Pin in or out when you have short chips or putts off the green?

Question

When short chip shots or putts from the cut just off the green should the pin come out or stay in?

Answer 1

You'll get a star from me on this one.  I've holed out several times off the green.  None of the times have I done it when I've asked for the flag to be taken out.  I just thought about that when I read the question.  There have been times that I've hit the flag and the ball didn't go in.  I've not had the issue with the ball being wedged between the flag and the hole either.  Basically it's personal preference.  I thought I preferred the flag out, but that isn't the case.  

Answer 2

the rule is if on the green pin has to be out or tended, left in to show hole and taken out when putt is hit, but if on fringe the player has the choice, off green the pin stays in

i choose to always keep the pin in while on the fringe because the chance that i hit it too hard or chip it to far the pin might stop it

Answer 3

In Situations where I am seriously trying to hole the chip....I'd have the pin pulled.......otherwise....it stays in.  Just the way I've always played.

Answer 4

Since these, especially the chip, are shots that you tend to hit a little thin, due to looking up to watch the ball go into the hole, I prefer the pin in, just as a "backstop".

Answer 5

this is a good question and probably the best answer is personal choice. i prefer to leave it in on downhill chips, but i take it out on uphill shots. its mainly just what you feel comfortable with.

Answer 6

i read somewhere that it was mathematically proven that you have a higher chance of getting the ball in the hole of the pin is in the cup.