How to Install a Garsen MAX Grip
Whether you’re using a bench vise or an actual gripping clamp, here is my step-by-step master builder guide to getting any grip from our MAX line installed perfectly.
Step 1: Clamp It Up & Remove the Old Grip Safely
Make sure your putter is clamped securely, and your putter face is aligned straight and vertical.
If it's in a gripping clamp, I usually stand on one side, make a cut to the butt end, flip around, and hit the other side.
Step 2: Strip the Old Tape (Steel vs. Graphite Rules)
If the club has been regripped before, you’re going to need some heat to break down that old glue. Follow these guidelines to avoid damaging the shaft:
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Steel Shafts: Go ahead and use a small propane torch to warm up the tape.
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Graphite Shafts: Heat gun ONLY. A heat gun takes a little longer, but it applies heat evenly and gently so you don't ruin the graphite fibers underneath.
Once heated, you can pick at it with a fingernail or use a tape scraper.
Step 3: Clean & Prep the Surface
Use a little bit of grip solvent on a clean shop rag and give the shaft a good wipe-down. You want a completely clean surface. Let it dry completely—if there's leftover solvent on the shaft, your fresh tape won't stick properly.
Step 4: Measure & Cut Your Double-Sided Tape
Lay your MAX grip on your workbench. Roll out your tape so it extends about 1/8 inch past the butt end of the shaft. Use a pair of sharp, clean scissors to make a nice square cut. Or use a grip tape dispenser for faster, easier cuts.
Step 5: The "No Extra Tape" Sharpie Trick
Hold the new grip next to the shaft and use a Sharpie to make a tiny reference line on the shaft about ⅛ to ½” above where the bottom collar of the grip ends. This line shows you exactly where your tape needs to stop.
Step 6: Apply the Tape
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Peel off both backings from your tape strip. Run your finger down the center to get that first stick, then wrap one side around, followed by the other. Modern grips are thick enough that you won't feel a seam, but keeping all seams on the bottom keeps everything looking pro-level clean.
Take that extra 1/8 inch of tape at the top, twist it slightly, and tuck it into the end of the shaft.
Step 7: Saturate with Grip Solvent
Plug the small vent hole on the butt end of the grip with your thumb. Squeeze a generous amount of solvent inside the grip. Cover the open collar end with your other finger and give it a good shake to coat the entire inside. Slowly tip and slide the grip back and forth over the taped shaft, letting the excess solvent dump out and completely saturate the double-sided tape.
Step 8: Install & Align That MAX Spine
Get the collar started over the shaft and slide the grip down using both hands in one smooth, continuous motion. I keep one hand near the bottom collar and one near the top so I have total control over the entire grip as it glides on. Make sure that prominent center ridge goes straight up on top of the shaft. Remember, since your thumbs sit on the 45-degree angled sides, that center line needs to be as square to your putter face as possible. Step back, lower yourself down to eye level, and look straight down the shaft line. Make sure that ridge isn't snaking or twisting left or right.
Step 9: Tap, Tweak & Let It Set
Take the putter out of the vise. Flip the putter upside down and give the butt end a couple of firm taps on the floor. This makes sure grip is completely seated against the shaft. Set the putter down at address and take a look. Make adjustments now before the solvent completely dries. Set the putter in a safe, temperature-controlled room for 30–40 minutes to let the tape adhere fully.
And that’s all there is to it! Follow these steps and you’ll have your Garsen MAX grip installed straight, secure, and ready to drop putts.
Got Questions? We’re Here to Help!
If you ever get stuck or need help picking out the right regripping gear, hit us up! Drop us a line on Instagram at @Garsen_Workshop, check out our video series on YouTube, or send us an email directly at workshop@garsengolf.com.
Ready to upgrade your putting game? Shop the Garsen MAX Line now and feel the difference!