As the head golf instructor at Tell Me More Golf, in this article, I will share our complete guide to adding weight to your putter.

There can be many benefits from changing your putter’s weight distribution, let’s get into it!

Putter Weights Explained

Putter weights are modifications that alter the weight distribution of a putter, which impacts its balance, stability, and feel. These weights can be added or adjusted to improve your putting stroke and optimize performance. 

They come in various forms, including adjustable weights built into the putter head, lead tape applied to get heavier weight in specific areas, and counterbalance grips.

By strategically placing or adjusting these weights, you can fine-tune your putter’s response to off-center hits, enhance forgiveness, and achieve a more consistent and controlled putting stroke. 

How to Add Weight to a Putter

Adding weight to a putter can significantly affect its feel and performance, and there are several ways to do so.

Here are the best three ways to change your putter’s weight distribution: 

Adjustable Putter Weights

Some putters come with adjustable weights that can be added or removed from specific locations on the clubhead. This is a convenient option to change the putter head weight as it offers flexibility and allows you to easily try different weight positions. 

Lead Tape 

Lead tape is probably the most popular and versatile option for adding weight to a putter. It’s a thin strip of adhesive-backed lead that can be easily applied to various parts of the putter, such as the sole, back of the putter head, or even the grip. When doing this, you’re changing the weight of a putter, which can help with distance control and much more. 

This method is cost-effective and allows for precise weight customization.

However, adding strips of lead tape only allows you to increase the head weight, and not reduce it or easily move it around. 

Counterbalance Grips 

Counterbalance grips have additional weight in the grip area, which can change the balance point of the putter. This alteration can affect the overall feel and stability during the stroke. Counterbalance putter grips are a great way to change the weight distribution of a putter, but it can be a bit costly. 

What Putters Have Adjustable Weights?

Many modern putters are designed with adjustable weights, which give you the ability to experiment with different weight configurations.

Adjustable putters often have weight ports in the sole or near the perimeter of the putter head. 

These ports allow you to add or remove weights to achieve the desired balance and feel. Generally speaking, putters with adjustable weight kits are in the premium category, and they cost accordingly. One example is the TaylorMade Spider GT Max. 

Lead Tape on a Putter: How Does It Work?

Lead tape is a simple yet effective solution for customizing the weight of your putter. It works by adding extra mass to specific areas of the clubhead or shaft, altering the club’s balance and the distribution of weight. 

This adjustment can influence the pendulum motion of your putting stroke and the overall stability of the club.

When applying lead tape, it’s essential to start with a small amount and gradually increase the weight until you find the right balance. The placement of the tape is crucial, and experimenting with different positions can help you achieve the desired outcome. Luckily, it’s quite affordable, so you can afford some reiterations. 

Where to Put Lead Tape on Your Putter

The placement of lead tape on your putter can significantly influence its performance.

Here are some key areas to consider:

Sole

Placing lead tape on the sole of the putter head can lower the center of gravity, promoting a smoother roll and better consistency in your stroke.

Back of the Putter Head

Adding weight to the back of the putter head can enhance stability and forgiveness. A heavier putter head often forces you to slow down your putting stroke, which can make you much more consistent. Extra weight can also reduce twisting on off-center hits.

Shaft

Applying lead tape to the shaft, closer to the grip, can counterbalance the putter, changing its overall balance and feel during the stroke. 

TellMeMoreGolf.com – Frequently Asked Questions 

Is It legal to add weight to a putter?

According to the rules set by the USGA and R&A, adding weight to a putter is generally allowed, as long as the added weight conforms to the rules governing club specifications. 

That’s pretty much always the case when only using adjustable weights, lead tape, or counterbalance grips. 

Where to put lead tape on putter?

For example, lead tape can be placed on the sole of the putter head to lower its center of gravity, on the back to enhance stability, or closer to the grip to counterbalance the club. You can always experiment with positions to find what suits you the best. 

When should I add weight to my putter?

If you’re struggling with consistency or feel like your putter is not performing optimally, adding weight might be worth considering. However, before making any modifications, we recommend getting a putter fitting or seeing a golf instructor who can give you tips based on your individual needs.

Can I put lead tape on my putter?

Applying lead tape is a straightforward process that can be done by most. Start by cleaning the area where you plan to apply the tape to ensure proper adhesion. Then, cut the tape into small strips and apply them strategically according to your desired weight distribution.

Start with a small amount of weight and gradually add more until you find the right balance.

How do putter weights work?

Putter weights influence the balance, stability, and feel of the putter during your stroke. Adding weight to specific areas can change the putter’s moment of inertia (MOI), which affects its resistance to twisting on off-center hits. 

A higher MOI can enhance forgiveness, while a lower MOI might provide better feedback and control for golfers who prefer a more delicate touch.

How do you change putter weights?

If your putter has adjustable weights, changing them is a relatively simple process. Most adjustable putters come with a tool that allows you to unscrew the weight ports. Once the ports are open, you can add or remove weights as needed. 

You should always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations when adjusting the weights to ensure optimal performance and avoid any damage to the putter.

Conclusion:

Adding weight to your putter can be a great way to improve your putting game. Whether you opt for putters with adjustable weights, choose to experiment with lead tape, or invest in counterbalance grips, you can experience great results. 

To add weight efficiently, you should consult your local golf pro or fitter, and you should consider your stroke style and personal preference regarding feel. With a methodical approach and some smart experimentation, you can find the perfect weight distribution that allows you to sink more putts and improve your scores.