Steel and graphite need different approaches. Here's how we do both in the shop.
What You'll Need
- Shaft extractor (essential for graphite; recommended for all)
- Heat gun or propane micro-torch (steel only)
- Hosel cleaning bit or long drill bit
- Two-part golf shaft epoxy (24-hour or quick-cure)
- Replacement ferrule sized to the new shaft tip
- 80-grit sandpaper for tip prep
- Bench vise with rubber shaft clamp
- Heat-resistant gloves and safety glasses
- New golf shaft cut to spec
Step 1 — Remove the Grip
Cut or pull off the old grip (see our re-grip guide). You need clear access to the butt end for the puller.
Step 2 — Pull the Head
Steel Shafts — Heat Gun or Torch
- Clamp the shaft in the vise. Leave the ferrule on to shield the shaft from stray heat.
- Apply heat to the hosel, rotating the club, for 15–20 seconds.
- With heat-resistant gloves, twist and pull the head off the shaft. If it resists, reheat for another 10 seconds.
Graphite Shafts — Extractor Method
Never apply a flame directly to graphite — the resin will burn and the carbon fiber will delaminate.
- Mount your shaft extractor in the vise and clamp the shaft in the puller jaws.
- Apply heat from a heat gun (not a torch) to the hosel, keeping the source moving.
- As the epoxy softens, ratchet the extractor's bolt to push the head off.
- Stop heating the instant the head releases.
Step 3 — Clean and Prep
- Drill the old epoxy from inside the hosel with a hosel cleaning bit while it's still warm.
- Prep the new shaft tip:
- Steel: abrade the tip with 80-grit sandpaper for epoxy bite.
- Graphite: scuff the clear coat only — never sand into the carbon fiber itself.
- Slide the new ferrule onto the shaft.
Step 4 — Epoxy and Insert
- Mix two-part shaft epoxy on a clean surface, equal parts A and B.
- Coat the inside of the hosel and the prepped shaft tip.
- Insert the shaft, twisting slightly as you push it home to spread the epoxy.
- Align the shaft logo or spine to your spec, then slide the ferrule flush against the hosel.
- Wipe excess epoxy with a solvent-dampened rag.
Step 5 — Cure, Cut, Re-Grip
Stand the club shaft-up and cure 24 hours (or per your epoxy's spec). Cut to final length from the butt end, then install your grip.
Important Notes
- Always use a shaft extractor for graphite. Pulling with pliers twists the carbon fibers and ruins the shaft.
- Heat the hosel only, never the shaft.
- Don't shortcut cure time. A club hit before full cure can launch the head.