Grip Sizing

Much confusion in grip sizing emanates from the fact that the Golf Industry refers to over and under grip sizes using fractions while grip core size and butt diameters are stated in decimals.

The key then is to understand the commonly used fractions and their decimal equivalents. For example; commonly used grip sizes expressed fractionally are 1/64”, 1/32”, 3'64”, and 1'16” over and in some cases under standard. It is imperative then, to learn the decimal equivalents of these fractions.

1/32" = .030"

3/64" = .045"

1/16" = .060"

These decimal equivalents have been rounded off inasmuch as the Golf Industry does not consider decimal differences of .001” - .005” significant in establishing size designations.

A basic premise to remember in grip sizing is that when the grip core size is the same as the butt diameter, a standard men's ( .900” ) or ladies ( .850” ) will result. For example; an M-58 grip installed on a .580” will result in a .900” standard men's size grip measured 2” from the butt end. Here are some other examples;

M-58 grip on .600 butt = .920" or +1/64" men's standard

M-58 grip on .620 butt = .940" or +1/32" men's standard

An M-58 grip installed on a .600” butt diameter shaft will result in a grip size of .920”. This is considered to 1/64” over men's standard grip size.

ANOTHER POINT OF CONFUSION IS BUILD-UP TAPE:

One layer or 2” wide build-up tape is .005” thick, but when wrapped around a shaft butt it will increase the diameter by .010”.

The 2-way tape used to secure the grip to the shaft should not be considered in calculating grip size.

So, an M-58 grip installed on a .600” butt diameter shaft with one layer of build-up tape added would result in a grip size of .930” or 1/32” over men's standard. Here are some other examples;

M-58 grip on a .620” butt with 2 layers build-up tape = .960” or +1/16” men's standard. 

L-56 grip on a .580” butt with 1 layer build-up tape = .880 or +1/32” ladies standard.