FAQ

Popular Questions

Here is what the Otey community asks the most about.

Putter ID Help

With over 600,000 putters in circulation, these will help date your Otey putter.

Shipping & Returns

Answers for how to get more information about how to get or return your Otey.

Orders & Customizations

Big orders, special customizations, and other misc questions here.

Popular Questions

What is the main philosophy behind the modern Otey Crisman putters?

The brand's philosophy is centered on the connection between hand, head, and heart. The goal is to provide a putter that offers a consistent roll and pure feedback, allowing the golfer to putt by instinct and not hopes and dreams.

Where are Otey Crisman putters made today?

Otey Crisman putters are still handmade and crafted in the United States. The current company is run by Otey Crisman III, the son of the original club maker, maintaining the tradition from Selma, Alabama.

How many major championship wins are attributed to Otey Crisman putters?

Otey Crisman putters were trusted by champions and have documented success in golf history, claiming five Masters titles and over 100 overall PGA and LPGA victories. Notably, they secured five Masters titles in one decade (1947 to 1957), including three consecutive wins from 1955 to 1957.

Masters Winners
1957 - Doug Ford.- Otey Crisman 70HB
1956 - Jack Burke Jr. - Otey Crisman 7HOB
1955 - Cary Middlecoff - Otey Crisman 7HB
1950 - Jimmy Demaret - Otey Crisman 17H
1947 - Jimmy Demaret - 51H

How should I clean and maintain my Otey putter?

To maintain the precision-milled face and finish, regular cleaning is essential. Remove loose debris with a soft-bristled brush, and for deeper cleaning, use warm water with mild dish soap. Avoid harsh chemicals, and always dry the putter thoroughly after cleaning to prevent damage.

Why is it important to always use a headcover on my Otey putter?

It is crucial to always keep the headcover on your putter when it is not in use. This protects the club head from "bag chatter" impacts that can occur during transport and preserves the milled face, which is vital for consistent ball contact and roll.

Putter ID Help

What is considered the "Golden Decade" of Otey Crisman putters?

The "Golden Decade" is generally considered the period from 1949 to 1957. This era saw Otey putters win multiple major championships and build the brand’s legacy, making authentic examples from this time highly sought after by collectors.

What are the key stamping variations that help date a vintage putter?

The stamping on the putter head is a primary identifier:

  • 1 9/16" Otey Crisman stamp: Used from 1947 to 1954.
  • 1 3/8" Otey Crisman stamp: Used from 1954 to 1986.
  • Otey III stamp: Used from 1986 to today.
  • The rare cursive "Otey Crisman" stamping on the base can date to circa 1950.
What do the letters and numbers stamped on the putter head mean?

The letters designate the materials and features, while the numbers denote the model:

  • H: Hickory shaft.
  • B: Brass insert in the face.
  • M: Mallet head.
  • W: Walnut wood material.
  • A leading "2" in the model number (e.g., 270) typically indicates a left-handed model.
How can I tell if my old Otey putter has the original grip?

The grip cap and color can indicate the putter's age:

  • Phillips head screw cap (very rare): Used from 1947–1949.
  • Black cap with a white insert: Used from 1949–1960.
  • Red with a Black insert: Used from 1960–1975.
  • The Burgundy hand-wrapped grip is characteristic of the current Otey III models (since 2020).
What does the refurbishment service include for vintage Otey putters?

Otey Crisman offers a comprehensive putter refurbishment service. This includes: a full inspection, structural repairs, alignment corrective work, re-lacquering of the shaft, and reconditioning of the head to the original geometry, including re-polishing and weight checking.

If you have specific requests for your refurb, please include a handwritten note in the box with your putter and we will accommodate your needs. (shaft length, grip details, head refurb, etc.)

To get a refurbishment, your putter MUST be an Otey Crisman putter, and please purchase the refurbishment option here:
Otey Refurbishment

For shipping, please send to:
Otey Crisman Manufacturing 
106 Red Berry Ct. Prattville, AL. 36067

The price of the refurb includes the price of the refurb and shipping back to you.

Shipping & Returns

What is the estimated total timeline for receiving a new putter?

Since all Otey putters are handmade to order, the process involves a production window and a shipping period. The expected timeline is approximately 5–7 business days for production, followed by an additional 5–7 business days for shipping, for a total estimated time of 10–14 business days.

Are there any delays or updates regarding current shipping logistics?

We are currently up to speed, but if we are expecting any delays we will send you a note to the email we have for you on file. (for purchasing customers)

What is the return policy for a standard putter purchase?

We offer a 30-day window for returns of unused, non-customized putters. The putter must be returned in its original condition and packaging. Please consult our Returns Policy page for detailed instructions on initiating a return and specific restrictions.

Are custom or personalized putters eligible for returns?

Due to the personalized nature of custom orders (e.g., specialized engravings, unique paintfill, or custom stampings), customized putters are considered final sale and are not eligible for returns or exchanges.

If there is a major defect of the putter upon arrival, please send us an email at otey@oteythree.com with a short note and a picture of the putter as it arrived and we will work for a solution.

How can I track my order once it has shipped?

Once the putter has completed the production phase and is shipped, you will receive an email notification containing the tracking number and a link to the shipping carrier's website for real-time tracking updates.

Do you ship to international addresses?

Yes, we ship worldwide. International shipping rates and estimated delivery times will be calculated and displayed during the checkout process. Please note that the buyer is responsible for any applicable import duties, customs fees, or taxes levied by the destination country.

Orders & Customizations

What core specifications can I choose for a new Otey putter?

When ordering a standard model, you can typically customize the core specifications. The most common options are putter length (e.g., 33, 34, 35 inches), hand (left and right, and custom stamping (+upcharge)

Can I request a specific putter head weight?

Putter head weights are typically 320 grams. We can sometimes (depending on our current workload) accommodate a specific weight request, as head weight affects feel—a lighter head offers more feel, while a heavier head offers more stability. Consult with our team for available options for your chosen model at otey@oteythree.com.

Can I request special shaft materials (e.g., hickory vs. steel)?

Otey Crisman has a history of using both hickory (wood) and steel shafts.

Currently, Otey Crisman Putters will be sold with hickory shafts only. This is subject to change as we update our product lines.

Is there a process for corporate or bulk orders (e.g., club tournaments)?

Yes. If you require a large order for an event, tournament, club anniversary, please reach out to our team via the Contact page. We can discuss bulk pricing, specialized engraving for logos or dates, and production timelines tailored to your event schedule.