If a grip went on crooked, or you want to save a near-new grip when swapping shafts, you don't have to cut it off. With compressed air or a quick solvent re-soak, the grip slides clean. Here's how we do both jobs in the shop.
What You'll Need
- Air compressor and a Star Grip air installation gun (35–60 PSI working range)
- Rubber shaft clamp and a bench vise
- Protective sleeve — paper towel tube or clear PVC — for blowoff safety
- Safety glasses
- Shop towel
Method A: Re-Aligning a Misaligned Grip
Use this when the grip is on the shaft but the logo is twisted off-square. Works best within 24 hours of install, before the tape fully sets.
Step 1 — Clamp the Club
Secure the shaft in the vise with a rubber shaft clamp, clubface square.
Step 2 — Loosen the Bond
Slip a sleeve over the grip, insert the air gun nozzle into the vent hole at the butt of the grip, and give a short burst at 35–45 PSI.
Step 3 — Twist Into Position
You have 20–30 seconds. Rotate the grip until the logo squares to the clubface.
Step 4 — Set It
Wipe excess solvent, set the club aside, and let it cure 4–6 hours before play.
Method B: Pulling the Grip Off Intact
Use this to save a grip when moving it to a new shaft or swapping during a build.
Step 1 — Clamp the Club
Secure the club. Always wear safety glasses, compressed air under a grip can launch debris.
Step 2 — Slip On the Safety Sleeve
Cover the grip with a cardboard tube or PVC sleeve. This contains the grip if it balloons under pressure.
Step 3 — Blow It Off
Insert the air gun nozzle into the vent hole at the butt, press firmly to seal, and trigger a steady stream at 35–60 PSI while gently twisting and pulling toward you. The grip will walk up the shaft and off.
Step 4 — Inspect Before Reuse
Check the inside for tears or stretched walls. If the grip ballooned hard, don't reuse it.
Important Notes
- Grips installed with double-sided tape and solvent are much harder to blow off than tapeless or masking-tape installs. Be patient or accept you may sacrifice the grip.
- Never blast air without a safety sleeve. A ruptured grip can hit you in the face.