How to Machine a Spline Shaft

Graphite shafts in golf irons and woods all initially start out as a flat sheet of graphite. The sheet is rolled to form a shaft tube and the edges of the sheet are bonded together. This process takes place at the manufacturer and there are those who believe the point at which the two edges of graphite bond together form a spine. Some people then believe they can remove the shaft from their clubs and align the spine in the most appropriate, load bearing area, ideal for their swing. This process is known as "PUREing," "spine aligning," or "splining."

Things You'll Need

  • Vise grip
  • Spine locating device
  • Silver marker
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clasp the graphite shaft in vise grips. You want it to be tight enough to be held in place, but loose enough to allow the shaft to rotate in place.

    • 2

      Insert the tip of the shaft into a spine locating device which looks like a very large pencil sharpener.

    • 3

      Switch the machine to the "on" position and watch the shaft begin to turn clockwise.

    • 4

      Allow the shaft to continue turning until it stops on its own. Once it has stopped, it means the spine has been located and is now at the top, or 12 o'clock position.

    • 5

      Use a silver marker to make a small line on the butt end of the shaft which will be covered eventually by the grip.

    • 6

      Remove the shaft from the spine locating device and from the vise grips and attached the club head so that the spine is in line with the back of the club head.