Lead weights and lead tape are used by players who want to tweak the weight distribution of their racquets to influence different playing characteristics. Lead tape comes in 1/2 and 1/4 inch wide strips. Use strips no longer than six inches, layering strips on top of one another if you want to add more weight in the same spot. The most common positions for lead tape are around the circular part of the frame and in the handle. Positions in the frame are denoted by their similarity to positions on a clock. For example, the 12 o'clock position is at the top of the frame. Always place lead tape on the inside of the frame.
Step 1
Place lead tape at the 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock positions to raise the sweet spot to a higher point on the stringbed. Lead tape at 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock will add slightly to overall swing weight and give you a marginal increase in power, as well as stability.
Step 2
Place lead tape at the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock position to add stability and power. Stability helps keep the racket firm when you hit the ball slightly off-center or outside of the sweet spot. This may help reduce jarring and shock that leads to wrist and elbow fatigue.
Step 3
Place lead tape at the 6 o'clock position, or the throat of the racket to add weight without affecting balance. A heavier racquet is generally more powerful and stable, though you may notice a small decrease in maneuvering ability, especially at the net.
Step 4
Place lead tape at the top, or 12 o'clock position, to add to your racquet's swing weight. This position is generally only used on racquets that are head-light to begin with, or where weight is focused on the handle. Adding lead tape at the 12 o'clock position to a head heavy racquet is not recommended.
Step 5
Add lead tape or small fishing weights to the inside of the handle by removing the butt cap and placing them inside. For small fishing weights, first wrap the weights in cotton gauze, then stuff inside and check that they do not rattle around. Adding lead to the handle counter-balances racquets that are head heavy for players who want a more balanced, or head light racquet. Replace the butt, using a staple gun if necessary
Tips and Warnings
- When placing tape around the inside of the frame, place it on both sides of the string using smaller pieces of tape to balance out if necessary. If you only need to add a small strip, you can place it in the middle when your racquet does not have any string in it. Poke holes in the lead tape to fit over the grommets and allow string through.
- Keep lead tape out of reach of children and pets. Lead tape is poisonous if ingested.
Things You'll Need
- Lead tape
- Fishing weight
- Cotton gauze
- Staple gun
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