Refurbishing Golf Clubs: A Step-by-Step Guide for Re-Gripping
As a golfer, knowing how to regrip your golf clubs can save you more than just some coin – it might just save you a decent score, especially in adverse conditions! Replacing worn-out grips with top-notch alternatives can make a noticeable impact.
Sure,cleaning them often helps, but eventually every grip wears out and needs a new lease on life. The cost of replacing all those clubs, though, can sometimes seem a bit daunting. Rebuild the full set or spring for that fancy wedge? Chances are, it'll be the wedge that takes priority. But swapping out golf grips is simpler than many a golfer realizes – and let's be honest, it's way more satisfying than a new club any day!
So here's the lowdown on how to regrip your golf clubs like a pro at home:
Essential Items
- Vise with Rubber Clamp: Protects your clubs from damage while you work.
- Shaft Protector: Prevents damage to the shaft during clamping.
- Hook Blade or Utility Knife: Necessary for cutting and removing old grips.
- Double-Sided Grip Tape: A must-have for securing the new grip.
- Grip Solvent (or Mineral Spirits): Helps slide the new grip onto the shaft.
- New Grips: Choose your favorite type and size.
- Cloth or Paper Towel: For cleaning spills and excess solvent.
Step-by-Step Guide
Prepare the Workspace
- Lay down a cloth or paper to protect your surface from spills.
- Ensure good ventilation if using grip solvent or mineral spirits.
Remove the Old Grip
- Secure the Club: Place the club in a vise with the head pointing up. Use a shaft protector to prevent damage.
- Remove the Old Grip: Carefully use a hook blade or utility knife to cut along the grip, then peel off the old grip and tape.
Clean the Shaft
- Wipe down the shaft using a cloth to remove any residue left by the old grip.
Apply New Grip Tape
- Center and evenly space the grip tape on the shaft.
Prepare the New Grip
- Apply Solvent: Pour a small amount of grip solvent or mineral spirits into the end of the new grip.
- Coat the Inside: Evenly coat the inside surface with the solvent by closing both ends with your fingers and swirling it around.
Install the New Grip
- Align the club under the grip, allowing the solvent to drip onto the tape.
- Slide and Adjust: Quickly slide the grip onto the shaft and make any necessary alignment adjustments.
Secure the Grip
- Tap Into Place: Lightly tap the butt of the grip onto a hard surface to secure it properly.
- Check Alignment: Remove the club from the vise and check the alignment in the address position.
Cleanup
- Wipe up any excess solvent or spills using a cloth.
Test the Grip
- Wait about 30 minutes for the grip to set fully. Then, test it to ensure it feels secure and aligned properly.
Repeat these steps for each club in your set, and you've got yourself a freshly-equipped golf bag that'll take your game to the next level!
Why Should You Regrip Your Clubs?
Worn-out grips can make a significant difference in your performance, especially in humid conditions. Regularly swapping them out ensures you're playing with a solid setup that can help reduce unwanted hand movements and increase consistency.
Signs It's Time to Regrip
- Indentations on the grip, often around the thumb positions, indicate a worn grip. This can lead to a non-conforming club if it becomes too worn.
- A slippery grip feel can affect your grip pressure, causing you to hold on too tightly for security. If this happens, it might be time for a new grip.
Choosing the Right Grip Size and Type
Grip size is subjective and typically depends on personal preference. While traditional advice suggests a fit that allows the fingers of the top hand to lightly touch the thumb fleshy pad when holding the grip, many touring pros opt for unique sizes and even use additional layers of tape to achieve their desired feel. Experiment to find what feels best for you.
When it comes to grip tape, any double-sided adhesive tape will work. While tapes may differ in thickness, keep that in mind if you're looking for consistency throughout your set. Some prefer thinner tape that spirals around the grip instead of a single strip.
Cost of Golf Grips
Prices for golf grips can vary significantly, with budget options starting at around $3 and premium grips reaching up to $30. Keep in mind you may need up to 14 grips (including your putter grip) if you're considering a full set replacement. Specialist, oversized putter grips can be even more pricey.
When Can You Use Your Clubs After Regripping?
Depending on the amount of lubricant used, you'll usually be safe to use your clubs around 30 minutes after regripping. Using them too soon can cause the grip to slip and misalign due to setting too quickly.
With the essential items ready, you can now regrip your golf clubs like a pro. Gather a vise, rubber clamp, shaft protector, hook blade or utility knife, grip solvent, new grips, double-sided grip tape, cloth, and paper towel.Compared to golf clubs, it's amazing how the right choice of golf grips can significantly transform your performance on the golf course. A new grip will not only refresh your clubs' looks but also improve your game, especially in humid conditions.
