TaylorMade Spider FCG Putter Review

Joel Tadman tests the new Spider FCG putter from TaylorMade out on the course

TaylorMade Spider FCG Putter Review
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Golf Monthly Verdict

We didn’t feel like the Spider FCG was quite as forgiving as Spider X but it was certainly very close and it certainly impressed from longer range. The smaller shape means it doesn’t feel cumbersome and the contrasting white and black elements on the crown help highlight alignment more vividly. A very good option for someone seeking forgiveness from a smaller head.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Very easy to align

  • +

    Solid and stable

  • +

    Toe-hanging options to make the transition from a blade easier

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Firm feel might not marry with firmer-feeling golf ball.

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TaylorMade Spider FCG Putter Review

For golfers that like the visuals and forgiveness of the Spider X but want something a little smaller and more blade-like in terms of feel, the new Spider FCG could well be the ideal alternative. 

Starting with the looks it has a smaller, slightly more rounded profile than the Spider X but is arguably easier to aim thanks to the T-shape alignment system. It’s really effective in helping setting the face square, using both the long sightline and contrasting white strip parallel to the leading edge in tandem.

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The new Spider FCG (left) versus the Spider X putter at address

The front weighting of the Spider FCG does feel a little different to the rear weighted Spider X but the performance remained similar once you got used to the feel during your stroke. This putter undoubtedly has a firmer, more solid feel than the Spider X thanks in part to the heavier copper insert, closer to that of what you would experience from solid putters with no grooves on the face.

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But there are grooves, angled at 45°, and they certainly help the ball to hug the ground after it leaves the face. We putted surprisingly well with the TaylorMade Spider FCG, holing a surprising amount of putts from mid and long range. We found it easy to start the ball online thanks to the crown design and the distance control to be very consistent.

The thinner Super Stroke X Traxion Pistol 1.0 PT grip compliments the mid-mallet head size very well and the all-black putter shaft bolsters the premium appeal.

We tested the face-balanced single bend option, which didn’t feel much like a blade but the L-Neck and short slant versions offer progressively more toe hang to make the putter flow and release more like a blade-style putter.

If you decide to buy from this range, take a look at our handpicked TaylorMade discount codes.

Deputy Editor

Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 14 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all equipment and video content at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader or viewer find exactly what they are looking for.

One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 2.8.

Joel's current What's In The Bag?

Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9°, Fujikura Ventus Black 6 S shaft.

Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15°

Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18°

Irons: Titleist T150, 4-PW

Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM10, 50°, 54° and 58°

Putter: LAB Golf DF3

Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x