The Basics of Swingweight
Gary Mayes, Equip2Golf, Inc.

ave you ever noticed that some clubs feel heavier than others? The weight of a golf club is measured in terms of two variables: total weight and swingweight. Total weight refers to the weight of a complete golf club and is usually expressed in grams. The difference in the heaviness of a club is usually attributed to the design variable known as "swingweight". What is swingweight? Simply put, swingweight is an approximation of how heavy a club feels. Here is a more formal definition:

A measurement that indicates the weight distribution of a golf club around a fixed fulcrum point. It is usually expressed by a letter and number indicator such as A1, B2, C3, D1, etc.

Swingweight is measured using a swingweight scale as shown below. The device was invented by Kenneth Smith in the 1940s and uses a 14" fulcrum capable of reading the club's swingweight as well as total weight. Generally, men's clubs are swingweighted in the low "D" range while women's clubs are in the low to mid "C" range. So why should you care? Typically, a golfer with too light of a club swingweight may have difficulty controlling the club. A golfer with a quick powerful swing may have tendency to swing over the top (i.e. casting). A golfer with too heavy of a club swingweight may feel that he is dragging the club behind. In either case, the resulting swing is less than desirable.

Several factors affect a club's swingweight. The weight of a club's head, shaft, and grip all play a part in determining the club's swingweight. Other equally important factors include the weight and balance point of the shaft and the finished club's length.

How can a club's swingweight be altered? For reference, it is noted that one swingweight point is equal to approximately 2 grams in the clubhead. Given this approximation we can look at the effects of grips and shaft lengths on swingweight. A standard grip (~51 grams) accounts for about 9-10 swingweight points at the butt end of the club. If you reduce the weight in the grip end of a club by 4 grams, the resulting swingweight will increase by 1 swingweight point. If you shorten a club by 1/2" the swingweight will decrease by approximately 3 swingweight points. Conversely, if you lengthen a club by 1/2" the swingweight will increase by approximately 3 swingweight points. Another method to increase swingweight is to add lead tape to the clubhead. A 1/2" wide strip of lead tape 4 1/2" long weighs approximately 2 grams and will add 1 swingweight point to the club. Keep in mind that some of these methods while altering the club's swingweight will also alter the club's total weight.

Swingweight is directly related to feel and golfers need to understand the relationship in order to get equipment best suited for their game. As with other aspects of clubfitting, it is important to experiment with different swingweights to identify the best feel and result. For futher assistance with swingweight and how it relates to your game, see your local PGA professional or accredited clubmaker.