Putting is widely considered the most important skill to learn in golf. Choosing the right putter can make all the difference in your putting success. One factor that many golfers overlook is the length of the putter shaft.
While standard putter shafts typically range from 33 to 35 inches, some players may require a longer or shorter club to fit their height and putting style.
If you find yourself struggling with your putting stroke, you may be wondering if extending your putter shaft is the solution.
In the article below, we are going to cover all you need to know about extending your putter shaft as well as how to do it. Plus, we’ll cover some alternatives that you should consider before modifying your shaft. We have a lot to cover so let’s jump in!
Factors To Consider Before Extending Your Putter Shaft
Extending a putter shaft can be a tricky process, as it requires careful consideration of several factors. Here are some important things to consider before attempting to extend a putter shaft:
Length Of The Putter Shaft
When extending a putter shaft, you need to determine the desired length of the shaft. The length of the putter shaft should be based on your height, arm length, and personal preference. Generally, putters come in standard lengths of 33, 34, and 35 inches. If you are taller or have longer arms, you may need a longer putter shaft.
Type Of Putter
The type of putter you have will also impact whether or not you can extend the shaft. Mallet putters or putters with non-traditional designs may not be able to be extended, as they have specific weighting and balance that could be affected by extending the shaft.
Balance Of The Putter
The balance of the putter can also be impacted by extending the shaft. If you add too much length to the shaft, the balance of the putter could be thrown off, which could affect your ability to make consistent putts.
What Materials Are Needed To Extend Your Putter Shaft
Once you have considered these factors and determined that extending the putter shaft is the right option for you, here are the tools and materials you will need:
Putter shaft extension: This is a small metal tube that fits over the existing putter shaft, extending its length.
Epoxy: You will need an adhesive epoxy to secure the putter shaft extension to the existing shaft.
Putter grip: You may need to replace the putter grip if you add significant length to the shaft.
Vice grip with shaft clamp: A putter vice is a tool that secures the putter in place while you work on it.
Step By Step Instructions To Extend Your Putter Shaft
Here are the steps to follow to extend a putter shaft:
Remove the existing putter grip: Use a utility knife to carefully cut away the existing putter grip.
Secure the putter in a vice: Use a putter vice to secure the putter shaft in place.
Measure and cut the putter shaft extension: Measure the desired length of the putter shaft and cut the putter shaft extension to the appropriate length.
Apply epoxy to the putter shaft extension: Apply a small amount of epoxy to the inside of the putter shaft extension and slide it over the existing putter shaft.
Allow the epoxy to dry: Let the epoxy dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Install the new putter grip: Slide the new putter grip onto the extended putter shaft.
Pro Tips For Extending Your Putter Shaft
When extending a putter shaft, it is important to take precautions to ensure that the putter remains balanced and functional. Here are some precautions to keep in mind:
Do not extend the shaft too much: Overextending the shaft can throw off the balance of the putter and affect your putting performance.
Use the correct epoxy: Use a high-quality, golf-specific epoxy to ensure a strong and secure bond between the putter shaft extension and the existing shaft.
Seek professional help: If you are unsure about how to extend a putter shaft, it is always best to seek the help of a professional club fitter or golf technician. They can ensure that your putter remains balanced and functional and can make other adjustments to improve your putting performance.
Alternatives to Extending a Putter Shaft
If you are hesitant about extending your putter shaft, there are alternative options that you can consider.
Use of a Longer Putter Grip
Instead of extending the putter shaft, you can opt for a longer putter grip. A longer grip will give you more control over the putter and can help you maintain a consistent putting stroke. It can also add stability to the putter, making it easier to control the clubface at impact.
You can choose from a variety of grip sizes and styles, depending on your preference. A thicker grip can also help reduce hand tension and improve your feel on putts.
However, it’s important to note that using a longer grip will not change the length of the putter, which can be a disadvantage for players who require a longer club to fit their height and putting style.
Use a Belly Putter or Long Putter
Another alternative to extending the putter shaft is to switch to a belly putter or long putter. These putters have longer shafts, which can eliminate the need to extend the putter shaft.
A belly putter has a longer shaft that is anchored against the stomach, while a long putter has an even longer shaft that is anchored to the chest. Both putters can help improve stability and reduce hand and wrist movement during the putting stroke.
However, it’s important to note that belly putters and long putters have been banned in some competitions, and some golfers may not feel comfortable using them.
Additionally, switching to a different putter type may require an adjustment period to get used to the new club and putting style.
Final Thoughts
Extending a putter shaft can be a useful way to customize your club to your specific needs and preferences. However, before extending the shaft, it’s essential to consider the factors mentioned above, such as the length of the putter, type of putter, and balance of the club.
If you’re hesitant about extending the shaft, you can consider using a longer putter grip or switching to a belly putter or long putter. Both options can offer advantages, but it’s essential to choose a club that suits your game and feels comfortable in your hands.
Ultimately, the key to successful putting is finding a club that works for you and practicing consistently to develop a reliable putting stroke.
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