Expert Review: Mizuno M.Craft Type IV Putter
All photos courtesy of David L. Brown
About this Review: This review is my honest opinion of the putter, which I tested for 1 day in November of 2022.
My take
The Mizuno M.Craft Type IV is a great blade putter for those mid-range handicappers who want a thicker, heavier putter that they can adjust. Its single line down the back with the matte satin finish also gives it a sharp aesthetic appeal.
About the club I tested
- Model: 2021 Mizuno M.Craft IV Putter
- Shape: Blade
- Hosel Neck: Plumber
- Balance Point: 12in
- Shaft Length: 35in
- Grip Type: Traditional
- Finish: White satin
About me
- Average Score: 79
- Handicap: 7
- Experience: 22 years of playing golf
- Right/Left-Handed: Right-handed
- Stroke Type: Straight back and through
- Golf Ball Used: Callaway ERC Triple Track
- Height: 5’10”
Test conditions
- When I tested the putter: November 2022
- Days tested: 1
- Where I’ve used it: Practice green
- Weather and Wind Conditions: Indoor turf
- Green Speed: Slow to Medium
- Grass Type: Turf
How it performs
What I was looking for
I was looking for a mallet putter, but with the thickness of a blade-style putter, so I decided to try it.
Why I tested this club
The M.Craft Type IV performed similarly to a mallet putter with its larger backing and was pleased most with its balance. This club has a forged 1025 carbon steel design that creates a softer feel where each putt is felt off the face of the club. However, I did not end up selecting this putter as I visually couldn’t get over the fact that it was a blade putter and, for years, I have been using a mallet-styled head.
What I love about it
- Face Feel: The 1025 carbon steel design allows for a soft feeling putter face on the market, creating consistency on longer lag putts but feel around the hole on closer putts.
- Forgiveness: The forgiveness is apparent as each putt is felt within the hands when it connects with the face, and regardless of where the putt is struck, the distance control is very consistent.
- Alignment: The alignment is sharp with its single line down the head on the matte satin finish, creating confidence that the ball is lined up correctly each time.
- Length: I enjoy the 35-inch putter as it provides me the best opportunity to swing my arms back and through the ball on short and long putts
- Aesthetic Appeal: The silver satin finish is a sharp, simple yet sleek feature.
- Customization: The putter head weights on the bottom of the club are essential to customizing a golfer's personal weight preference.
Issues I’ve encountered
- Weight: The weight is lighter than I prefer at 355g. I enjoyed the VI version more because it weighs 371 grams and hits through the ball more.
- Grip Feel: The standard grip on the Type IV putter was tacky. I enjoy an oversized pistol grip because I have smaller hands and enjoy how a pistol grip feels.
Best Putt or Round with this Putter
I did a putting drill where I hit a 3ft, 6ft, 9ft, and 12ft putt one after the other and made them all on my second attempt through the drill. Using the putter for the first time gave me the idea that it was consistent.
Value for the money vs. other options
I tested the complete M.Craft series of putters priced the same. The Type IV putter is not as good as the VI style putter because it doesn’t have as much weight and isn’t as soft within the face. The VI has the softest face and is the best option for the mid to low handicapper who wants to take their game to the next level.
Final verdict
If one seeks feel and enjoys a thicker blade-style putter with sharp alignment features, the Mizuno M.Craft Type IV is a great option.
Mizuno M.Craft Type IV Putter
- We price match
- Returnable