How to Change a Putter Grip

← Golf Equipment | Golf Clubs

BLOCKQUOTE_0

Quick Answer

• The old grip comes off by dissolving the adhesive with a solvent and sliding it off.
• Installing a new grip means using solvent to activate double-sided tape and a good push-fit.
• Getting the alignment dialed in is key to keeping your stroke consistent.

Who This Putter Grip Change Is For

• Golfers who are noticing their current putter grip is getting slick, worn, or just feels “off.”
• Players who want to customize the feel, thickness, or even the look of their putter grip to match their style.
• Anyone who likes to get their hands dirty and perform their own club maintenance. It’s a pretty satisfying DIY job.

What to Check First for Putter Grip Replacement

• Grip Size and Style: Confirm you’ve got the right size grip. A standard grip is common, but some folks prefer midsize or jumbo. Also, think about the shape – some are more rounded, others have flat sides. This choice can subtly affect your hand placement.
• Essential Tools: Before you start, gather your gear. You’ll need a good quality golf grip solvent (don’t skimp here), double-sided grip tape specifically for golf clubs, a vise with a rubber grip clamp (super important for not damaging the shaft), a sharp utility knife or razor blade, and of course, your new putter grip.
• Shaft Integrity: Take a good look at your putter shaft. Are there any cracks, dents, or signs of damage? If the shaft looks compromised, it’s best to hold off on changing the grip and get it checked out. Trying to force a grip onto a damaged shaft is a recipe for disaster.
• Workspace: Make sure you have a well-ventilated area to work in. Grip solvent can have a strong smell, and you don’t want to be breathing that in for too long. Also, have some old rags or paper towels handy – it can get a bit messy.

Step-by-Step Plan: How to Change a Putter Grip

1. Secure the Putter Shaft: Clamp your putter shaft firmly in your vise. Action: Use a rubber grip clamp to hold the shaft. What to look for: Ensure the clamp is snug enough to prevent any movement during the process, but not so tight that it crushes or dents the shaft. Mistake to avoid: Overtightening the vise, which can permanently damage the shaft and ruin your putter. I learned that the hard way on a driver once. Not fun.

2. Dissolve the Old Grip: Grab your grip solvent. Action: Generously apply the solvent to the old grip, focusing on getting it under the edges and working it down the length of the grip. What to look for: You want the entire grip to be saturated, allowing the solvent to break down the adhesive underneath. Let it sit for a minute or two to really work its magic. Mistake to avoid: Using too little solvent. This is the most common reason people struggle to get the old grip off. It’s better to use too much than too little.

3. Slide Off the Old Grip: Once the solvent has had time to penetrate the adhesive. Action: Gently try to slide the old grip off the putter shaft. You might need to wiggle it back and forth. What to look for: The grip should start to move relatively freely. If it’s still stuck, apply more solvent and give it a bit more time. Mistake to avoid: Ripping or aggressively tearing the old grip off before it’s properly loosened. This can leave stubborn adhesive residue and potentially scratch the shaft.

4. Thoroughly Clean the Shaft: This step is non-negotiable for a good result. Action: Use your utility knife or a razor blade to carefully scrape away all the old grip tape and any remaining adhesive residue from the shaft. What to look for: The shaft should be completely clean and smooth, with no sticky spots or tape remnants. A clean surface ensures the new grip adheres properly. Mistake to avoid: Leaving any old tape or adhesive behind. This will create lumps under the new grip, making it feel uneven and potentially causing it to slip or rotate later.

5. Apply New Double-Sided Grip Tape: Time for the new grip’s foundation. Action: Wrap the shaft with the double-sided grip tape, starting at the butt end of the shaft and working your way down towards the clubhead. What to look for: Overlap each strip of tape by about 1/8 inch to ensure there are no gaps. Smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles as you go. The tape should create a uniform surface. Mistake to avoid: Leaving gaps between the tape strips or having significant wrinkles. This will translate directly into an uneven feel in your hands.

6. Prepare the New Grip for Installation: Get the new grip ready to slide on. Action: Pour a good amount of grip solvent into the open end of the new putter grip. What to look for: Swirl the solvent around inside the grip to coat the inner surface. This lubricates the inside, making it much easier to slide onto the taped shaft. Mistake to avoid: Forgetting to put solvent inside the new grip. This will make installation incredibly difficult and increase the risk of tearing the grip or not getting it fully seated.

7. Install the New Putter Grip: This is the moment of truth. Action: Immediately after lubricating the new grip, quickly and decisively slide it onto the taped shaft. What to look for: As you slide it on, pay close attention to the alignment. Make sure any alignment aids, lines, or markings on the grip are positioned exactly how you want them relative to the putter face. Push the grip all the way down until it butts up against the end of the shaft. Mistake to avoid: Letting the solvent dry before the grip is fully seated and aligned. If it starts to stick before you’ve got it straight, you’ll end up with a crooked grip, which can mess with your putting stroke.

8. Allow the Grip to Set: Give your new grip some time to bond. Action: Let the putter sit undisturbed for the recommended drying time. What to look for: Most grip solvents evaporate quickly, typically within 15-30 minutes, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific solvent and grip you used. The grip should feel secure and firmly attached. Mistake to avoid: Trying to use the putter or putting it back in your bag too soon. This can compromise the bond and lead to the grip loosening or rotating prematurely.

How to Change a Putter Grip: Key Considerations

Changing your putter grip is a straightforward process, but paying attention to a few details can make all the difference. It’s not just about slapping a new grip on; it’s about ensuring it’s perfectly aligned and securely attached to enhance your performance on the greens. The right grip can genuinely improve your feel and confidence, leading to more consistent strokes. Think about how much time you spend putting on the course and the practice green; your hands are the only connection you have to the putter. Making sure that connection is solid and comfortable is paramount.

When you’re looking at new grips, consider the material. Some are softer and tackier, offering more cushioning, while others are firmer and provide more feedback. The size is also a big deal. If you have larger hands, a midsize or jumbo grip can help prevent excessive wrist action. Conversely, a standard or even a slightly thinner grip might be better for players who tend to grip the putter too tightly. It’s a personal preference, and experimenting is part of the fun of customizing your clubs. Don’t be afraid to try different types until you find what feels right for your stroke.

The process of removing the old grip is often the most challenging part for beginners. Patience is key here. That solvent is your best friend. You really need to saturate the old grip to make it slide off without a fight. If you try to force it, you risk damaging the shaft, which is a much bigger problem than a stubborn grip. Once the old grip is off, take your time cleaning the shaft. It might seem tedious, but a clean shaft is the foundation for a secure new grip. Any lingering residue can lead to a grip that feels lumpy or, worse, rotates during your swing.

Applying the grip tape also requires a bit of care. Overlapping it correctly is crucial. Too little overlap and you risk gaps; too much and you might feel a ridge. The goal is a smooth, consistent surface that the new grip can adhere to evenly. When you’re sliding the new grip on, speed and precision are important. Have everything ready to go. Once the solvent is in there, you want to get the grip on and aligned quickly before it starts to dry and grip. This is where you lock in your preferred putter face angle.

Finally, letting the grip dry properly is just as important as the installation itself. Rushing this step can undo all your hard work. Trust the process, let it cure, and then go enjoy the confidence that comes with a fresh, perfectly installed putter grip. It’s a small change that can have a big impact on your game.

Common Mistakes Changing a Putter Grip

• Mistake: Not using enough solvent.
• Why it matters: This is the number one reason grips are hard to remove. You’ll end up wrestling with it, potentially scratching the shaft or damaging the grip beyond reuse.
• Fix: Be generous! Soak the old grip thoroughly. It’s much better to use a little extra solvent than to struggle and risk damaging your equipment. Think of it as giving the old adhesive a spa treatment.
• Mistake: Inadequate shaft cleaning after removing the old grip.
• Why it matters: Any leftover tape residue or adhesive will create bumps and unevenness under the new grip. This can lead to a poor feel, potential slippage, or the grip rotating during your stroke.
• Fix: Be meticulous. Use a rag and solvent or a razor blade to get the shaft perfectly smooth and clean. It should feel slick, not sticky.
• Mistake: Incorrect grip tape overlap or application.
• Why it matters: Gaps in the tape or significant wrinkles will translate directly into an uneven surface on your new grip. This can cause discomfort or affect your grip pressure.
• Fix: Aim for a consistent 1/8-inch overlap with each strip of tape. Smooth it down as you go to eliminate wrinkles. The goal is a seamless layer.
• Mistake: Forgetting to put solvent inside the new grip before installation.
• Why it matters: Without lubrication, the grip will be extremely difficult to slide onto the shaft. You risk tearing the grip, not getting it fully seated, or damaging the tape.
• Fix: Always pour solvent into the new grip. Swirl it around to coat the inside thoroughly. This makes installation a breeze.
• Mistake: Rushing the alignment of the new grip.
• Why it matters: A crooked grip can subconsciously affect your aim and stroke. If your sight lines are off, your putts will likely be off too.
• Fix: Take your time during the installation. Make sure the alignment markings or flat sides of the grip are exactly where you want them relative to the putter face before you push it all the way down.
• Mistake: Using the wrong type of solvent or tape.
• Why it matters: Some solvents might be too harsh for certain grip materials, and using regular tape instead of double-sided grip tape won’t provide the necessary tackiness or thickness.
• Fix: Always use solvents and tapes specifically designed for golf grips. They are formulated to work effectively and safely with the materials involved.
• Mistake: Not allowing sufficient drying time for the new grip.
• Why it matters: If you try to use the putter too soon, the grip might not be fully adhered. This can lead to it loosening, rotating, or even coming off during a stroke.
• Fix: Be patient. Let the grip cure for the manufacturer’s recommended time (usually 24 hours for full adhesion, though many are playable much sooner). Check the instructions on your solvent and tape.

FAQ

• How often should I change my putter grip?

This really depends on how much you play and practice, and the conditions you play in. A good rule of thumb is to inspect your grip every few months. If it feels slick, hard, cracked, or worn down, it’s time for a change. For most golfers, this means replacing the grip every 1-2 years. Some serious players might change them annually to maintain peak performance.

• What is the best solvent for changing a putter grip?

Dedicated golf grip solvent is your best bet. Brands like GolfWorks, Winn, or Pure Grips make excellent solvents specifically formulated for this job. In a pinch, mineral spirits or even rubbing alcohol can work, but they might not be as effective or could potentially affect certain grip materials. Always check the grip manufacturer’s recommendations if you’re unsure.

• Can I use heat to remove an old putter grip?

It’s generally not recommended for putter grips, especially if the shaft is graphite. Heat can soften the epoxy holding the shaft to the hosel, potentially weakening the bond or even causing the shaft to detach. It can also damage graphite shafts. Solvent is the much safer and more controlled method for putter grips.

• How do I know if I have the right grip size for my putter?

Grip size is largely a matter of personal preference and hand size. Standard grips fit a wide range of players. If you have larger hands or find yourself gripping too tightly, you might benefit from a midsize or jumbo grip. If you have smaller hands or feel like you’re gripping too much, a smaller grip might be better. Many golfers experiment with different sizes to find what feels most comfortable and allows for a relaxed, consistent stroke. Check the putter manufacturer’s recommendations or consult with a club fitter if you’re unsure.

• Do I really need a vise and a grip clamp for this job?

While it’s technically possible to change a grip without a vise, it makes the process significantly harder and increases the risk of errors or damage. A vise with a rubber grip clamp is highly recommended. It holds the putter securely, preventing it from moving, and the clamp protects the shaft from being crushed or dented. It makes applying the tape and sliding the grip on much more controlled and professional.

Sources:

• How to Change A Putter Grip: Step-by-Step Guide