Patent Publication Number: US-10322324-B2

Title: Golf club head

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/934,903, filed on Nov. 6, 2015, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 14/806,041, filed on Jul. 22, 2015, that claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/077,520, filed on Nov. 10, 2014, the subject matter of these applications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Putting is a critical aspect of success in the game of golf. Minor misjudgments in velocity and aim may spell the difference between success and failure. Slight misalignments in orientation may prove equally significant. Although the putting stroke is seemingly simplistic, minor deviations, e.g. in dynamic loft and/or height of the putter head at impact, from ideal conditions may have an outweighed effect on whether a putt is overshot, undershot, or just right. These variances are not well understood to the novice or recreational player and thus may lead to frustration and failure to progress. Thus, a need exists to counter the negative effects of minor misalignments of a putter-type golf club to reduce such frustration and promote engagement. 
     SUMMARY 
     In accordance with one or more embodiments, a putter-type golf club head is provided having a main body and a face component including a first element formed of a resilient material and a second element forward of the first element. The second element has a rigid material and is secured directly to the first element. The first element has a thickness that gradually increases toward a sole portion. 
     In accordance within one or more embodiments, a putter-type golf club head is provided having a main body having a front surface and a face component secured to the front surface of the main body. The face component includes a resilient body having a front surface, a rear surface opposite the front surface, a heel surface, and a toe surface. At least a portion of at least one of the heel surface and the toe surface is visually exposed. The resilient body defines a trapezoidal front-to-rear profile. 
     In accordance with one or more embodiments, a putter-type golf club head is provided comprising a striking face, a top surface, a rearward surface, a bottom surface having a beveled rear edge, a center of gravity having a depth, Dcg, and a club head depth Dch, such that Dcg/Dch is no less than 0.42. 
     In accordance with one or more embodiments, a putter-type golf club head is provided comprising a main body having a forward end, a rearward end opposite the forward end, a bottom portion, a top portion opposite the bottom portion, and a male-type hosel component defining a longitudinal axis that is forwardly canted relative to vertical. The club head further includes a face component secured to the forward end of the main body, the face component including a first element formed of a resilient material and a second element formed of a rigid material and secured to the first element. The club head further includes a striking face generally defining a virtual striking face plane and being at least partially formed by the face component. 
     In accordance with one or more embodiments, a putter-type golf club head that, when oriented in a reference position, comprises a main body having a front surface, a rear surface opposite the front surface, a bottom surface, a top surface opposite the bottom portion, and a flange extending forwardly from the front surface. The club head further includes a face component secured to the front surface of the main body such that the flange extends over the face component and forwardly of the face component by no less than 0.1 mm. The face component includes a first element formed of a resilient material and a second element formed of a rigid material and secured to the first element. The club head further includes a striking face that generally defines a virtual striking face plane and is at least partially formed by the face component. 
     In accordance with one or more embodiments, a putter-type golf club head that, when oriented in a reference position, comprises a striking face generally defining a virtual striking face plane, a top surface, a rearward surface, a bottom surface, and a bevel adjoining the bottom surface with the rearward surface, the bevel having a forward end and a rearward end. In a virtual vertical plane perpendicular to the virtual striking face plane and passing through a portion of the bevel, the club head includes a first thickness t 1  located at the bevel forward end and a second thickness t 2  located at the bevel rearward end such that t 1 -t 2  is no less than 2.0 mm. 
     The various exemplary aspects described above may be implemented individually or in various combinations. 
     These and other features and advantages of the golf club head according to the disclosure in its various aspects, as provided by one or more of the various examples described in detail below, will become apparent after consideration of the ensuing description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present disclosure, in one or more aspects thereof, is illustrated by way of example and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings, where: 
         FIG. 1  is a toe-side elevation view of a golf club head, according to one embodiment; 
         FIG. 2  is a heel-side elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a top plan view of the golf club head of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a front elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a rear elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a bottom plan view of the golf club head of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a rear perspective view of the golf club head of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a front perspective view of the golf club head of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a hosel component of the golf club head of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a bottom plan view of the hosel component of  FIG. 9 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of an insert component of the golf club head of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of the insert component of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a heel side elevation view of a detail portion of the golf club head of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 14  is front perspective view of an insert component of the golf club head of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 15  is a rear perspective view of the insert component of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a front elevation view of a golf club head in accordance with one or more embodiments; 
         FIG. 17  is a rear elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 18  is a heel-side elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a toe-side elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 20  is a top plan view of the golf club head of  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 21  is a bottom plan view of the golf club head of  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 22  is a front perspective view of the golf club head of  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 23( a )  is a rear perspective view of the golf club head of  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 23( b )  is a cross-sectional view of the club head of  FIG. 20  taken through plane A-A′; 
         FIG. 24  is a top plan view of the golf club head of  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 25( a )  is a rear perspective view of a golf club head according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG. 25( b )  is a top plan view of the golf club head of  FIG. 25( a ) ; 
         FIG. 25( c )  is a heel side elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 25( a ) ; 
         FIG. 25( d )  is a rear elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 25( a ) ; 
         FIG. 25( e )  is a front elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 25( a ) ; 
         FIG. 26( a )  is a rear perspective view of a golf club head according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG. 26( b )  is a heel side elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 26( a ) ; 
         FIG. 26( c )  is a front elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 26( a ) ; 
         FIG. 26( d )  is a top plan view of the golf club head of  FIG. 26( a ) ; 
         FIG. 26( e )  is a rear elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 26( a ) ; 
         FIG. 26( f )  is a bottom plan view of the golf club head of  FIG. 26( a ) ; 
         FIG. 27( a )  is a rear perspective view of a golf club head according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG. 27( b )  is a heel side elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 27( a ) ; 
         FIG. 27( c )  is a top plan view of the golf club head of  FIG. 27( a ) ; 
         FIG. 27( d )  is a bottom plan view of the golf club head of  FIG. 27( a ) ; 
         FIG. 27( e )  is a rear elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 27( a ) ; 
         FIG. 27( f )  is a front elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 27( a ) ; 
         FIG. 27( a )  is a rear perspective view of a golf club head according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG. 27( b )  is a heel side elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 27( a ) ; 
         FIG. 27( c )  is a top plan view of the golf club head of  FIG. 27( a ) ; 
         FIG. 27( d )  is a bottom plan view of the golf club head of  FIG. 27( a ) ; 
         FIG. 27( e )  is a rear elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 27( a ) ; 
         FIG. 27( f )  is a front elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 27( a ) ; 
         FIG. 28( a )  is a rear perspective view of a golf club head according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG. 28( b )  is a top plan view of the golf club head of  FIG. 28( a ) ; 
         FIG. 28( c )  is a bottom plan view of the golf club head of  FIG. 28( a ) ; 
         FIG. 28( d )  is a heel side elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 28( a ) ; 
         FIG. 28( e )  is a rear elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 28( a ) ; 
         FIG. 28( f )  is a front elevation view of the golf club head of  FIG. 28( a ) ; and 
         FIG. 28( g )  is a front perspective view of the golf club head of  FIG. 28( a ) . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1-8 , in accordance with one embodiment, a putter-type golf club head  100  includes a body member  102 , a face component  104 , and a bottom portion  106 . In some embodiments, the face component  104  is an aft-attached component affixed, preferably permanently, to the body member  102 . Also, the bottom portion  106  may be aft-attached to the body member  102 . This enables selectively positioning materials of different properties where they may be best suited. 
     The body member  102  may include a blade portion  108  (see  FIG. 7 ) longitudinally extending in a heel-to-toe direction and a central elongate portion  110  extending rearward from the blade portion  108 . The blade portion  108  and the central elongate portion  110 , in combination, form a top surface  112 , a bottom surface  114  (see e.g.  FIG. 6 ), a rear surface  116  and a front surface  148 . 
     For all purposes herein, the term “reference position” refers to an orientation of a club head relative to a virtual ground plane in which a sole portion of the club head rests on the virtual ground plane such that the club head is squared in a normal address position. 
     For all purposes herein, the term “soled position” refers to an orientation of a club head relative to a virtual ground plane in which a bottom portion, or sole portion, of the club head contacts and freely rests on the virtual ground plane. Unless otherwise noted, all dimensions and positional characteristics described herein with regard to a golf club head are intended to be measured or determined with the golf club head oriented in a soled position. 
     The body member top surface  112  may further include an alignment element  120 . The alignment element may include a shallow groove for assisting the golfer to alignment the putter with a golf ball. In some embodiments, the alignment element  120  may comprise a first and second geometric feature, e.g. squares  120 ( a ) and  120 ( b ). The top surface  112  further includes a recess (not shown) receiving an aft-attached hosel component  124 . 
     As discussed above, and as particularly shown in  FIG. 2 , the face component  104  may include a first insert  126  comprising a compressible element and a second insert  128  comprising a cap element in communication with the first insert  126 . Specifically, the second insert  128  is forward of the first insert  126  and may form a portion of the exterior striking face  130  of the club head  100 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , the body member  102  includes a front portion including a near-vertical front surface  148 . Preferably, the front surface  148  of the body member  102  forms a forward-leaning angle ϕ of 1° as projected in a vertical plane  170  perpendicular to the striking face  130  and relative to a vertical plane  172  perpendicular to the vertical plane  170  (see e.g.  FIG. 13 ). A flange  150  projects forward from the front surface  148  (see e.g.  FIG. 2 ). The flange  150  may further include a bottom surface  152 , a front surface  154 , which may form a portion of the striking face  130  of the club head  100 , and a top surface that is preferably flush with and integral with the top surface  112  of the body member  102  of the club head  100 . This configuration provides for removal of significant high density material from the front portion of the club head  100  and optional replacement with a lower density material, e.g. the face component  104 . Specifically, the flange  150  ensures that the putter head  100  appears full-sized and continuous from a vertical position (i.e. the position of the golfer&#39;s eyes upon swinging a golf club including the embodied club head  100 ). Yet, the flange  150  provides a recessed region into which the face component  104  may be secured. Preferably, the front surface  148  of the body member  102  is a substantially planar surface. However, in some embodiments, some variation in contour is contemplated. For example, the surface may be roughened to provide improved adhesion with the face component  104 . Alternatively, or in addition, the front surface  148  may include one or more projections and/or recesses adapted to mate with corresponding projections and/or recesses of the face component  104 . 
     The flange  150  preferably comprises a portion having a thickness less than 4 mm, more preferably between 2 mm and 3.5 mm, and even more preferably between 2.0 mm and 3.25 mm. Additionally, or alternatively, the flange  150  includes a portion having a thickness no greater than 0.1 in. More preferably, such thickness is located at a forwardmost location of the flange  150 . Preferably, the face component  104  comprises a maximum thickness that is no less than 4.0 mm. 
     Dimensioning the flange  150  in this regard may provide for greater design flexibility of the face component  104  in view of regulations promulgated by one or more golf equipment regulatory bodies, e.g. the United States Golf Association (USGA). For example, as of the date of this application, the USGA requires that inserts located in the face of a club head be “flush with the rest of the face.” The USGA also provides tolerances with which to determine conformance of this rule. However, by limiting the flange thickness (and thus limiting land area on the striking face about the face component  104 ), the face component  104  of the club head  100  may be less likely to be considered an insert for purposes of this analysis by the USGA. This may particularly be the case if the insert extends to within 0.1 in from the perimeter of a striking face when projected into a vertical plane that is parallel to a virtual vertical hosel plane that includes a hosel axis, when a club head is oriented in the reference position. Thus, in turn, such tolerances beneficially may not apply to the club head  100  as described above. For example, the flange  150  may extend further forward than the striking face  130  as defined by the face component  104 , e.g. by at least 0.1 mm and more preferably by at least 0.2 mm. A flange so dimensioned may be advantageous in correcting the swing timing of a golfer, particularly one whom tends to top-cut a golf ball at impact. By increasing the forward extent of the flange  150  relative to the striking face  130 , the golfer may be likely to perceive a striking face more forward than in the absence of such extending-forward of the flange  150 . As a result, the golfer may inadvertently be more likely to apply at impact a more appropriate club head orientation that may include a more appropriate dynamic loft and/or a more appropriate launch angle. 
     The first insert  126 , as described above, preferably constitutes a compressible element. Referring to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , the first insert  126  may comprise a rearward surface  156  and a forward surface  158  opposite the rearward surface  156 . The first insert  126  further comprises a top surface  160 , a bottom surface  162  opposite the top surface  160 , a heel surface  164 , and a toe surface  166  opposite the heel surface  164 . The first insert  126  preferably comprises a resilient material, e.g. a polymeric material. Specifically, the first insert  126  is formed of a material having a hardness no greater than 60 Shore D, more preferably within the range of 30 Shore D to 50 Shore D, and even more preferably substantially equal to about 39 Shore D. In some embodiments, the first insert  126  comprises a thermoplastic urethane. Providing a compression element (i.e. the first insert  126 ) having such characteristics results in improved tactile rebounding characteristics upon impact. An insert having these properties may likely be a noticeably softer putter than what a golfer may typically be used to and may even be considered soft to the touch, further communicating the intended behavior of the putter face component  104 . 
     The rearward surface  156  of the first insert  126  may contact the front surface  148  of the body member  102  (see e.g.  FIG. 2 ). Preferably, the first insert  126  is coupled to the body member  102  e.g. by chemical adhesion of the rearward surface  156  with the front surface  148  of the body member  102 . Further, preferably at least one of the heel surface  164  and the toe surface  166  is visually exposed and, more preferably, physically exposed. In other words, the front surface  148  of the body member  102  is preferably continuously planar entirely from a central portion outward toward at least one of the heel, toe, and bottom portion. More preferably, the front surface  148  is continuously planar from a central portion toward each of the heel, toe, and sole portions. Exposing the first insert  126  and/or the second insert  128  on at least one of the heel surface  164  and the toe surface  166  communicates to a golfer the tactile response behavior intended by the club head  100 . Such exposure may also provide additional alignment features to ensure proper orientation during a putting stroke. For these reasons, the first insert  126  preferably exhibits a white, or whitish, color. This characteristic further provides a clear contrast from the color and/or texture of the second insert  128 , which is preferably of a dark, black, and/or copper color. Preferably, the first insert  126  is formed in part of a UV-protectant chemical additive to prevent discoloration over time due to UV exposure. This contrast further draws attention to the first insert  126  and more particularly its front-to-rear shape, as will be described further below. 
     As shown in  FIG. 13 , the first insert  126  preferably comprises a trapezoidal profile in the front-to-rear direction. Particularly, the rearward surface  156  of the first insert  126  generally corresponds to a vertical planar surface (with the club head  100  in the soled position). The forward surface  158  of the first insert  126  is preferably angled relative to the vertical plane  172 . The shaping of the compression layer in this manner is believed to apply static loft to the putter. Particularly, a plane  174  coincident with (or generally parallel with) the forward surface  158  of the first insert  126  forms an angle θ with the vertical plane  172 . Preferably, the angle θ is no less than 1°, more preferably between 2° and 6°, and even more preferably substantially equal to about 4°. Because of the forward-leaning angle ϕ of 1°, the forward surface when secured to the body member  102  in an operable state exhibits a static loft angle of preferably between 1-4°, and more preferably about 3°. Such construction improves the castability of surfaces of the body member  102 , particular in a die cast environment. However, other angular combinations are contemplated, particularly if the body member is formed by other means, e.g. machined. For example, if the front surface  148  of the body member  102  is intended to be milled, a draft angle ϕ of 0° may be more suitable. Also, exposing the first insert  126 , bearing its trapezoidal profile, indicates a high-thickness sole portion of a resilient material, thereby communicating high resiliency, which is believed to be a factor affecting performance. 
     Preferably, the variously shown and described contour features (including recesses, edges, etc.) are formed as cast-in features (as opposed to being machined), where die casting is employed in forming the body member  102 . Forming contours and design features in this manner minimizes the visible presence of porous nature of the die cast formed piece, which may be considered to detract from the overall appearance of the body member  102 . However, in some embodiments, some or all contour features described herein (or in addition thereto) are applied by machining. 
     By forming the first insert in this manner, e.g. of a resilient material with thickness gradually increasing toward the bottom surface  162 , overall performance is believed to be improved. For example, consider a case in which the putter head  100  impacts a golf ball with sufficient force to substantially fully compress the first insert  126 . A ball struck low on the face will likely leave the putter face at a lower launch angle than a ball struck high on the face due to operation of the aforementioned first insert geometry. This is advantageous for at least for the following reason: when contact is made high on the face, it may typically be caused by forward pressed hands, in which case the loft of the putter would be artificially decreased and the resulting launch angle may be less than optimal. When contact is conventionally made low on the face  130 , it may be because the user&#39;s hands have “broken” or allowed the putter head to contact the ball when in-front of the hands and thereby be dynamically lofted. Added loft may lead to a launch angle that is higher than optimal. The above-described first insert  126  geometry may act to overcome such natural tendencies. In effect, such structural formations decrease a golfer&#39;s shot dispersion, particularly in terms of dispersion of roll distance. 
     The first insert  126  further comprises a flange  176  projecting from a bottom portion. Particularly the flange  176  extends rearward continuously and integrally with the bottom surface  162  of the first insert  126 . The flange  176  may be secured to the bottom surface  114  of the body member  102  and may, thus, form a portion of the bottom, or sole, surface of the club head  100 . The flange  176  may be advantageous in providing increased surface area for forming an adhesive bond in securing the first insert  126  to the front surface  148  of the body member  102 . In some embodiments, an adhesive material is applied between the first insert  126  and the front surface  148  of the body member  102 . In some such embodiments, the adhesive is of the form of a two-sided tape, optionally having visco-elastic properties. Preferably, an adhesive tape layer is applied to a top surface  178  of the flange  176  has a surface area no less than 200 mm 2 , more preferably no less than 300 mm 2 , even more preferably no less than 325 mm 2  and most preferably equal to about 350 mm 2 . Such an adhesive tape preferably has a thickness no less than 0.2 mm and preferably no greater than 1.0 mm, more preferably between 0.2 mm and 0.6 mm, and even more preferably equal to about 0.4 mm. 
     Because of the optional forward-leaning angle ϕ of 1°, the angle formed between the rearward surface  156  of the first insert  126  and the top surface  178  of the flange  176  (as projected into a vertical plane perpendicular to the striking face  130 ) may equal 89°. However, in some embodiments, the bottom surface  114  of the body member includes a sole draft of about 1°. Thus, in such cases, such angle formed between the top surface  178  of the flange  176  and the rearward surface  156  of the first insert  126  is equal to about 90°. In any case, the surfaces of the first insert  126  intended to be chemically bonded to the body member  102  are preferably well-mated, thus minimizing the risk of poor adhesion. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6 and 15 , in some embodiment, the flange  176  further comprises a bottom surface  180  that may include a recess  182 . The recess  182  may be at least partially filled, e.g. with an insert  184  being a plaque or medallion. Indicia may be positioned on the external surface of the plaque  184 . Preferably the recess  182  has a depth of no less than 0.75 mm, more preferably no greater than 2.0 mm, even more preferably between 1.00 mm and 1.50 mm, and yet more preferably equal to about 1.33 mm. An adhesive two-sided tape may also be sandwiched between the plaque  184  and bottom surface  180  of the flange  176  to secure the plaque  184  to the flange  176 . The tape preferably bears structural dimensions as discussed above with regard to adhesion of the first insert  126  with the body member  102 . 
     In some embodiments, the body member  102  comprises a recess  183  located on the bottom surface  114  or sole portion. The recess  183  is preferably at least partially filled, e.g., with an insert  185  being a plaque or medallion. Indicia may be positioned on the external surface of the plaque  185 . Preferably the recess  183  has a depth of no less than 0.75 mm, more preferably no greater than 2.0 mm, even more preferably between 1.00 mm and 1.50 mm, and yet more preferably equal to about 1.33 mm. Alternatively, or in addition, the depth of the recess  183  is similar to the depth of the recess  182 . An adhesive two-sided tape may also be sandwiched between the plaque  185  and bottom surface  114  of the body member  102  to secure the plaque  185  to the body member  102 . The tape preferably bears structural dimensions as discussed above with regard to adhesion of the first insert  126  with the body member  102 . In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 6 , the plaque  185  (and optionally the recess  183 ) defines a periphery that generally follows a periphery of the body member  102  when viewed in bottom plan and as projected into the virtual ground plane when the golf club head  100  is oriented in a reference position. Additionally, or alternatively, as projected in the same ground plane, in the reference position, the plaque  185  preferably occupies a planar area that is no less than 25% of the total planar area defined by the bottom surface  114  of the body member  102 . More preferably, the plaque occupies a planar area that is no less than 50% of the total planar area defined by the bottom surface  114  of the body member  102 . Even more preferably, the plaque occupies a planar area being the majority of the total planar area defined by the bottom surface  114  of the body member  102 . Most preferably, the plaque occupies a planar area that is no less than 75% of the total planar area defined by the bottom surface  114  of the body member  102 . As discussed above, die cast aluminum may comprises a relatively high porosity. This high porosity may, in some cases, detract from the appearance of the club head, particularly of a surface of such die case piece is polished, machined, or abraded. Thus, masking portions of the surface of the body member, in these such embodiments, by the placement of inserts formed of other materials better suited for abrasion, may advantageously reduce visibility of such porous characteristic and/or reduce exposure of high porosity materials to abrasion during use. In some embodiments, other surface of the club head are significantly masked with lower-porosity materials. However, at least the bottom portion includes such masking discussed above due to its greater overall exposure to abrasion during use. Alternatively, or in addition, provided that the plaque  185  is located on the bottom portion  114 , the plaque  185  may be susceptible to abrasion during use as well as static grounding during user alignment. Accordingly, the plaque  185  is preferably dimensioned to fit substantially within the recess  183  and, more preferably, entirely within the recess  183 . In some such embodiments, the plaque  185  (or substantial exterior surface portions thereof) is flush with the bottom surface  114 . 
     The second insert  128  may comprise a cap element and at least partially cover the forward surface  158  of the first insert  126 . Preferably the second insert  128  is of a material that is less resilient that the first insert  126  and/or preferably harder than the material of the first insert  126 . In some embodiments, the second insert  128  comprises aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Aluminum, as opposed to denser conventional metals, enables the relocation of more significant mass from the front portion of the club head to more desirable locations e.g. the rear and outer portions for increasing the moment of inertia of the club head  100 , and thus providing for a more forgiving club head. 
     Preferably the second insert is forged and comprises a thickness of between 2 mm and 6 mm, more preferably between 3 mm and 5 mm, and even more preferably equal to about 3.6 mm. However, other forms of manufacture are contemplated, for example machining, milling, and stamping. Because of this desired thickness, however, forging may be a more desirable form of manufacture than stamping. In some embodiments, additional surface processing and/or machining operations are applied. For example, a fly cutter may be applied the surface of the second insert to ensure thicknesses are within intended tolerances. Exemplary fly cutter operational parameters include a feed rate of between 20 and 25 mm/s, and a cutter rotational speed of between 7,000 and 9,000 rpm, more preferably equal to about 8,000 rpm. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2, 11 and 12 , the second insert  128  may further include a rear surface  188 , a front surface  190  opposite the rear surface  188 , a top surface  192 , a bottom surface  194 , a heel surface  196 , and a toe surface  198 . The front surface  190  may form a portion of the striking face  130  of the club head  100  and, more preferably, the majority of the striking face  130 . In some embodiments, the striking face  130  consists entirely of the front surface  190  of the second insert  128  and the front surface of the flange  150  of the body member  102 . 
     The rear surface  188  preferably includes a recess  186 . Preferably, a peripheral wall is formed around the entire periphery of the recess  186 . However, in some embodiments, the recess  186  may be at least partially open, outwardly from a central location. In some embodiments, an adhesive material is located within the recess  186  and adapted to secure the second insert  128  to the first insert  126 . In some such embodiments, the adhesive material comprises a two-sided adhesive tape bearing structural characteristics as described above with regard to the two-sided tape optionally located between the first insert  126  and the front surface  148  of the body member  102 . 
     In some optional embodiments, one or more locater projections  200  and/or recesses are associated with the rear surface  188  of the second insert  128  that correspond to and are adapted to mate with corresponding recesses and/or projections of the forward surface  158  of the first insert  126 . However, such features are not required and may in fact deleteriously result in the presence of air pockets between the respective surfaces of the two inserts. In some embodiments, the second insert  128  is formed by a casting process. In some such embodiments, at least the rear surface  188  of the second insert  128  is machined, e.g., for purposes of increasing dimensional precision to ensure adequate adhesion between the second insert  128  and the first insert  126 . 
     Based on a preferred depth of the face component  104  relative to a forwardmost extent of the body member  102 , a positive-type hosel is preferable. Such a configuration renders moot the requirement of a large bore extending from the top surface  112  of the body member  102 . The blade portion  108  may need to be thickened (i.e. increased in width) to accommodate the large bore. Such thickening may negatively affect the distribution of mass of the club head. At a minimum, such thickening may require the use of structural mass, thereby reducing mass available specifically for purposes of performance enhancement (i.e. “discretionary mass”). Also, the presence of a large bore in close proximity to the face component  104  may cause deficit in structural integrity (e.g. by resulting in too thin of a wall between the face component  104  and the hosel bore). However, in some embodiments, an internal bore extends from the top surface  112  for receiving a shaft or shaft adapter. 
     In some embodiments, a positive-type hosel is integrally formed with the body member  102 , e.g. a cast-in element. However, as discussed above, the putter head  100  is preferably formed by die casting. Accordingly, a cast-in positive-type hosel may likely require a chamfered surface, e.g. of about 1.5°. Such structures however have been identified as potentially resulting in poor consistency in assembly. Also, casting-in an element requiring an added height of, e.g., 20 mm may lead to increased manufacturing costs, particularly in a die cast environment. 
     Additionally, as discussed above, forming club head elements of separate components permits customizing materials to the particular functions of the structure of which they constitute. For example, in some cases, it may be desirable for a putter head, such as putter head  100 , to include a hosel having bendable properties such that adjustment may be applied to the shaft position (e.g. a change in lie angle or a change in loft angle). Yet, as described in above embodiments, it may be desirable to form a putter head by die casting. Materials suitable for die casting purposes may differ from materials capable of providing bendability (e.g. in a hosel component of a club head). Accordingly, the inventors have recognized that greater acceptance may be realized by forming a club head main body of a material suitable for die casting, and structurally suited for a main body, while a different material may be incorporated into a hosel portion, e.g. in the manner of a separate aft-attached hosel component  124 . Preferably, the body member  102  is formed of aluminum alloy. However, other materials are also possible. In this case, aluminum may not be a material of sufficient strength to withstand the degree of moment applied by a bending bar in providing such an adjustment. Thus, in such embodiments (i.e. when the body member is formed of aluminum or an aluminum-alloy), the separately-attached hosel component  124  is preferably formed of a milled steel. Of course, other materials are possible, particularly those of relatively high strength. 
     In some embodiments, the aft-attached hosel component  124  is coupled to a double-bend type shaft. In such cases, preferably the golf club formed of the double-bend shaft and the golf club head  100  is configured to conform with regulations promulgated by the United States Golf Association (USGA) and/or other regulatory bodies that govern equipment used in golf. For example, such shaft is preferably formed such that it is substantially straight from a grip end to a point no more than 5 inches from a virtual ground plane when the golf club is oriented in the reference position. Accordingly, the double-bend portion of the shaft is preferably located entirely within a space defined as between the virtual ground plane and a height of 5 inches therefrom, provided also that the shaft bears complementary geometry to the positive hosel component  124  at its tip end to securably accommodate the positive hosel component  124 . 
     The top surface  112  of the body member  102  thus includes a recess  122  preferably forming a bore of generally circular cross-section. At least in part for the reasons described above, the recess  122  preferably has a diameter less than the diameter of a tip of a conventional shaft. More preferably the diameter of the recess  122  is no greater than 8 mm and more preferably equal to about 6 mm. 
     In some embodiments, referring to  FIGS. 9 and 10 , the hosel component  124  includes a top portion  132  and bottom portion  134 . An annular ridge  136  may be located intermediate the top portion  132  and the bottom portion  134 . The annular ridge may provide a bearing surface for the top surface  112  of the body member  102  in joining the hosel component  124  with the body member  102 . A fillet  138  may be located between the annular ridge  136  and the bottom portion  134 . Such fillet may reduce stresses common during the performance of the club head, as well as during a hosel adjustment process using a conventional bending bar. Bearing such applications in mind, the fillet is preferably of a radius no less than 1 mm, more preferably no less than 1.5 mm, and even more preferably substantially equal to about 1.9 mm. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 9 and 10 , the bottom portion  134  may include a threaded portion  144 . Similarly, the recess  122  preferably includes a corresponding threaded surface (not shown) for rotatable engagement with the threaded surface  144  of the bottom portion  134  of the hosel component  124 . The top portion  132  may further comprise a generally cylindrical side surface  146  and a top surface  140 . The top surface  140  preferably includes a tool socket  142  for operatively receiving a portion of a fastening tool. Such a tool may comprise a conventional screw driver, wrench, allen wrench, allen key, torx wrench, a wrench having a polygonal cross-section (e.g. square), a wrench having a proprietary cross-sectional shape, or the like. In one or more aspects of the present invention, the fastening tool includes a torque-sensing device and, optionally, an indicator for indicating, to the user, the current torque being applied to the fastener and/or when a threshold torque has been reached or exceeded. By enabling the use of a torque wrench, assemblers may ensure that appropriate torque is consistently applied. 
     In addition (or alternatively) to mechanically attaching the hosel component  124  to the body member  102 , an epoxy or other chemical adhesive may be applied between the hosel component  124  and the body member  102 . Alternatively, the hosel component  124  may be attached to the body member  102  by other mechanical means, such as press-fit or bolting, or alternatively, welding, brazing, or other attachment means suitable for such application. Preferably, an epoxy is used to couple a shaft (not shown) to the side surface  146  of the top portion  132  of the hosel component  124 . The annular ridge  136  may also provide a bearing surface upon which a tip end of the shaft may be affixed to provide axial securement and ensure consistent location of the shaft from club head to club head during the assembly process. 
     In some embodiments, a flange on the trapezoidal shape side of the compression layer, which also continues across the bottom surface of the compression layer, may also partially fill the gap between the face cap (second insert  128 ) trailing edge and main body (body element  102 ) leading edge. The flange may fill the gap sufficiently to effect a purposefully “clean” and well-fitting look, but not so much as to cause fit interference as the thickness of the face cap, compression layer and main body face pocket vary according to manufacturing tolerances. 
     In some embodiments, the bottom portion  106  constitutes a separate body component. In some embodiments, the bottom portion  106  is adapted to be removable. For example, the bottom portion  106  may be secured to the body element  102  with mechanical fasteners such as one or more screws. The screws may include a threaded shaft portion and a head portion having a top surface  204 . The top surface  204  may include a tool socket  206  for operatively receiving a portion of a fastening tool. Such a tool may comprise a conventional screw driver, wrench, allen wrench, allen key, torx wrench, a wrench having a polygonal cross-section (e.g. square), a wrench having a proprietary cross-sectional shape, or the like. In one or more aspects of the present invention, the fastening tool includes a torque-sensing device and, optionally, an indicator for indicating, to the user, the current torque being applied to the fastener and/or when a threshold torque has been reached or exceeded. By enabling the use of a torque wrench, assemblers may ensure that appropriate torque is consistently applied. In some embodiments, an adhesive, such as epoxy, is applied to the threaded shaft to result in permanent or semi-permanent securement. One or more resilient elements such as O-rings or gaskets may located within recesses in the body element  102  and between the body element  102  and the fasteners  202 . Such resilient members may ensure a snug fit and prevent loosening during use due in part to vibrations emanating throughout the various components of the club head  100 . 
     Alternatively, or in addition, a tape layer of a resilient material may be adhered between the body element  102  and the bottom portion  106 . The resilient material may be formed of a polymer, such as rubber, polyamide, polyurethane, polyester, or similar material. In some such embodiments, the resilient material comprises a visco-elastic material preferably having damping properties selected to reduce propagation of undesirable-frequency vibratory waves that may be result from impacts of the club head during typical use. This benefit is particularly suited to embodiments having heel arm  210  and/or toe arm  212  that constitute significant amounts of mass in cantilevered formation. Given their length and mass, the heel arm  210  and toe arm  212  (i.e. elements serving as cantilevered mass features) may be particularly susceptible to propagation of undesirable low frequency vibrations. Such counteracting vibration absorption systems are further preferable in embodiments in which such heel arm and toe arm include mass features located outward of either central, less massive, portions of such heel and toe arms. 
     In some embodiments, such visco-elastic tape is further coupled with a rigid mass body, i.e. a metallic plate comprising steel, titanium, zinc, aluminum, or alloys thereof. Accordingly, such system of visco-elastic material and rigid constrained layer may provide for a more effective damping system. In some such embodiments, such damping system is not located between the bottom portion  106  and the body member  102 , but is optionally spaced from the intersection of such components. In some embodiments a visco-elastic material-comprised damping system, such as any of those described above, is secured to the top surface, bottom surface, rear surface and/or side surface of the bottom portion  106 . 
     The bottom portion  106  is preferably formed of a material having a density greater than the density of the main body  102 . Particularly, the main body  102  is preferably formed of a material having a density within the range of 1 g/cm 3  to 6 g/cm 3 , more preferably between 2 g/cm 3  and 4 g/cm 3 . The bottom portion  106  preferably has a density greater than 4 g/cm 3 , and more preferably within the range of 6 g/cm 3  and 10 g/cm 3 . Preferably the bottom portion  106  comprises zinc or a zinc alloy. The bottom portion includes a central mass element  208 , a heel arm  210  projecting from a heel side of the central mass element  208 , and a toe arm  212  projecting from a toe side of the central mass element  208 . 
     The heel arm  210  preferably extends outwardly and forwardly of the central mass element  208 , as may be shown in top plan view (see e.g.  FIG. 3 ). Similarly, the toe arm  212  preferably extends outwardly and forwardly of the central mass element  208 , and optionally in symmetrical manner with respect to the heel arm  210  about a vertical plane passing through a geometric center of the striking face  130  of the club head  100  and perpendicular to the general plane of the striking face  130  of the club head when the club head  100  is oriented in a soled position. Both the heel arm  210  and toe arm  212  preferably each include an elongate portion optionally having one or more concave side portions  214 ,  216 ,  218 , and  220  (as may be viewed in top plan view). Each of the heel arm  210  and the toe arm  212  further preferably terminate forwardly in a forward mass element (e.g. mass elements  222  and  224 ). The bottom portion  106  may be formed by die casting. 
     In one or more embodiments, referring to  FIGS. 16-23 ( b ), a putter-type club head  300  includes a body element  302  and a face component  304 . The face component  304  may include a first element  326  and a second element  328  having characteristics similar to those described with respect to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1  and as described above. 
     The body element  302  includes a blade portion  330  and a rear portion  332  that, in combination, form a sole (bottom) surface  334 , a top surface  336  including a top line  338 , a rear top surface portion  340 , a rearward surface  342 , and a front surface  344 . A hosel  346  may project upward from the top line portion  338 . In some embodiments, the hosel  346  extends from a heel portion  348 . However, extension from a toe portion, a central portion, or a rearward portion are also options. Further, the hosel  346  may be substituted for an internal bore extending inward from the top surface  336  of the putter head  300 . 
     In the particular embodiment shown in  FIGS. 19 and 20 , a face component  304  similar to the face component  104  of the embodiment of  FIG. 1  is incorporated into a blade-shaped putter head  300 . Such incorporation may be beneficial in providing the advantages associated with such a face component in a blade type putter, yet having advantages and desirable characteristics particularly suited for some golfers. However, as described above, the incorporation of such a face component  304  may result in necessary removal of a significant quantity of mass. In the case of a mallet-style putter, as in the embodiment of  FIG. 1 , such mass may appropriately, if not advantageously, be relocated to other regions of the putter head  100  without detraction. However, in the case of a blade-type putter head  300 , the inventors believe relocation of the mass in a lesser-dimensioned space may detract from features typically sought after in a blade-type putter, e.g. accentuated heel and toe weights and a thin rear portion. 
     Accordingly, the rear portion  332  of the putter head  300  preferably includes at least one beveled surface  354 . Preferably a bevel  354  is located on the bottom (sole) surface  334  proximate, and adjacent, the rearward surface  342 . However, in some such embodiments, a second beveled surface is located on the top surface  336 , in addition, proximate the rearward surface  342 . Alternatively, and as shown in  FIGS. 23( a ) and 23( b ) , the top surface  336  of the rear portion  332  includes a central channel  356  extending in the front-to-rear direction. In either case, the rear portion  332  preferable tapers (e.g. by way of the bevel  354 ) from a first thickness (measured vertically at a forward endpoint  354 ( a ) of the bevel  354 ), t 1 , no less than 5 mm to a second thickness (measured vertically at a second endpoint  354 ( b ) of the bevel  354 ), t 2 , that is less than the first thickness. More preferably, the first thickness, t 1 , is between 5 mm and 10 mm, even more preferably between 5 mm and 8 mm. Also, preferably, the second thickness, t 2 , is no greater than 6 mm, more preferably no greater than 5 mm, and even more preferably within the range of 3 mm to 5 mm. These parameters are preferably satisfied at least in a central vertical cross-section passing through the geometric center  352  of the striking face  324  and perpendicular to the general plane of the striking face  324  (i.e. in the cross-sectional plane corresponding to the plane of the paper of  FIG. 23( b ) ). 
     Additionally, or alternatively, the absolute difference between t 1  and t 2  is no less than about 2 mm, more preferably no less than about 2.5 mm, even more preferably no less than about 3.0 mm, and most preferably no less than about 3.5 mm. Alternatively, or in addition, a percent reduction in thickness between t 1  and t 2  (i.e. (t 1 −t 2 )/t 1 ) is preferably no less than about 25%, more preferably no less than 30% and even more preferably no less than about 33%. These parameters are preferably satisfied at least in a central vertical cross-section passing through the geometric center  352  of the striking face  324  and perpendicular to the general plane of the striking face  324  (i.e. in the cross-sectional plane corresponding to the plane of the paper of  FIG. 23( b ) ). 
     By structuring the rear portion  332  in this manner, the putter head  300  may satisfy desired mass distribution thresholds (provided a face component as described above), while maintaining attributes associated with and sought in connection with a blade-type putter. 
     In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 24 , the putter head  300  includes a club head center of gravity  358 . The club head is shown in the soled position. A first vertical plane  360  is passes through the forwardmost point of the striking face of the club head and extends in the heel-to-toe direction. The depth of the center of gravity (Dcg) is measured in the forward-to-rearward direction and in a lateral plane (parallel to the ground plane, which coincides with the plane of the paper in  FIG. 24 ), as the shortest distance between the first vertical plane  360  and the center of gravity  358 . Preferably, Dcg is no less than 12 mm, more preferably within the range of 12 mm to 18 mm. The club head  300  also has an overall depth (Dch) measured as the lateral distance between the first vertical plane  360  and a second vertical plane  364  that is parallel to the first vertical plane and passes through a rearwardmost point of the club head  300 . Dch is preferably no greater than 45 mm, more preferably within the range of 20 mm to 40 mm, and even more preferably between 25 mm and 35 mm. Preferably, the ratio of Dcg to Dch is no less than 0.42, more preferably between about 0.42 and 0.48. Such parameters may improve forgiveness of the club head on off-centered shots. 
     Additionally, or alternatively, the putter head  300  of  FIG. 23( a )  preferably comprises a mass between about 300 g and about 420 g, more preferably between about 325 g and about 380 g, even more preferably between about 340 g and about 350 g. The putter head  300  further comprises a volume preferably between about 40 cc and 80 cc, more preferably between about 50 cc and 70 cc, even more preferably between about 55 cc and about 65 cc. Additionally, or alternatively, a ratio of volume to mass is preferably no less than 0.14 cc/g, more preferably no less than 0.17 cc/g. Additionally or alternatively, the ratio of volume to mass is no greater than 0.22 cc/g, more preferably no greater than 0.20 cc/g, and even more preferably no greater than 0.18 cc/g. 
       FIG. 25( a ) - FIG. 28( e )  illustrate additional embodiments. In each such embodiment, a putter type golf club head is shown preferably including a main body and a front face insert assembly having dimensions, properties, and any or all other likeness of the front face insert assembly of the embodiments described with regard to  FIGS. 1-24 . Particularly, with regard to the embodiments of  FIGS. 25( a )-28( e ) , respectively-described main bodies may be formed by die-casting, as described above as optionally applied to the embodiments of  FIGS. 1-24 . However, alternatively, the respectively-described main bodies of the embodiments of  FIGS. 25( a )-28( e )  may be investment casted, which may minimize potential detraction to the appearance of the club heads due to the relatively high level of porosity associated with, e.g., aluminum or aluminum-alloy in association with die casting. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 25( a )-25( d ) , a putter-type golf club head  400  is shown. The club head  400  includes a main body  402  and a face component  404  that includes a first insert  426  and a second insert  428  optionally having dimensions, structure, composition and any and all other likeness of the face components variously described in conjunction with the club head embodiments shown in  FIGS. 1-24 . The second insert  428  includes a front face and rear face opposite the front face, the front face preferably defining the striking face  430  of the club head  400 . 
     In particular the face component  404  preferably tapers from a minimum front-to-rear thickness tmin to a maximum front-to-rear thickness tmax. Tmin is preferably between about 7 mm and 10 mm, more preferably between about 8 mm and 9 mm, and even more preferably between about 8 mm and 8.5 mm. Tmax is preferably between about 8 mm and 11 mm, more preferably between about 9 mm and 10.5 mm, even more preferably between about 9.25 mm and 10.0 mm, and yet even more preferably substantially equal to about 9.7 mm. Additionally, or alternatively, the ratio, Tmin/Tmax, is preferably between 80% and 95%, more preferably between 82% and 91%, and even more preferably between 85% and 90%. These dimensions may enable the club head  400  to beneficially exhibit the variable impact response as described with regard to similar features of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     Additionally, or alternatively, the first insert  426  tapers in thickness in similar manner to that of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 . Specifically, the first insert  416  preferably tapers from a maximum thickness (measured in the front-to-rear direction) to a minimum thickness (measured in the front-to-rear direction). The minimum thickness is preferably located at an uppermost portion of the first insert  416 . The minimum thickness is preferably between about 3 mm and 5.5 mm, more preferably between about 3.5 mm and 5 mm, even more preferably between about 4 mm and 4.75 mm. The maximum thickness is preferably between about 4 mm and about 6.5 mm, more preferably between about 5 mm and about 6 mm, even more preferably between about 5.0 mm and 5.75 mm. Additionally, or alternatively, a ratio of the minimum thickness to the maximum thickness is preferably between about 70% and 90%, more preferably between about 75% and about 85%, even more preferably between about 77% and about 83%. These dimensions may enable the club head  400  to beneficially exhibit the variable impact response as described with regard to similar features of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     In this embodiment, the main body  402  includes a blade portion  408  and a rear portion  432  extending rearward from the blade portion  408 . The rear portion includes a toe mass  403 , a heel mass  407  and a cavity  409  located between the toe mass  403  and the heel mass  407 . Preferably, the cavity  409  is generally centrally located in the heel-to-toe direction relative to a geometric center  405  of the striking face  430  (see e.g.  FIG. 25( e ) ). The cavity  409  defines a heel side wall  409 ( a ), a toe side wall  409 ( b ) and a bottom wall  409 ( c ). 
     An alignment feature  411  extends upward from the bottom surface  409 ( c ) of the cavity  409  and abuts the rear surface  416  of the blade portion  408  of the club head  400 . The alignment feature  411  is preferably dimensioned and includes any or all characteristics of like alignment features described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/587,242, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     The alignment feature  411  includes a heel side surface  411 ( a ), a toe side surface  411 ( b ), a top surface  411 ( c ) located between the heel side surface  411 ( a ) and the toe side surface  411 ( b ), and a rear surface  411 ( d ). Preferably, the top surface  411 ( c ) is arcuate, optionally defining a virtual central axis  413  extending laterally in the generally front-to-rear direction. However, in other embodiments, the top surface  411 ( c ) is planar or quasi-planar, or includes any other contour. 
     Referring specifically to  FIG. 25( b ) , to enhance visibility of the top surface of the alignment feature  411 , indicia  415  is preferably applied thereto for purposes of generating visual contrast with other portions of the club head  400 , preferably portions adjacent to the indicia  415  and/or having the appearance of adjacency when the club head  400  is viewed in top plan. The indicia may comprise a media-blasted region (e.g. sand-blasted region), a chemically etched region, a painted region, a PVD region, an anodized region, an electro-plated region, or a region formed by any other means known to alter the appearance of the top surface  411 ( c ) of the alignment feature  411 . Preferably, the top surface  411 ( c ) of the alignment feature  411  is laser etched. In this manner, no reveal or recess need be formed to contain a paint or other liquid, and manufacturing processes, e.g. additional masking and polishing steps (which steps may be required during a media blasting operation), may be minimized. 
     Referring particularly to  FIG. 25( c ) , the bottom portion  406  includes an exterior bottom surface  414 . The bottom surface  414  preferably includes a heel to toe camber and preferably a front to rear camber. The front-to-rear camber is preferably dimensioned to define a radius of curvature of no less than 5 in, more preferably no less than 10 in. In some embodiments, the front-to-rear sole camber defines a substantially constant radius of curvature, or at least defines a constant radius of curvature over a majority of the length of the bottom surface  414 . However, in other embodiments, front-to-rear sole camber varies, optionally continuous or in a step-wise manner. In any such embodiment, the sole camber radius of curvature corresponds to the general contour of the bottom surface  414  of the bottom portion  406  thus accounting for minor deviations in the contour of the sole, e.g. small-scale recesses and reveals. By applying a front-to-rear sole camber, relief may be provided in cases of putter strokes that graze closely to a ground surface. 
     In addition, or alternatively, the sole is preferably contoured (and mass is preferably distributed about the club head  400 ) such that the club head (when associated with a conventional shaft and enabled to freely rest on a ground surface such that the shaft is oriented at the designated lie angle of the club head) exhibits a face angle that is no greater than 5°, more preferably no less than 3°, and even more preferably within the range of 1-3°. By configuring the club head  400  in this manner, the golfer may be less distracted by natural rotation of a club head upon free placement on a ground surface e.g. during a static alignment process. I.e., the possibly-undesirable tendency of a putter head to “flop open” upon grounding is minimized. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 26( a )-26( f ) , a putter-type golf club head  500  is shown. The club head  500  includes a main body  502  and a front face insert component  504  that includes a first insert  526  and a second insert  528  optionally having dimensions, structure, composition and any or all other likeness as in the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 1-24 . In the embodiments of  FIGS. 26( a )-26( f ) , the main body  502  includes a blade portion  508 , a central elongate portion  510 , and a mass ring  511 . The blade portion  508  includes a front surface  530  to be secured to the front face component  504  and a rear surface  507  opposite the front surface  530 . The central elongate portion  510  extends rearward from the blade portion  508  and includes a top wall  510 ( a ), a bottom wall  510 ( b ), a central wall  510 ( c ), and a rear wall  510 ( d ). The top wall  510 ( a ) extends generally horizontally when the club head  500  is oriented in a reference position relative a ground plane  568  as shown e.g. in  FIG. 26( b ) . The bottom wall  510 ( b ) is sloped relative to the virtual ground plane  568  and extends gradually upward rearwardly to associate with the rear wall  510 ( d ), communicating between the top wall  510 ( a ) and the bottom wall  510 ( b ). 
     The central wall  510 ( c ) extends general vertically and generally perpendicular relative to a general plane of a striking face  530  of the club head  500 . The central wall  510 ( c ) may provide structural support for the putter head  500  and may reduce undesirable low frequency vibrations on impact of the club head  500  with a golf ball. A support wall  513  is further located between the mass ring  511  and the bottom wall  510 ( b ) of the central elongate member  510 . The support wall  513  may further provide structural support of the club head  500  and may further reduce propagation of undesirable low frequency vibrations upon impact with a golf ball. 
     The mass ring  511  may serve to relocate discretionary mass further from a center of gravity of the club head  500 , increasing moment of inertia of the club head  500 , particularly moment of inertia (Izz) measured about a vertical axis passing through the center of gravity when the club head  500  is oriented in the reference position. Alternatively, or in addition, to the support wall  513 , a damping system, such as any of the damping systems described above with regard to the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 1-24 , may be applied to either (or both) of the central elongate portion  510  and the mass ring  511  to further (or substitutably) reduce believed to be undesirable low-frequency vibrations which may emanate based on impact of the golf club head  500  with a golf ball. 
     A hosel component  524  extends from an upper surface  512  of the main body  502 . The hosel component  524  may be integrally formed with the main body  502  or alternatively, may be an aft-attached component that is permanently, or semi-permanently, secured to the main body  502 . Referring specifically to  FIG. 26( b ) , the hosel component comprises a positive-type hosel component and may be adapted to snugly fit within an interior bore of a conventional golf shaft. Alternative hosel configurations are contemplated including those including an internal bore for receipt of a golf shaft therewithin, or “hosel-less” type club heads in which a portion of the main body is bored-through to enable receipt of a conventional golf shaft. 
     As shown, the hosel component  524  defines a longitudinal axis  509 . The longitudinal axis  509  is preferably canted forward. Particularly, when the club head  500  is oriented in the reference position relative to the virtual ground plane  568 , as projected in a vertical plane perpendicular to the general plane of the striking face  530 , the longitudinal axis  509  forms an angle ω relative to vertical. Preferably, the angle ω is no less than 1°, more preferably between 2° and 10°, even more preferably between 4° and 8°, and even yet more preferably substantially equal to about 6°. 
     The hosel component  524  may include a boss  524 ( a ) and a shoulder element  524 ( b ) that is located between the boss element  524 ( a ) and the main body  502 . The boss  524 ( b ) preferably includes an upper abutment surface  524 ( c ) that generally lies in a plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis  509 . In this manner, a conventional golf shaft may be tip-cut squarely and still robustly contact the abutment surface  524 ( c ), promoting secure engagement. 
     By canting the hosel component  524  in this manner, a shaft having a bend, or double-bend, could be applied while conforming to the USGA regulations regarding shafts as described above. The forward-canting nature of the hosel component  524  enables deviation in shaft longitudinal path at a point closer to the tip end of the shaft, as compared with a hosel component that is no so canted. The forward-canting nature of the hosel component  524  may be further desirable in view of the relatively high thickness of the face component  504 , as described above with regard to the embodiments of  FIGS. 1-24 . As the thickness of the insert component  504  is high, a thin flange  550  preferably extends above the insert component  504 , dimensioned as with regard to the embodiments of  FIG. 1-24 . 
     The combination of thick front insert component  504  and thin flange  550  may result in a reduced-stability heel-side region of the upper surface of the main body  502  where a shaft may typically be secured, e.g. due to shaft torsion being centered about an axis that does not extend into a relatively solid portion of the main body  502 . Canting the hosel component  524  in the manner described above enables the centering of shaft torque about an axis extending through a more solid portion of the main body  502  of the club head  500 , increasing structural integrity. 
     In some embodiments, the various surfaces of the club head  500  are CNC-machined, particular interfaces between the front insert component  504  and the main body to ensure predetermined tolerances are met and/or to correct for misalignment and tolerances in manufacturing. Referring specifically to  FIG. 26( c ) , alternatively, or in addition, a thin bevel  531  at least partially, and preferably entirely, circumscribes the striking face  530 . The bevel  531  may be formed by milling, preferably using a diamond-coated mill bit. The bevel  531  may, provided reflectance of light, enhance the visibility of the bounds of the striking face to a golfer in the midst of play, improving alignment and reducing mis-hits. 
     Referring to  FIG. 27( a ) - FIG. 27( f ) , a putter-type golf club head  600  is shown including a main body  602  and a front face insert assembly  604  having dimensions, properties, and any or all other likeness of the front face insert component of any of the embodiments described with regard to  FIGS. 1-24 . The insert assembly  604  defines a putter head striking face  630 . 
     In this embodiment, the club head  600  includes a blade portion  608  and a rear portion  632  extending rearward from the blade portion  608 . The rear portion  632  includes a toe mass  603 , a heel mass  607 , and a cavity  609  located generally between the toe mass  603  and the heel mass  607 . Preferably, the cavity  609  is generally centrally located in the heel-to-toe direction relative to a geometric center  605  of the striking face  630 . 
     The toe mass  603  preferably defines a toe-side recess  611  that preferably extends the majority of the thickness of the toe mass  603 , and more preferably extends entirely through the toe mass  603 . Similarly, the heel mass  607  preferably defines a heel-side recess  613  that preferably extends the majority of the thickness of the heel mass  607 , and more preferably extends entirely through the heel mass  607 . In some embodiments, the heel-side recess  613  and the toe-side recess  611  are similar in shape, particularly when viewed vertically from above and/or as the heel-side recess  613  and the toe-side recesses  611  are projected in a plane parallel to the ground plane  668 , when the club head  600  is oriented in the reference position. In some embodiments, the heel-side recess  613  and the toe-side recess  611  are mirror-image in shape, particularly when viewed vertically from above and/or as the heel-side recess  613  and the toe-side recesses  611  are projected in a plane parallel to the ground plane  668 , when the club head  600  is oriented in the reference position. These configurations may improve the golfer&#39;s ability to correctly align the putter head  600  with a golf ball in the midst of play, during either a static alignment process or, dynamically, during a swing. 
     The heel mass  607  and toe mass  603  may serve to relocate discretionary mass further from a center of gravity of the club head  600 , increasing moment of inertia of the club head  600 , particularly moment of inertia (Izz) measured about a vertical axis passing through the center of gravity when the club head  600  is oriented in the reference position. 
     An alignment feature  615  is secured to the blade portion  608  of the club head  600  and extends rearward therefrom. In this particular embodiment, the alignment feature  615  comprises a plate-like wall  621  that defines a generally planar upper surface  617  and, optionally, a generally planar bottom surface  625 . The upper surface  617  preferably generally defines a plane that is parallel to the ground plane  668 , when the club head  600  is oriented in the reference position. Indicia  619  is located on the upper surface  617  providing an indicator that may be intended to assist golfer in aligning the club head  600  with a golf ball. In some embodiments, the indicia  619  comprises a shallow groove or reveal in the form of a rectangular shape, more preferably a square shape, when viewed vertically from above the club head  600 . However, other shapes and configurations are possible, including those that include indicium that are offset vertically and combine to form a complete shape when properly viewed vertically from above. Alternative or additional configurations for alignment features may be selected from those described in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 14/166,289 and 14/311,047, herein incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
     Preferably the wall  621  is further supported by a generally vertically-extending support wall  623  that couples the wall  621  to the upper surface of the rear portion. Preferably, support wall  623  is generally centrally located in the heel to toe direction, i.e. generally aligned with the geometric center  605  of the striking face  630  in the heel to toe direction. However, the support wall  623  may alternatively be offset from the geometric center  605  in the heel to toe direction. In some embodiments, plural vertical support walls secure the wall  621  to the upper surface of the rear portion  632 . In such cases, preferably, a first such support wall is located heelward of the geometric center of the striking face of the club head and a second support wall is located toeward of the geometric center of the striking face. The golf club head  600  preferably includes sole camber configured as described with regard to the embodiments of  FIGS. 25( a )-25( d ) . Additionally, or alternatively, the golf club head  600  preferably includes a hosel component being configured in any of the manners described with regard to the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 26( a )-25( c ) . 
     Referring to  FIG. 28( a ) - FIG. 28( g ) , a putter-type golf club head  700  is shown including a main body  702  and a front face insert assembly  704  having dimensions, properties, and any or all other likeness of the front face insert component of any of the embodiments described with regard to  FIGS. 1-24 . The insert assembly  704  defines a putter head striking face  730 . The main body  702  includes a blade portion  708  having a top line  738 , a front surface (not shown) to which the front insert assembly  704  is secured, and a rear surface  716  opposite the front surface. 
     A central elongate member  710  is associated with the rear surface  716  of the blade portion  708 . The central elongate member  710  may include an upper wall  721  having an upper wall top surface  717  that generally defines a planar surface that is generally parallel to the ground plane  768 . The top surface  717  of the upper wall  721  of the central elongate member may include thereon alignment indicia  719 . Indicia  719  may provide an indicator intended to assist a golfer in aligning the club head  700  with a golf ball. In some embodiments, the indicia  719  comprises a single shallow groove or reveal in the form of a rectangular shape, more preferably a square shape, when viewed vertically from above the club head  600 . Alternatively, and as shown particularly in  FIG. 28( b ) , in some embodiments, the indicia  719  comprises plural, e.g. two, shallow grooves or reveals in the form of rectangular shapes, more preferably square shapes, when viewed vertically from above the club head  700 . However, other indicia shapes and configurations are possible, including those that include indicium that are offset vertically and combine to form a complete shape when properly viewed vertically from above. Alternative or additional configurations for alignment features may be selected from those described in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 14/166,289 and 14/311,047, incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
     The central elongate member  710  further includes a lower wall  727  that extends from the rear surface  716  of the blade portion  730  and couples with the upper wall  721  at a rear surface  729  of the club head  700 . The bottom (lower) wall  727  include a bottom wall upper surface  727 ( b ) and a bottom wall lower surface  727 ( a ), the bottom wall lower surface  727 ( a ) defining a generally planer surface. However, the bottom wall lower surface  727 ( a ) optionally includes, e.g., small-scale recesses or reveals, and/or heel-to-toe camber e.g. having aspects described with regard to the heel-to-toe camber of the club head embodiments of  FIGS. 25( a )-25( d ) , and/or front to rear camber e.g. having aspects described with regard to the heel to toe camber of the club head embodiments of  FIGS. 25( a )-25( d ) . 
     In some embodiments, the lower wall  727  generally takes the same form or shape as the upper wall  721 , such that the lower wall  727  may not be visible when viewed vertically from above. However, in other embodiments, such as the embodiment shown particularly in  FIGS. 28( b ) and 28( c ) , the shape of the lower wall  727  differs from the shape of the upper wall  721 . Specifically, in some embodiments, the upper wall  721  forms a generally rectangular shape elongate in the front-to-rear direction, the rearmost edge  721 ( a ) optionally following an arcuate path (see e.g.  FIG. 28( b ) ). In contrast, as shown, the lower wall  727  may have a forward portion  729  that forms a generally triangular shape. The lower wall  727  further comprises a rearward portion  731  having a generally rectangular shape, also elongate generally in the front-to-rear direction. The forward portion  729  of the lower wall  727  preferable tapers in width toward the rearward portion  731 . The rearward portion  731  also preferably has a width measured in the heel-to-toe direction that is less than a width of the upper wall  721  also measured in a heel-to-toe direction. 
     In some embodiments, a vertical support wall  733  (see e.g.  FIG. 28( d ) ) joins that upper wall  721  with the lower wall  727  and, optionally, joins with the rear surface  716  of the blade portion  730  of the main body  702 . The support wall  733  preferably extends generally vertically and in the front-to-rear direction. Preferably, the support wall  733  is located in a generally central heel-to-toe location, i.e. generally aligned with a geometric center  752  of the striking face  730  in the heel to toe direction. The support wall  733  may extend the entire longitudinal length of the central elongate member  710 . However, in some embodiments, the support wall  733  terminates at rearwardmost end that is forward of the rearwardmost end of the central elongate member  710 . However, in some embodiments, a support wall is offset from this central heel-to-toe location or extends generally in a heel-to-toe direction instead of in a front-to-rear direction. In some embodiments, plural, e.g. two, support walls adjoin the upper wall  721  and the lower wall  727 . In such cases, one such support wall is located heelward of the geometric center  752  of the striking wall and one such support wall is located toeward of the geometric center  752  of the striking face  730 . However, other configurations are also contemplated. 
     The main body  702  further includes a heel arm  711  that extends rearwardly from the rear surface  716  of the blade portion  730  proximate the heel portion  713  of the club head  700  and a toe arm  712  that extends rearwardly from the rear surface  716  of the blade portion  730  proximate the toe portion  715  of the club head  700 . Preferably the heel arm  711  and the toe arm  712  are symmetric about a vertical plane perpendicular to the general plane of the striking face  730 . Further, the heel arm  711  and the toe arm  712 , in this embodiment, preferably converge rearwardly to adjoin with the central elongate member  710 . The heel arm  711  preferably includes a heel arm forward portion  711 ( a ) and a heel arm rearward portion  711 ( b ). The toe arm  712  preferably includes a toe arm forward portion  712 ( a ) and a toe arm rearward portion  712 ( b ). Each of the heel arm forward portion  711 ( a ) and the toe arm forward portion  712 ( a ) comprise generally planar walls that are generally planar in a plane generally parallel to the ground plane  768 . 
     Each of the heel arm rearward portion  711 ( b ) and the toe arm rearward portion  712 ( b ) adjoin the respective heel arm forward portion  711 ( a ) and the toe arm forward portion  712 ( a ) with the central elongate member  710 . Also, each of the heel arm rearward portion  711 ( b ) and the toe arm rearward portion  712 ( b ) comprise generally planar walls that generally extend about planes that are inclined relative to the ground plane. Particularly, each such wall is preferably inclined in a vertical plane that extends in the heel to toe direction. In such a plane, each of the heel arm rearward portion  711 ( b ) and the toe arm rearward portion  712 ( b ) are inclined relative to the ground plane by an angle between 10° and 60°, more preferably between about 30° and 55°, and even more preferably between about 40° and 50°. These configurations balance: (a) the redistribution of mass away from a center of gravity of the club head, thereby increasing club head moment of inertia; (b) structural integrity of the club head  700 , particularly the central elongate member  710 ; and (c) minimization of the propagation of believed to be undesirable low frequency vibrations upon impact with a golf ball. 
     While various features have been described in conjunction with the examples outlined above, various alternatives, modifications, variations, and/or improvements of those features and/or examples may be possible. For example, one of ordinary skill in art may appreciate that any association with one or more aspects to putter-type club heads may be similarly applied to, and be similarly advantageous in, wood-type club heads, hollow-type club heads, iron-type club heads, wedge type club heads, and/or hybrid type club heads. Accordingly, the examples, as set forth above, are intended to be only illustrative. Various changes may be made without departing from the broad spirit and scope of the underlying principles.