The game of golf is one of precision and technique, which can often hinge on the smallest of details. One such detail, often overlooked, is the condition of your putter grip.
Over time, grips wear out, affecting your putting stroke's consistency.
If you've noticed your putter grip showing signs of wear or simply fancy an update, changing your putter grip is really easy to do at home and can help save you some money.
Here's a simple guide on how to change your putter grip at home:
1. Gather the Necessary Tools
Before diving in, ensure you have the following tools to help make the process quick and easy:
- A new Welton Golf putter grip
- Double-sided grip tape
- Grip solvent (e.g. white spirit)
- A utility knife or hook blade
- A rubber vise clamp (optional)
- A towel
2. Secure Your Putter
Using the rubber vise clamp, secure the putter shaft in a vise. This ensures stability while you work on the grip.
If you don't have a vise or a vise clamp it's not an issue. You can simply hold the club in your hand to work on it.
3. Remove the Old Grip
With the utility knife or hook blade, cut through the old grip. Start from the bottom, moving upwards to avoid any accidents.
For this step, it's very important to do it slowly and carefully to avoid any slips with the blade.
If you've got a graphite shaft, you need to be extra careful to not cut into the shaft and damage it.
Once cut, peel off the grip.
4. Clean the Shaft
Once the old grip is off, you'll notice remnants of the old tape. Remove this using the blade and then clean the shaft thoroughly.
A clean shaft ensures the new grip adheres properly.
5. Apply the New Tape
Take the double-sided grip tape and wrap it around the shaft where the new grip will sit.
Ensure it's smooth and free from creases.
The tape's length should pretty much match the length of the new grip. It's better to have tape which is shorter rather than longer otherwise it will stick out past the new grip.
6. Prep the New Grip
Before sliding on the new grip, it needs some lubrication to ensure it fits smoothly.
Pour some grip solvent into the grip, covering the hole with your finger or a golf tee, and shake it around sop that the inside of the grip is coated.
Pour the excess solvent over the tape-covered part of the shaft, ensuring it's well covered.
7. Slide on the New Grip
With the shaft lubricated, slide the new grip onto the putter shaft.
Ensure it's aligned correctly, with the logo aligning down the centre of the shaft. Push it all the way in until it has no more room for movement down.
8. Adjust and Set
Once the grip is on, you have a short window to adjust its alignment.
Ensure it's set to your preference. Then, leave the putter undisturbed for a few hours, allowing the solvent to evaporate and the grip to set.
9. Final Check
After the grip has set, give it a final check. Ensure it's secure, aligned, and feels comfortable in your hands before you take it out onto the golf course.
Final Thoughts
Changing a golf putter grip is more than just a maintenance task; it's about ensuring every element of your game is at its best.
Using this guide, you'll be able to save on professional regripping costs and add a fresh new look to your putter.
Remember, in golf, as in life, it's the little details that often make the biggest difference.
