How to Change Swing Weights

Swing weight is the measurement of the weight distribution of a golf club around a fulcrum point established at a specified distance from the grip end of a golf club. Swing weight does not determine the overall weight of the club, but rather the balance of it. Swing weight, measured on a special swing weight scale, is expressed in letter and number combinations of A to E and 0 to 9. The lightest swing weight possible is A0, while the heaviest swing weight possible is E9. Swing weight can be altered to fit the desired playability of the golf club.

Things You'll Need

  • Swing weight scale
  • Lead tape
  • Drill and bits
  • Pipe cutter or hacksaw
  • Golf club epoxy
  • Shaft extensions
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the current swing weight of the club by measuring it on a swing weight scale. Decide how much to add or subtract from the current weight. Each swing weight point is equivalent to 2 grams.

    • 2

      Increase swing weight be adding lead tape to the sole or back of the club head. Attaching lead tape to any other part of the club head will alter its center of gravity. Half inch wide lead tape requires 4.5 inches to equal 2 grams, or 1 swing weight.

    • 3

      Increase swing weight by adding length to the golf club. Remove the grip and tape. Epoxy a shaft extension into the butt end of the shaft. Wait 24 hours for the epoxy to cure. Cut the extension to the desired length. Install a new grip. A half-inch extension will add 3 swing weight points to the club.

    • 4

      Decrease swing weight by drilling small holes in the club head. Drill the holes in the back or sole of the head.

    • 5

      Decrease swing weight by shortening the club. Remove the grip and tape. Mark the desired cutting length, and cut the shaft with a pipe cutter for steel shafts or hacksaw for graphite shafts. Install a new grip to complete the job. Cutting the shaft a half inch will decrease swing weight by 3 points.