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Expert Review: Odyssey Tri-Hot 5K #3 S Putter

Published on 03/14/2023 · 4 min readThis review is my honest opinion of the putter, which I tested for one day in February of 2023.
By Golf Expert David L. Brown

All photos courtesy of David L. Brown

About this Review: This review is my honest opinion of the putter, which I tested for one day in February of 2023.

My take

The Odyssey Tri-Hot 5k #3 Putter is ideal for those who struggle to make those 5–10 footers on a consistent basis. This putter has a sleek look to it, and its simple single-line alignment increases confidence with each putt.

About the club I tested

  • Model: 2021 Odyssey Tri-Hot 5k #3 Putter
  • Shape: Blade
  • Hosel Neck: Short slant
  • Balance Point: 12 inches
  • Shaft Length: 35 inches
  • Grip Type: Standard
  • Finish: Black

About me

  • Average Score: 79
  • Handicap: 7
  • Experience: 22 years of golf
  • Right/Left-Handed: Right-handed
  • Stroke Type: Straight back and straight through
  • Golf Ball Used: 2021 Bridgestone E6
  • Height: 5’10’’

Test conditions

  • When I tested the putter: February 2023
  • Days tested: 1
  • Where I’ve used it: Turf, indoor practice green
  • Weather and Wind Conditions: Indoor, no wind present
  • Green Speed: Slow to medium
  • Grass Type: Turf

How it performs

Alignment
4/5
Feel
4/5
Forgiveness
4/5
Grip
4/5
Balance
3/5

What I was looking for

I was looking for a new blade putter that offered more consistency on shorter putts within 10 feet. I already play with an Odyssey EXO 7s and wanted to see how it compared with the face feel, weight, and balance of the Tri-Hot 5K #3.

Why I chose to test this club

I tested this putter because it features one of Odyssey’s classic designs. I found it to be a putter that provided me with more confidence, specifically on those shorter putts around the hole.

What I love about it

  • Face Feel: The tungsten-weighted technology is located behind the white insert in the clubface. That really allows me to feel the club striking the ball—which gives me more confidence to make more putts within 10 feet. It also gives me instant feedback, as I can tell if my putt was struck within the middle of the clubhead or toward the bottom. For me, getting instant feedback and adjusting my stroke based on that is key in making my next putt.
  • Forgiveness: Even when the putt isn’t struck perfectly, it still rolls true and allows shorter putts to hold their line. Due to the lightness within the putter head and grip, further putts also lag their way close to the hole. Though I believe the Tri-Hot 5K performs better from up close, this club is a solid option for those who want to hole more putts within 10 feet.
  • Alignment: A black head and a white line running down the head of the putter give this club a simple alignment. I feel that I’m always aligned correctly as I line my golf ball to the line on the putter head. I also like how the line does not just run across the top of the blade but runs across the whole backside of the putter.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: The all-black head and the white face insert are sleek. I also enjoy the red and silver shaft. The varying colors give the club flair; however, this does not overwhelm my vision when staring at it at address.
  • Grip Feel: The standard pistol grip is comfortable regardless of my hand placement. It is tacky and doesn’t slip within the hands—ideal for a variety of playing conditions.

Issues I’ve encountered

  • Weight: The 355g weight is lighter than the 365g+ I prefer and impacts my follow-through more than anything, as it feels more elongated than what I am used to. I enjoy a 365g putter because this allows me to keep the club down and on-path longer on my backswing and follow-through.
  • Balance: As mentioned, the balance is inconsistent on the backswing and follow-through, in part due to its weight. My follow-through feels longer than normal because the club’s lightweight creates some inconsistency in striking the ball and getting it rolling smoothly on longer putts.

Best Putt or Round with this Putter

During my practice session, I focused on short putts within 10 feet, and I was consistently making eight out of 10 putts. I loved the confidence and consistency I felt on these shorter putts. This club’s simple design features allow me to have confidence standing over each putt, knowing I am aligned correctly each time.

Value for the money vs. other options

For me, this putter is worth its price tag. I also tried the Odyssey DFX 2 Ball and Blade-Style putters; Each performed well, but for the extra money, I would say the Odyssey White Tri-Hot 5k #3 has an overall better feel to it because of its engineered-tungsten face insert.

Final verdict

This putter unlocks confidence within 10 feet of the hole. I believe the average weekend golfer would see an improvement if they added this to their arsenal.

  • We price match
  • Returnable
Randy Boratyn, Curated Expert
Golf Expert Randy recommended it to a customer 2 days ago
David L. Brown, Golf Expert
5.00
David L. Brown
Golf Expert
I’ve been playing golf for over 22+ years and in my competitive playing days was a 4 time state qualifier. Equipment isn’t everything but it sure does help knowing your best options..I’m here for you and want you to love what’s in your bag!
15 Reviews
343 Customers helped
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Written by:
David L. Brown, Golf Expert
5.00
David L. Brown
Golf Expert
I’ve been playing golf for over 22+ years and in my competitive playing days was a 4 time state qualifier. Equipment isn’t everything but it sure does help knowing your best options..I’m here for you and want you to love what’s in your bag!
15 Reviews
343 Customers helped

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