Putting Technique with Claw Grip: PGA Expert Alex Elliott Discusses its Functionality
Putting with the Claw Grip: A New Age on the Green
In the ever-evolving world of golf, the claw grip for putting has surfaced as a trendy choice among pros. It's the go-to for some of the world's best players, including the current No.1, Scottie Scheffler. Let's dive into this novel technique that's redefining the putting game.
Whether you're a fan of Gillette or Dapper Dan, when it comes to gripping your putter, there's a myriad of choices. The claw grip, however, has garnered a significant following since its initial endorsement by Mark O'Meara back in 2003. And in 2025, it's the preferred method for many of the PGA Tour's elite.
Alex Elliott, a seasoned PGA pro and social media sensation, has broken down the claw grip for us in this comprehensive guide.
Get Close with the Claw
/Step 1 - The Left Hand Placement/
Adopt your regular putting stance and lightly hold the putter in your left palm with your lifelines. The left hand ascends the grip, differentiating it from a traditional left-hand-low grip. Your left hand's back should then point towards the target.
/Step 2 - The Right Hand Placement/
Create a 'claw' shape with your right hand using the space between your thumb and index finger. Press your four fingers together, forming a pincer, while your thumb takes care of the other claw-like appendage.
/Step 3 - The Stroke/
Opt for a more confined left elbow and imagine the stroke originating from your left wrist. The claw grip design excels in keeping the right hand in check, ensuring it scarcely affects the stroke. Maintain a firmer grip pressure in the left hand, while the right hand functions more like a guide.
The claw grip can be a game-changer for golfers struggling with the yips or inconsistency. Its primary function is to limit the role of an overactive right hand during putting.
While the claw grip isn't a one-size-fits-all panacea for putting issues, it's an effective tool in crafting a consistent stroke that feels comfortable.
Welcome the Claw: Pros, Cons, and Timing
Katie, an Advanced PGA professional, offers insights into the claw grip's benefits, drawbacks, and the ideal situation to give it a try.
Benefits
The claw grip:- Reduces wrist movement- Provides greater stability- Boosts confidence, particularly for short putts
Drawbacks
The claw grip may:- Require a learning curve- Feels uncomfortable for some- Can lead to an overreliance on the left hand
Try the Claw Grip When:
- You struggle with consistency
- Your right hand dominates your putting stroke
- You want to curb the yips
Join the Claw Revolution
So, take a tour through the greens of your local course, adopt the claw grip, and watch your putting game transform. Remember, golf is like baseball; it's just a kid's game played by adults. And who knows, one day your score might climb up to the heights of a Scottie Scheffler or a David Toms.
[1] Golf Monthly: Scottie Scheffler's Claw Grip for Putting [Online] https://www.golf-monthly.co.uk/tour/scottie-scheffler-claw-grip-putter-youtube-video-85732
[2] Instructional Golf: Top 5 Reasons to Use the Claw Grip for Putting [Online] https://www.instructionalgolf.com/top-5-reasons-to-use-the-claw-grip-for-putting/
[3] PGATour.com: 5 PGA Tour pros who use claw grip [Online] https://www.pgatour.com/news/2019/08/28/5-players-using-claw-grip-putter.html
[4] MyGolfSpy.com: Should you use a claw or saw grip for putting? [Online] https://www.mygolfspy.com/should-you-use-a-claw-or-saw-grip-for-putting/
[5] Golf Digest: Gary Woodland adopts claw grip, finishing strong [Online] https://www.golfdigest.com/story/gary-woodland-claw-grip-putting-2020-ppg-champ-final-round
In the realm of golf and sports, the claw grip for putting—a technique championed by the likes of Scottie Scheffler—has emerged as a fitness breakthrough, catering to the game's elite players. For those seeking to elevate their putting game, the claw grip presents an effective solution for addressing inconsistencies and overactive right hands, often seen among golfers.
