How to Change the Swing Weight of a Golf Club
Swing weight is "the weight of a club measured from a certain fulcrum point at the grip end of the shaft." Understanding the technical definition of swing weight is less important than grasping the general concept--swing weight is how heavy the golf club feels during the swing. Depending on how weight is distributed between the grip, shaft and club head, two clubs with the same overall weight will feel lighter or heavier during the swing.
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Instructions
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Educate yourself about your clubs. Swing weights use an alpha-numeric scale from A-0 to G-10. Most standard sets of men's irons have a swing weight of D-0 or D-1. Find the swing weight by going on the manufacturer's website or taking the clubs to an experienced club fitter.
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Determine the type of adjustment needed. There are three options for altering swing weight: increasing swing weight, decreasing swing weight or correcting differences between clubs to give a set consistent swing weight throughout. See a professional club fitter if you don't already know the correction needed.
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Increase swing weight using these options. Add lead tape to the sole of the club head to increase swing weight approximately one swing weight point for every two ounces of lead tape (depending on the length of the club). Switch to a lighter shaft, such as from steel to graphite, to create a lighter club with more of its overall weight in the club head. Lengthen the shaft length to make the club feel heavier during the swing.
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Decrease swing weight by switching to a heavier shaft (for example, from graphite to steel) or shortening the shaft length. A professional club fitter may also alter swing weight by adding fill material at a point inside the shaft or switching components of the club, such as the grip.
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Correct variance between the swing weights of different clubs by seeing a professional club fitter who can properly diagnose the problem and determine the best option to achieve a uniform set. A club fitter may use any combination of the strategies discussed, including adding lead tape, shortening or lengthening clubs or changing club heads, shafts or grips.
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Tips & Warnings
Swing weight is only one consideration when customizing clubs. Alterations to loft, lie angle, offset, shaft flex, grip and club length can all have significant impact on performance. If you plan to spend significant money on alterations or new custom clubs, go to an experienced club fitter who will conduct a dynamic fitting examining launch angles, spin, ball flight and trajectory, and not simply stand-still measurements of your body and set-up position.
Not all club fitters have the same experience and training. Check credentials to make sure the club fitter is an expert as advertised. Investing in a quality custom fit is just as important as investing in quality clubs.
