LAB peeps who went from DF 2.1 to DF 3 ?

[manVSgolf]

10 minutes ago, Tiger_Stud said:

Thanks mate. I love soft feeling shafts, though. Does the TPT feel soft when hit in the center? Or is the "way better feedback" achieved by a harsh feeling shaft even with center strikes?

It’s not harsh at all.  The Accra is soft-soft, but the TPT is perfect.  Crisp, not harsh.

[JMathews]

6 minutes ago, manVSgolf said:

It’s not harsh at all.  The Accra is soft-soft, but the TPT is perfect.  Crisp, not harsh.

At least for standard length, I couldn't notice a real difference between Accra and TPT.  I would also say I was kind of rooting for the TPT and didn't notice anything.  I guess that is good for my wallet.  I know for the brooms it's a different story.

[Jeffinplano]

On 5/14/2024 at 3:43 PM, manVSgolf said:

The DF3 sounds and feels superior, IMO.  It feels 90% as stable (to me) while looking hugely sexier.  I enjoy the gimmie-getter, it’s a nice touch, and you can accessorize it with 3D printed caps from a fellow WRXer (they are on eBay).  
 

I have a DF3 CB and a standard both with TPTs and a standard with a stock shaft (I bought to compare).  Honestly, the stock shaft is really good.  The Accra feels the softest, the TPT does offer the best feedback (and per LAB the highest performance/consistency).  But anyone who plays with a stock shaft should feel just fine about that.  
 

Because this is WRX and we are golf psychos, if you know in your heart of hearts that not having the TPT is going to bother you, just get it - you will NOT regret it (as I’m sure you’ve seen with the 2.1).  I went crazy buying LABs with various shafts to compare - the TPT IS the best.  Worth $400?  To me yes.  To others, maybe not as much.  

 

 

Regarding the TPT, you mean it feels clickier than the Accra shaft? Does the TPT make the putter feel like a Ping PLD ? 

[manVSgolf]

55 minutes ago, Jeffinplano said:

Regarding the TPT, you mean it feels clickier than the Accra shaft? Does the TPT make the putter feel like a Ping PLD ? 

The best way I can describe it - crisp, solid, perfect (to me).  I cannot imagine a better putter shaft.  I have LABs with all of the shafts (BGT, LA Golf, Accra, standard steel - i also have a broomstick, 2 CBs (DF3, Mezz), and 2 standards (link, DF3) with TPTs - I can honestly tell you I prefer the TPT in ALL models.  I will also order a broomstick DF3 with TPT as soon as it’s up.  

[thesloth]

I might be in the minority but so far I am preferring the feel and roll of my DF2.1 with standard shaft over my DF3 with TPT shaft. It might just be that I need to spend more time with the DF3, but I find it more difficult to control my speed so far. Also, I find the lower, longer profile of the DF2.1 to fit my eye more than the shorter and taller blade length of the DF3. The DF2.1 just always seems to look square and inspire confidence with me and so far I'm not feeling that with the DF3. As I said, might just be needing more time, but it may also just be that I'm stuck with my grotesque beauty of a putter in the DF2.1. It's too bad. I really want to like the DF3 more because it is just such a better looking package than the DF2.1, but results are all that matters.

[ad_l1b]

Just got my DF3 in today, couldn't get them to change the markings as it went into production too fast (1st world problems for sure lol). 1000% loving it more than my 2.1. Rolling them back to back the DF3 just feels and sounds so much better. I got the heavier head and it feels better to me too. I think the TPT shaft has more impact on feel in the DF3 than it does on the 2.1, but I need to do more testing, could just be shiny new toy placebo. I'll probably list my DF 2.1 in a couple of weeks unless things go off the rails somehow.

So far SUPER glad I pulled the trigger. 

[Jeffinplano]

On 5/28/2024 at 11:19 AM, manVSgolf said:

The best way I can describe it - crisp, solid, perfect (to me).  I cannot imagine a better putter shaft.  I have LABs with all of the shafts (BGT, LA Golf, Accra, standard steel - i also have a broomstick, 2 CBs (DF3, Mezz), and 2 standards (link, DF3) with TPTs - I can honestly tell you I prefer the TPT in ALL models.  I will also order a broomstick DF3 with TPT as soon as it’s up.  

how would the steel shaft differ from TPT?

[ad_l1b]

32 minutes ago, Jeffinplano said:

how would the steel shaft differ from TPT?

TPT is a special carbon fiber weave, its stiffer and translates more information from the putter head. https://labgolf.com/pages/l-a-b-golf-by-tpt-putter-shafts

I'm not sure its game changing or anything like that, the tech in the head and the lie angle balancing is the real magic, the shaft is just the whipped cream and the cherry on top...skippable...but better? 

[3into2]

I'm on the cusp of purchasing my first LAB and I'm 95% certain I'll go with the DF 2.1 after taking plenty of strokes with the 2.1 and 3 (and both Mezz designs and the Link) on a retailer's putting green recently.  I called LAB to get their take on whether the 3 was worth it as a 5-year newer design and they said there's no fundamental tech improvements in the 3 over the 2.1.  They mentioned that the aesthetics of the 2.1 turned off plenty of folks as a primary impetus for the 3's design (2.1's looks didn't bother me at all) and they also mentioned the opportunity to go with a lighter/heavier head weight in the 3 that doesn't exist in the 2.1, but there's no appreciable tech step forward in the 3 compared to the 2.1.  The 2.1 felt a lot better to me than the 3 and the 2.1 performance was better for me than the 3 - especially pace on longer putts - so my current perception is the 2.1 vs 3 decision is much more of a personal preference matter than it is upgrading to the 3 (I got along well with the 2.1's standard head weight so I'm not losing out on anything by going 2.1 rather than 3). 

[bvanlieu]

Results matter @3into2, and the 2.1 is going to be more forgiving design based on size and if you are happy looking at it, don't second guess yourself.

 

I fall into the category of I can look past most things, but some I just cant and the DF3 works better for me over big brother.

 

I have the same issue with turbulators on an otherwise fantastic Driver from Ping so its not LAB, its me 😄

 

 

[StoutKing]

19 hours ago, ad_l1b said:

Just got my DF3 in today, couldn't get them to change the markings as it went into production too fast (1st world problems for sure lol). 1000% loving it more than my 2.1. Rolling them back to back the DF3 just feels and sounds so much better. I got the heavier head and it feels better to me too. I think the TPT shaft has more impact on feel in the DF3 than it does on the 2.1, but I need to do more testing, could just be shiny new toy placebo. I'll probably list my DF 2.1 in a couple of weeks unless things go off the rails somehow.

So far SUPER glad I pulled the trigger. 

I wonder if LAB could retrofit a shaft to the Accra or TPT?  I usually prefer steel shafts but the stock feels clunky to me the more I putt with it.  Also it would be great to try the different shafts before buying, otherwise it's just flushing $$ down the drain.

Edited May 31, 2024 by StoutKing

[Orchardist]

SERVICE	MEZZ.1 & MEZZ MAX	DF 2.1	LINK.1	DF 3
Re-Weighting	$100	N/A	$100	$100
Re-Shafting	$150	$150	$150	$150
Lie Angle Change	$200	N/A	$200	N/A
Re-Grip (Current Style)	$50	$50	$50	$50
Re-Grip (New Style)	$125	$125	$125	$125
Head S   Stout,  reshaft is a  menu item

[ad_l1b]

it does suck that you can't try all the shafts, it's probably the biggest shortcoming of the LAB putter system is that in order to work correctly everything has to be massaged to be just right. I do think the shafts only improve on an already good thing, more of luxury than a necessity. If you handed me a DF3 with a steel shaft I still would game it and see all the benefits.  

[StoutKing]

36 minutes ago, Orchardist said:

SERVICE	MEZZ.1 & MEZZ MAX	DF 2.1	LINK.1	DF 3
Re-Weighting	$100	N/A	$100	$100
Re-Shafting	$150	$150	$150	$150
Lie Angle Change	$200	N/A	$200	N/A
Re-Grip (Current Style)	$50	$50	$50	$50
Re-Grip (New Style)	$125	$125	$125	$125
Head S   Stout,  reshaft is a  menu item

If you paid $150 plus $400 for a TPT that's $100 more than a new stock putter.  Dang

[Orchardist]

Yeah, it's real money for sure but it's just an option.

[prouse25]

On 5/28/2024 at 11:19 AM, manVSgolf said:

The best way I can describe it - crisp, solid, perfect (to me).  I cannot imagine a better putter shaft.  I have LABs with all of the shafts (BGT, LA Golf, Accra, standard steel - i also have a broomstick, 2 CBs (DF3, Mezz), and 2 standards (link, DF3) with TPTs - I can honestly tell you I prefer the TPT in ALL models.  I will also order a broomstick DF3 with TPT as soon as it’s up.  

I have a number of LAB models.  My Mezz with an Accra shaft is no where close to my DF3 with the TPT.  I splurged on the TPT not thinking it would matter very much - I just wanted it.  After playing with it for the last month, there are no regrets.  I love the combo of the TPT and DF3.  I did end up doing a DIY alignment change on the DF3.  Made a world of difference.  

[mitchdoc]

Anyone with the 2.1 have alignment issues on short putts and if so what can be done to overcome them

[CBraynor]

On 5/14/2024 at 5:15 PM, LPSISCO said:

I have a stock 2.1 with steel shaft and Press 3* grip, just bought a DF3 with the Accra shaft and the standard grip. I came from 2 years of Pirettis and probably 20 years of Scottys before that. I have made some absolute bombs with the 2.1 because the roll is so pure. That said, the size is really a PITA in the bag if you walk, and the feel isn’t awesome. But from a forgiveness standpoint, and for me, from an aiming standpoint, it’s awesome.

 

I bought the DF3 online from the outlet for no reason other than I saw it and wanted to try it. It was literally like a drunk online purchase, but I was dead sober. WTF? 

 

Anyway, I found the DF3 aiming is not the same as the DF2.1; the 2.1 is very square and very natural for me to aim. The first 9 holes with the DF3 I felt like I was always aimed left. I’m sure this is attributed to the difference in the press in the grip. I was ready to bail on the DF3 until I decided to change my stance to be a little open - viola, awesomeness ensues….

 

The DF3 absolutely feels and sounds better than the 2.1. Honestly, I’m still on the fence about which one I’ll keep in the bag and which one I’ll sell. But yesterday I used the DF3 and shot 37 on the front and the putting was just easy….so the DF3 is in the lead.

I know it’s only been a couple weeks but I’m curious about an update from you. I’m in the same boat as you, love the 2.1 but the 3 just looks feels and sounds soooo much better. Are you sticking with the 3? And have you noticed any real performance difference between the two? And any noticeable difference in the shafts?  Wanting to upgrade to the 3 but trying to decide if it’s worth it. Thanks!

[JMathews]

On 5/31/2024 at 11:05 PM, prouse25 said:

I have a number of LAB models.  My Mezz with an Accra shaft is no where close to my DF3 with the TPT.  I splurged on the TPT not thinking it would matter very much - I just wanted it.  After playing with it for the last month, there are no regrets.  I love the combo of the TPT and DF3.  I did end up doing a DIY alignment change on the DF3.  Made a world of difference.  

What alignment did you have and then switch to?

[LPSISCO]

On 6/1/2024 at 9:58 PM, CBraynor said:

I know it’s only been a couple weeks but I’m curious about an update from you. I’m in the same boat as you, love the 2.1 but the 3 just looks feels and sounds soooo much better. Are you sticking with the 3? And have you noticed any real performance difference between the two? And any noticeable difference in the shafts?  Wanting to upgrade to the 3 but trying to decide if it’s worth it. Thanks!

 

Well, I was pretty gung ho on the 3, then missed several 3 footers in my President’s Cup tournament Saturday. I thought about going to the 2.1 for Sunday, but stayed with the 3 and made just about everything I should have, with only one short miss. 

 

I’ll probably take the 2.1 out for another spin this week, just because. Then try to decide.

 

Honestly, I miss putting with my Pirettis - I have 3, and before going down the LAB rabbit hole I used a Savona for the past 18 months. That looks and sounds much better than either LAB, but once you get the feel of zero torque I’m not sure I can go back. 

[prouse25]

On 6/2/2024 at 8:25 AM, JMathews said:

What alignment did you have and then switch to?

I originally went with three short lines pointing at the target.  Without a perpendicular line, I had a difficult time precisely aiming the face.  I used 1/8” wide car stripping tape to add the perpendicular line.  Turned out great and made a massive difference.  

[JMathews]

2 hours ago, prouse25 said:

I originally went with three short lines pointing at the target.  Without a perpendicular line, I had a difficult time precisely aiming the face.  I used 1/8” wide car stripping tape to add the perpendicular line.  Turned out great and made a massive difference.  

I just ordered and went with the new mark they just released with the small perpendicular line and 3 dots.  For some reason the 3 dots looks better to my eye than the straight line.  We shall see.  I do agree though that a perpendicular line helps with seeing if it's square.  I also found adding a small strip of perpendicular marking to the ball helps see square as well.

[Orchardist]

1 hour ago, JMathews said:

I just ordered and went with the new mark they just released with the small perpendicular line and 3 dots.  For some reason the 3 dots looks better to my eye than the straight line.  We shall see.  I do agree though that a perpendicular line helps with seeing if it's square.  I also found adding a small strip of perpendicular marking to the ball helps see square as well.

I also ordered one with three dots but no perpendicular line.  Like prouse25 I figured I could add lines if needed with the same type of tape.

I find too much to focus on leaves me focused on nothing.  

[ad_l1b]

On 6/1/2024 at 3:46 PM, mitchdoc said:

Anyone with the 2.1 have alignment issues on short putts and if so what can be done to overcome them

I was having a heck of a time with short putts with my 2.1, so far not having that issue at all with the 3. I think for me with the 2.1 it was just a lot to look at and for my brain to deal with maybe? Long putts were fine but inside 5 feet it got dicey.

But i do think it was mostly psychological causing me to subconsciously try to manipulate the golf club, cause i know that thing will go dead straight if you don't F with it. 

I need to decide if I'm gonna sell my 2.1 or keep it around...

Edited June 4, 2024 by ad_l1b

[JMathews]

12 hours ago, Orchardist said:

 

I find too much to focus on leaves me focused on nothing.  

I 100% agree with this.

[Daniel Noonan]

Do 2.1 headcovers fit a DF3?

[StoutKing]

Saw that Rickie went from a DF3 to 2.1.  Interesting how he went from a copy of the elder wand to the ugliest putter in history.  Gotta get those results though.

[snagy2000]

On 5/23/2025 at 12:03 PM, StoutKing said:

Saw that Rickie went from a DF3 to 2.1.  Interesting how he went from a copy of the elder wand to the ugliest putter in history.  Gotta get those results though.

He's 6th this week in SG Putting 

[jared.rodas]

😂😂

[PDFPXG]

I play with the DF 2.1 and have tried, on the course, both the same specs DF3 and the OZ. My view is that the DF2.1 is much easier to line up and is the most forgiving. I have never had an issue with short or long distance control. I find the key is to keep your grip as light as possible. I have learned to remind myself of this when I'm standing over the ball. Just had another round with five 1 putts and the rest 2. My best so far this season is 29 putts. The reality is bigger is more stable. The trade-off is gawky looks. All I care about is sinking putts. If a putter was the size and shape of a toilet seat and did a better job and was legal, I would use that.