How to Remove Lead Tape From a Tennis Racquet

Pros add lead tape to their rackets to add stability and weight, resulting in more powerful hits. Non-professional players can get the same power. If you've inherited an old taped-up racket, you'll have more trouble removing the lead tape than if the tape job's fairly new.

Things You'll Need

  • Razor or small knife (optional)
  • Blow dryer (optional)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Turn your racket over, looking closely at the lead tape. Find the end of the tape, so you can start unraveling.

    • 2

      Pick at the end of the tape with your fingernail to loosen it. Keep picking at the tape until you get the end loose. If you can't get it to come up with your fingernails, try using a razor or a small knife to scrape up the end. Work slowly and carefully so you don't harm the racket.

    • 3

      Heat up the tape to dissolve the adhesive if you're not able to get the tape up by hand. Plug in a blow dryer, then turn it on hot. Wave the blow dryer over the lead tape for 15 seconds to warm up the glue. Put the dryer down and try to pick up the tape. It should give more easily. If it gives some but not enough, apply more heat and try again.

    • 4

      Grasp the tape once you have freed the end. Unwind the tape from the tennis racket until you're removed it all.