I have to ask if will you ever review the DF3 (or OZ) with a broomstick shaft??
Hey George, all the best for 2025! Lovely message and all the best to you too.
I would love to say yes George, but unless Lab can see any value in these videos and help me out by sending us some products, I may struggle as they’re not so avalible in the UK. We have limited stockists.
I will message them though, I’ve got a friend who putts with an old battered broom handle, so he’d be out perfect tester!
Thanks for the review!!! I have the DF3 and DF2.1 and love them!!! Would you share how you felt about the shaft? For $400 is it worth it IYO? Cheers
100%!
I couldn’t justify buying it on my first DF3 custom order, I opted for the Accra instead.
When I tested them indoors on fast greens, I was pleased with my decision, however, I then compare them on slow greens where I needed to swing the DF3 longer and faster and that’s when the TPT really came into its own. The TPT gives so much more feel and feedback on longer putts for me, is it worth $400?!
I don’t even have that kind of money to upgrade, but, it’s better!!!
I can’t answer if is worth it, I mean if you’re leaving no stone upturned and want the ultimate, yes!
I hate to say it, but I wish I’d never tried it now 😫😭
@ Thank you Gary and I was afraid you would say that!!! I emailed LAB to see if I could return my DF 3 for re-shafting, will see what they have to say after the holiday! Cheers and love the content and your efforts to share your knowledge/experience with us! Cheers from the colonies!
@ By the way, two of my golf friends found the TPT really helped with lag putts, and match well to their softer feeling DF 3 putters. FYI
@ I’ve fell in love with this blue one, but it’s not mine! I agree, it does match up better with DF3 compared to Accra.
Happy New year Gaz and the channel, on the speed off the face if you have to have a fast putter face of course I get it, the only thing I always think is every course and everyday you play the greens will be different speeds anyway. 15-30 minutes on the putting green(if its the same as the course greens) should get you into the pace for that day. I understand the longer stroke might not feel good etc, but then even a fast face is going to be needed to be hit harder than normal with a slower green. I would always go with the best overall feeling putter, speed is in your head/hands on the day as if you got the insert would that mean you couldnt putt on super fast greens?
I know what you’re saying, but I would say the OZ.1 feels just like a normal everyday putter face. I’m saying it’s quicker than the DF3, but that’s a very quiet face in my opinion, yes feels nice, but definitely a putter i feel needs hitting!
Ive always been someone who has loved quick greens and the quieter I can keep my stroke, the better I putt, so the OZ.1 I wouldn’t anticipate being any issue to me personally.
It’s rough and smooth on club face, you’re right, greens change and I guess it comes down to wether you want a soft feel (if you’re aggressive) or firmer feel (if you’re smooth).
Loving the testing of the LAB putters, I wonder if Sam can chage the weights in the DF3 to give you a slightly heavier feel ?
You can have it heavier if you want they add more weight in the build
Great video Gary cheers mate, I am so nibbling at the OZ1 love the idea of these zero torque putters and will be buying one but not out until February you have to pre-order ☹
I wasn’t even aware of that, I must just be the US where they’re available to order now then.
@@garymartingolf Scottsdales at Warrington will fit you into one but you have to wait until February ..... Its killing me I want one 😂😂
Gary,
What shaft is in the current DF3: ACCRA x L.A.B or GEARS x L.A.B. Golf ?
What shaft will you select for your next DF3 :
This one : L.A.B. Golf x TPT Shaft ? Also Alignment mark (b)?
I just received confirmation that my custom DF 3 is being built. I ordered it just before the OZ was released. I’m sure I will be happy but if I had the option at the time, I might have chosen the OZ. 🤷
I’ve tried both and I still prefer the DF3 personally. I do like the firmer face, but I don’t think I’ll be swapping to the Oz head just for that.
I love the DF3. I went for the heavy weight one with upgrade shaft to offset some elements of the soft face.
Which shaft did you go for ?
@ not the tpt one, the Accra one.
I had an issue with the forward shaft lean of the DF3 and the press grip. It confused me in lining up the putt. I switched to a Link and feel more comfortable with aiming that. I may check out the Oz with 0 degree lean
I did feel the same! Honestly, after 2 weeks I nearly gave up, it was only when I went to Turkey in the sun and had a selection of other putters to test that I realised, I wasn’t any better with them, so I committed to the DF3, worked on alignment and then realised I’d been over controlling the head instead of swinging the putter freely after getting aligned.
For anybody reading, there is a transition into lab in my experience and from what I’ve read on the forums and comments.
@@garymartingolf thanks for the reply and advice!
DF3 with that new insert and a 33” length and I’d be seriously interested. ⛳️
That’s what I’m feeling. I hope lab is reading this, because I think they’ve lead us to loving DF3, so the sooner we can get that head with different face options the better.
Well done gaz have a great new year m8 😊
Same to you Roy! We’ve got some good playing vlogs coming up from Friday onwards. Have a great 2025 🙌🏽
🔥 love the look of them both
Great putting vlog in general* -- emphasising those finer skills and drills for honing sound technique as you do -- thank you!
( * = will apply to our, quietly satisfactory, Ping Prime Tyne 4 ).
which one feels better and which one feels more stable are they both the same weight?
DF3 feels 100% more stable (I’m not saying OZ doesn’t feel stable, it’s just not as balanced as DF3).
OZ.1 face feels better to me (I generally play on slower greens).
I’m personally praying for a DF3.1 very soon! Until then, I might persist with DF3 as that’s the head I really want deep down.
@ cheers mate, I may be the minority but I actually think the Df3 looks better especially in that setup you have
@ thanks for answering, I forgot to ask. Aside from obviously looking pretty cool do you think it’s worth upgrading to the TPT shaft or just staying as standard? Have you noticed any tangible performance/feel differences that may justify it?
What about the Oz without the insert?
I am glad that the LAB putters are not all the same. I play fast greens, and this tells me to avoid the insert. Currently I play a Mezz.
If you’re happy with the speed off the mezz, you should be golden. I didn’t know until reading the comments, a lot have said the mezz face is a touch hotter than DF3.
@@garymartingolf That's interesting. I would prefer a slower face, so I should look harder at the DF3. Thank you.
The D/F 3 is a great putter, gamed one for a while. If you want it to feel, look, and react like a Scotty Cameron it is like buying a Maserati and complaining it doesn’t drive like my old Yugo.
Really struggle with zero torque but… after some mote testing I might just be all of the big mallets I struggle with not the zero torque… would love you to test the Link1 PLEASE gaz 🤞
What I don't like about the DF3 is the sharp leading edge getting caught on the turf. Does the OZ have a more rounded off leading edge?
I’ll have to have a closer look at that, I’ve not personally had this issue, but I’ll have a close look and post some pictures of the leading edges.
@@garymartingolf that would be very helpful for me. About an hour drive to the closest PGA Superstore for me to see one. 😎
Great review.
Do you think that LAB may do an insert int the DF3?
Yes, 100%. With the DF3 being such an iconic head, I’m sure it’ll be at some point soon.
Gas the DS3 looks as if it has marked up quite badly and I see a few marks on the oz too. Not great for a premium product? Could you comment on this please.
Hi did you put the mass on the screen? I didn’t see it thanks!
I didn’t. There is no information anywhere. When I asked the question in the lab forum, nobody knew the answer but everyone felt the same, the OZ.1 feels heavier in the head.
@ awesome thanks. I have a couple df3s and an oz in the air to me - I’ll weigh them and check!
I really wanna get some more reviews on the 0 degree shaft lean option
Having read the comments, you’re not the only one. I’ll see if I can get hold of one to test.
Gaz
From what I saw you putted better with the Oz on those short putts - every single one was centred on the stick and never looked like missing. Give it a go for a while and I reckon this would be your preferred LAB because the weight/insert is what you have been used to.
They’re not my putters unfortunately ☹️ I’ll watch it back 👌🏼
Happy New Year!
Loving my DF3
It’s definitely the most balanced and forgiving out of the two. I do love my friends DF3 🔥
Hot faced putters are always tricky on those slippery short down hill putts.
Hot is a comparison to DF3 though. If I was comparing it to a scotty, I’d just be saying it’s normal.
Would like to see these compared to the axis1 putters.
Yeah, looking forward to putting them head to head. I’m going to get a mid handicappers perspective as well, someone who isn’t so clued up on the technology and zero torque argument.
You used a blue DF3 in today’s video that had a minimal alignment aid. What happened to the green one? Do you feel the blue one is more helpful to your style of putting?
Blue one is his mates. I believe it is also heavier than standard.
This blue one is just the same specs as the Oz.1, however, I do prefer the minimal alignments and it’s certainly more helpful to my putting style. It helps me focus on swinging the putter with freedom rather than being over controlling with the head.
Cheers John
@@garymartingolf in the unboxing you said all had heavier head weight.
For that sort of investment I’d want to see consistent results reducing the number of putts per round by 2,3 or 4 regularly and lowering my scores. But do they?
When it goes in the bag, it will definitely be my gamer, so I guess the results will be a good guide. I can’t confirm that yet; all I can confirm, is I fell so assured over a putt and feel like I’m going to hole it.
As a recent DF3 adopter, maybe I can provide some insight. It took about 2 weeks of having / using the putter before I really started to see results, but since then I can say with 100% certainty that I have saved multiple strokes every round due to my DF3. Long putts are more likely to track in or lag close, and making those short testers has become a LOT easier. No putter is magic, I still make bad reads or hit putts with the wrong speed, but I rarely ever feel like I push or pull putts off my intended line anymore, and that’s a really good feeling.
I had reconstructive shoulder surgery and at the end of my rehabilitation ordered a LAB DF3 and practiced with it for two months before I could actually play golf again. It does take a little time to get used to it but when you do, the results are there. Once I could swing full again I went 23 rounds without a 3 putt. Only 3 three putts in 55 rounds last season (winter here now) Inside 15 feet, it’s amazing. Definitely do the fitting.
On the length of stroke did you take into account the small head (front to back) into how far the putt will roll? The OZ actually goes back farther with a smaller head.
Should have watched more before I asked my question! I always seem to do this!
I did account for that by measuring to the leading edge of the clubface. The shaft location is identically placed, so the test was as accurate as I could do. Cheers
@@garymartingolf I saw that right after I posted!😂 I am looking forward to your next LAB review! Hopefully comparing the 2 OZ versions, plus the one without forward press.
Hey Gary,
Great video. What differences have you noticed between the Accra shaft and the TPT? In your opinion, is it worth the upgrade?
Brilliant question.
I couldn’t justify buying TPT on my DF3 build.
When I tested them indoors on which greens, I couldn’t tell any difference, obviously TPT looked unreal!
I then compared them in slow greens where I needed to swing the DF3 longer longer and faster and that’s when the TPT stood out for greater feel!
It’s superior for feel on longer putts, it makes my Accra feel dead 💀
To be quite honest, I wish I’d never tested it as a $400 putter shaft upgrade seems criminal, but now I know it’s better, I’ve shot myself in the foot!
Martin is that the standard weight fitting on the DF3 head?
There both heavy 🤟🏼
@ I brought the standard, and think I should have brought the heavy too, do you have a standard and heavy comparison you could possibly do in a vid?
What about MOI between the two?
DF3 with the insert!!!
Turkey or Rotherham Gaz? It's difficult to tell
Haha 😭😭 I’m home! ☔️
Sorry Gaz - looks more of a harder stroke with the OZ to my eye. However, I found I needed around 10% more effort for the same distance with the DF3 than I did with the Mez.
Must admit I like the look of the OZ but don't you think that the putter is the one club you should stick with (when you've found one you like), I think they become an extension of your arms when you get it right..... I've had my Odyssey White Steel ever since I started playing and never felt the need to change it, I still like the feel and look of it and am pretty good with it, I put this down to sticking with even when some days are not so good.If anything goes wrong I put it down to me and not the club but that OZ 1 does look nice though......... maybe time for a chat🤔🤔🤔🤔.............
🌟🎊🤩🥳
Love my Df3
Happy new year Gaz, looking at this video i think you need a fair bit of practice. On the video the OZ sounds very clicky and a cheap sound.
Happy new year bud. Hahah 😅
I personally didn’t pick up on the sound being undesirable, but all these things will come down to personal preference.
@ thanks for the reply and that’s interesting you didn’t hear it when filming. Anyway can’t wait to get my df3 and should be here soon. Lab golf seems to be the way forward and the rest are playing catchup. 🤙
How did the best putterd in the world putt so well? Talent
The best putters in the world in 2025 onwards will most likely use a Lab or some other zero torque putter applied with their talent!
Talent is key to anything and nobody is saying the putter will put the ball in the hole for you, but if you find a theory that helps, it’s good!
Would be great to see you get you hands on a zero shaft lean version of the OZ, very tempted for one of those
Have you tried the shaft lean. Paired with a press grip, they’re great! I made the mistake of taking the press off, but I’ve re-ordered one 😅
Hopefully we’ll be able to get hold of zero lean though, it would be good to try and compare, who knows, it could be better! 😅
If you haven’t tried the lean, you don’t know it’s leaning with the press grip on.
“Don’t worry I’m not trying to hole them.”. 😂 Tough school up there if the members expect you to be canning everything from 30ft😳🤣
I didn’t want them thinking I was blazing putts 8 foot past my accident lol 😂
Great video Gary. For anyone that's enjoying these awesome videos from Gary Martin Golf, if you are not SUBSCRIBED.....PLEASE SUBSCRIBE NOW....He works as hard as anyone on TH-cam and deserves your subscription. Thank you everyone, God Bless and Happy New Year to all.
Very nice comment, appreciated, thank you 👌🏼
Here’s what I don’t understand. I play with a DF3 on fast greens. Putter has a soft feel. Perfect for fast to very fast greens. So if the new OZ face is hotter why would a player want to use it on very fast greens. Why did LAB and Adam Scott work together to design the OZ model when he putts on very fast greens all the time. If you play on slow greens most of the time, I could see using the OZ.
I personally don’t think I’d have any issue on fast greens with the OZ.1i The OZ.1i is hotter than the DF3, but I wouldn’t say it’s hot in comparison to the market.
Have you not ever found it hard to get the ball to hole without hitting hard the DF3 hard on long putts ?
@ truth is, I’m still getting used to the DF3. I putt on fast greens all the time. I need more work before I can make a final determination.
Is it me or have we not seen this type of technology before. Odyssey backstryke putters from about 15 years ago. Before that never compromise and seemore. Golf seems to have a habit of just recycling old tech
How about a match with Dan, James and Chris where you all use a putter that you absolutely hate the look, feel, sound, grip, weight, etc. in other words, a putter that you have zero confidence that you can get a ball close to the hole. Not an old, falling apart putter, although that might be interesting, too🤣
You’re great with the ideas! I love that 😄 I’ve made a note 📝 cracker!
@@garymartingolf Thanks for the compliment. If it becomes channel content I hope it makes for good banter. Would love to see you and Dan take on Liam and OMP this year for a fiver and a pint.
Not likely to happen. These guys don't play 18 hole competitive stroke play rounds. Could negatively impact the image of those that don't win. Could also call into question their self-professed handicap, i.e., "scratch" golfers.
Give Dan his putter back 😂
😭
"I'll put that up on screen"?
You can’t put information that’s not available. I’ve tried!
@@garymartingolf haha fair enough. Nice vid
Personally I would go with the DF3 over the Oz, I don't want a putter with a "Hot" face I want "You get out what you put in" pardon the pun. Look what happens when you chip with "Hot face" game improvement irons, consistency goes so does your confidence and with putting confidence is paramount.
Have you tried them though? I’m saying the OZ.1 is hot compared to DF3, but DF3 is one of the softest feeling un powerful faces I’ve tried. I’m not knocking it as for people who play quick greens a lot, it’s probably great, but out in the uk, the OZ.1 face is just normal and allows us to not have to whack the ball.
@@garymartingolf I love the "feel" off the DF3 face especially paying more when the season starts and greens speed up. I'm sure the Oz1 will be a cracking putter for another section of the market but I do like looking at the DF3.
I think you'll find that you're testing teh OZ.1.i not the OZ.1 as the putter you're testing has the insert in the face. The OZ.1 has the same face as the DF.3 (viz no insert)
Thanks for that, I’ll update where I can 👌🏼
Went round with a guy with one of these lab putters and his putting was nothing short of terrible , in truth he may well be appalling without it but it certainly didnt improve his ability to see the slope ,start the ball online or judge the pace .
Nobody is claiming these putters are magic. It’s like putting me in an F1 car, I’d probably have more change of getting around the track in a fiesta.
If you buy a Lab putter, you need to invest your time into learning how to use it.
its obvious ,steel vs aluminum . steel is going to hit harder.
I’m seriously confused watching these videos on the putters and the technology.
Talk about shaft flex, how much does a shaft flex on a putter? it’s not like your swinging it as per a normal golf stroke. Yes if the shaft was rubber but I dont think most metal shafts flex in normal usage.
Zero torque? You use a device to show how these putters stay in position if free to move, but they are not free to move your holding it. Is the putter really generating that much torque in a stroke in normal use that it conflicts with being held?
With the putters your showing here, neither look attractive to me, as I’ve always used blade shaped putters, and I like a metal Face the only mallet Type design I’ve ever tried was my dads with an insert and it was as dead as a dodo regarding the ball
Coming off the face.
Having said all the above Gary I would try one out but would never buy a putter mail order or without actually holding it / trying it.
You must of seen the video we did with sam lab, the data does show why zero torque helps, especially with me who can’t find the middle of a putter.
I know what you’re saying about the hold, I thought the same! But you ask anyone who’s used a lab for a few weeks, you go back to a normal putter and it feels like the head is all over the place and so unbalanced.
I’d of also said the same on shafts, and even after tested them indoors side by side I still thought the same! It wasn’t until I put them head to head on longer putts that I felt the benefit of TPT, but of course, justifying $400 upgrade is insane! This issue is, if it’s better, and you genuinely feel it like me, you’re stuck!
@ I must admit I am conflicted by my Yorkshire background short arms deep
Pockets, putting is the majority of your round on manicured surfaces. It’s about touch and feel. My putter cost £80 a basic blade shaped putters, to then go £4-500 just seems crazy.
I suppose proof is in the pudding
@ gary I’ll be planning a trip to Scottdale Golf as they have demo kits although the OZ1i with the insert not available until late Jan.
“Differance” -> “Difference”
Cheers
This madness has gotten out of control.
Your hitting some of your putts out of the toe gaz
I know, it’s a very bad habit of mine. If you saw the lab exposed video, it shows how I don’t lose anything with lab, but when I do it with a normal putter, sam lab was scoring me about 28% for strike. I am trying to improve.
Evnroll... that is all
If I can get hold of one, I’d love to test it 🔥
Happy New Year Gaz and Dan, and the ole nemesis James R 😂.
I can understand the benefits these putters bring to the game, I've tried centre shafted putters before and just couldn't get on with the look, and these are just a bit expensive to experiment with, as your mistake shows it could be an expensive experiment, odyssey ai-one rossie s staying for a while yet 🏌️
Love my DF3, can't thank LAB enough for their support #eastanglianairambulance #togetherwesavelives #edga #disabilityawareness #shotscope #taylormade #p770 #p790 #mg4 #proshotgolfclub #disabilityinsport #huofficialclothing #tp5 #labgolfputters #labgolf #df3 #flightscope #mevo #flightscopeuk #pulsioofficial #gxgolf #gxgolfgloves #golfballsofficial #woburngolfclub