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The Scotty Cameron Phantom X 5 and 5.5 putters are my favorites in this line.  More compact head and simplified alignment aids.

Introduction

Earlier this year, we took a look at two of the five new models in Scotty Cameron’s Phantom X putter series, the 8 (review HERE) and the 12 (review HERE).  Today, we’re examining what may become the most popular models, the 5 and 5.5.  With its roots in on the popular #7/Fang head shape, we wanted to know if there was anything new here or just another rehashed design.

Looks

The first thing that stood out to me when I picked up the Phantom X 5 was that it was smaller than I expected.  Having tested the 12 and 8 – both huge mallets – I was expecting the 5 to be similarly sized.  Don’t get me wrong, the Phantom X 5 is still a mallet, but it’s a compact one.

Another way in which the 5 and 5.5 are different than the other Phantom X putters is the alignment.  Scotty refers to the 5 and 5.5 as having “Traditional Alignment” with the entire top line visible and only three dots to guide the way.  The other Phantom X putters have “Continuous Alignment” which runs the entire length of the head.

Overall, I like the more angular take on the #7/Fang headshape.  The combination of the smaller size and the sharp lines fit my eye well.

Sound & Feel

I’ve commented in previous Phantom X reviews that this is the best feeling line that Cameron has produced in a few years.  That opinion holds true with the Phantom X 5 and 5.5, too.  On center, there’s a very pleasant, slightly lively “tock.”

What did surprise me was how demanding the putter is.  The impact sound gets dull very fast as you move away from the center.

Performance

I’ll start with the most obvious question, “What’s the difference between the Phantom X 5 and the Phantom X 5.5?”  The answer is toe hang.  Both putters look almost identical at address – the only difference is where the shaft bends.  In the Phantom X 5, the bend is higher up, creating a face balanced putter.  In the Phantom X 5.5, the bend is lower, creating about 30 degrees of toe hang.

As a putter with a moderate arc to his stroke, I gravitated toward the Phantom X 5.5.  In fact, I locked in with it almost immediately.  It’s the best I’ve putted with a Cameron putter in ages.  The combination of the slight toe hang and the look that I liked really worked well for me.

Like most recent Scotty Cameron putters, the Phantom X putters have adjustable weights in the sole.  While Scotty is now offering weight kits through his website, they are extremely expensive ($169 for three sets of weights and a removal tool).  You can find much less expensive options on eBay.

Finally, let’s talk about forgiveness.  Compared to a blade, both of these putters are significantly more forgiving.  However, compared to the massive Phantom X 12, the 5 and 5.5 are lacking.  On bigger mishits, I could feel the putter twisting in my hand.  There’s no magic dust here: if you want massive forgiveness, you need to choose a massive putter.

Conclusion

While the Scotty Cameron Phantom X 5 and 5.5 putters are not dramatically different than other similarly shaped mallets, the ability to customize the weight and choose between two necks is valuable.  If you like the look of this more angular, compact design, visit your fitter to find the right toe hang and head weight for your stroke.

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Matt Saternus

Founder, Editor In Chief at PluggedInGolf.com

Matt is the Founder and Editor in Chief of Plugged In Golf. He's worked in nearly every job in the golf industry from club fitting to instruction to writing and speaking. Matt lives in the northwest suburbs of Chicago with his wife and two daughters.

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