Long shafted driver

[ellissmith]

Hi, I'm considering getting a cleveland 270 xl driver, but have noticed that it has a 46.25 inch shaft (longer than I like). Would it be detrimental to hold the grip half or three quarters of an inch from the end?
Thanks
Rob

 

[Maninblack4612]

I often do this in preference to hitting a 3 wood if I want more control. Nothing wrong with doing this, or shortening the shaft. Dispersion should improve, although it will feel lighter to swing.

 

[ScienceBoy]

I have the XL custom and I grip down a little without issue (when my technique is good).

Its fine at that length and I don't have any issue. Its a cracking club and something so minor should not stop you buying it if you really like it too!

 

[ellissmith]

Thanks very much for your help

 

[fundy]

I have the XL custom and I grip down a little without issue (when my technique is good).

Its fine at that length and I don't have any issue. Its a cracking club and something so minor should not stop you buying it if you really like it too!

Cant say I agree with this at all personally and wouldnt call it something minor, the last thing a handicap golfer wants is an overly long driver, sacrificing control so that they can claim it goes even longer. Most would benefit from cutting the shaft down not having a longer one

 

[ScienceBoy]

Cant say I agree with this at all personally and wouldnt call it something minor, the last thing a handicap golfer wants is an overly long driver, sacrificing control so that they can claim it goes even longer. Most would benefit from cutting the shaft down not having a longer one

Could always get it cut down or a new shaft it in, its a great club.

 

[ellissmith]

I've been told by one of my golf mates that shortening a driver will adversely affect the way the club behaves, does anyone know if that's correct?

 

[fundy]

I've been told by one of my golf mates that shortening a driver will adversely affect the way the club behaves, does anyone know if that's correct?

It can affect the swingweight but that can be corrected if you get a pro/club builder to shorten it for you. Other than that it may lose you a few yards but should improve your accuracy

 

[Ethan]

It can affect the swingweight but that can be corrected if you get a pro/club builder to shorten it for you. Other than that it may lose you a few yards but should improve your accuracy

Or it might improve your strike and you gain a few yards.

 

[ScienceBoy]

If you are REALLY concerned then maybe the SLDR mini is more for you instead of a driver.

Personally I don't mind just gripping where I do and solving my problems by improving my technique.

BUT if the SLDR mini had been out when I was choosing a driver (about a year too early) I would probably have got that until I was a much better golfer. I would have then had to rearrange the top end and throw in a lob wedge but hey.

 

[Maninblack4612]

Interesting article here by a scientist who experimented with a long, light driver.

http://www.tutelman.com/golf/clubs/headweight3.php#experience