The pros and cons of using lead tape vs. tip weights vs. hot melt for swing weight

Quick and easy or precision? Determining the best method for achieving correct swing weight

While all three certainly have their merits, each has some downsides that may also help you choose one method over the others. Let’s take a look at these three options so you can decide for yourself:

Lead Tape

Lead tape is the most versatile when it comes to convenience and speed. Simply weigh the amount of tape on your digital scale to tip the swing weight scale in your favor and stick it where desired. The process can be completed in seconds. It’s also extremely clutch in the fitting bay if the customer needs a heavier weight on the fly. And if you don’t like it, then simply peel it off, no tools required! And while heavy lead tape has a cult following among gearheads, some would describe it as “unsightly”. Or really, just flat-out ugly. It also carries a Cancer and Reproductive Warning under the state of California if that concerns you.

Tip Weights

If you want a cleaner look, tip weights can achieve your swing weight goals while hiding your craft inside the club’s shaft. For steel, tip weights can range from one to ten grams, taper tip or parallel. To make the builder’s life simpler, Mitchell Golf offers a universal Brass Tip Weight Kit that takes the guessing out of the assembly process. Remember, you add the tip weights during the gluing phase. The downside is that any kind of swing weight modifications will require a complete teardown after curing. You’ll also need to watch your CG as the weights sit solely in the heel. The heavier you go, the likelier the hook.

Hot Melt Gun

Your third in-house option is the hot melt gun, which some feel offers a solid one-two punch in weighting and precise CG location. It can also go for the complete knockout if one of the goals is muting the sound of your club at impact. That is, if your clubhead allows you to use this method. Most clubs have a hot melt port for injection. If not, you’ll likely find another way in by removing adjustable weights or unscrewing the adapter. But be forewarned: once the glue is in your club, it’s in there for like, eternity. Because after congealing, there’s no way to liquify the glue and drain it out of the head.

At the end of the day, any one of these options will suit your swing weight goals when it comes to building your final product. It’s just a matter of which method works best for you.