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Plumb-bobbing with your putter is legal. The keychain has nothing to do with golf, and would be considered an "unusual device." That's what would make it illegal, I'm sure.

Hacker, from the name, it does sound like a training aid. It has Leadbetter's name on it, and it sounds like it is one of those gloves that help promote a cupped front wrist at impact. But, if you clicked on the link you'd find it is just a glove. And it does specifically say it is USGA legal, probably to differentiate it from some of Leadbetter's training aid gloves which as you pointed out are not legal for handicap play.

I think you identified it here, low. I agree now that a retractor would not be legal. The rule suggests that you contact the USGA if there is any question, though I think that they will probably say the same things.

Since you are looking for a straight line, I don't see why you can't just used the shaft of the putter. Or the shadow from the shaft of your putter.

The glove says that it has "visual indicators" to help promote a proper grip. It doesn't do anything to physically aid in the swing, so that is why I believe it is approved.

As far as the keychain thing, I think that takes you into a very shady place. I would certainly never use such a thing without specific approval from the USGA. As mentioned, there are legal options that would serve the same purpose.

i did click the link and right above the picture of the glove it say's training aids. and in the left hand navigation sectinos with the maroon background it is in the training aids section. but yeah i didn't realize it was aproved.

So that would mean I can put a mark on my glove? All I'm doing is putting a dot to see where my first knuckle is on my index finger.

14-3. Artificial Devices, Unusual Equipment and
Unusual Use of Equipment


Except as provided in the Rules, during a stipulated round the
player must not use any artificial device or unusual equipment,
or use any equipment in an unusual manner:
a. That might assist him in making a stroke or in his play; or
b. F or the purpose of gauging or measuring distance or
conditions that might affect his play; or
c. That might assist him in gripping the club, except that:
(i) plain gloves may be worn;
(ii) resin, powder and drying or moisturizing agents may be
used; and
(iii) a towel or handkerchief may be wrapped around the grip.

If you can tell me why the Leadbetter glove is approved I would believe you. That glove obviously helps you grip the club and it could help you get a stroke.

Heck if all this stuff is legal i will install a laser leveler in my putter.

I'm not asking you to belive me. I'm telling you the rules. Interpret them any way you like.

It seems fairly important that the Rule specifically says "plain gloves". I don't know if the word "plain" means only that it restricts physical assistance, or if it also extends to a visual aid.