At one time, all rackets had hardwood frames and handles, and decreasing the size of a grip was done with woodworking tools. Contemporary rackets are made from graphite or aluminum, and the handle consists of a composite sleeve that's covered with synthetic or cushion grip. Reducing grip size requires fitting a smaller sleeve on the frame and wrapping a new grip. Those who are unfamiliar with racket construction should entrust the job to a qualified racket technician. Obtain the smaller sleeve based on your grip size and organize the new grip and tools in a work area.
Preparation
Step 1
Secure the head of the racket in a plastic bench vise with the racket handle pointing up.
Step 2
Grip the butt cap firmly with adjustable pliers. Twist the pliers each way as you pull upward to remove the butt cap. Discard the cap. Remove the racket from the vise.
Step 3
Peel off the wrap of finishing tape at the upper end of the grip by hand. Unwind the synthetic or cushion grip from the handle sleeve by hand. Discard the finishing tape and the old wrap.
Step 4
Reposition the racket handle vertically in the vise with the racket head flat. Identify the seam or small indentation that runs along the center of the handle sleeve. Score the seam or indentation several times with a utility knife. Continue to score and cut fully through the upper portion of the sleeve.
Step 5
Remove the racket from the vise. Pull the edges of the cut apart by hand. Continue to pull the sleeve away from the handle frame by hand. Discard the sleeve.
Step 6
Apply a small amount of acetone on a rag. Clean the residual adhesive off the handle frame. Remove as much of the debris as possible with a minimum amount of acetone. Do a thorough job for the best results.
Sleeve and Grip
Step 1
Apply a uniform coat of epoxy adhesive from a tube to the lower and middle section of the handle frame. Avoid getting adhesive on the upper section of the frame where it widens below the head of the racket.
Step 2
Slide the new sleeve onto the handle frame by hand. Push the sleeve fully onto the frame so the upper end fits tightly where the frame widens at the head of the racket.
Step 3
Apply a small amount of adhesive around the inside rim of the butt cap. Push the cap firmly onto the end of the sleeve by hand. Allow the adhesive application to cure for two hours.
Step 4
Unroll the new grip. Hold one end against the side of the butt cap with one hand. Take a tight wrap around the side of the butt cap and overlap the successive wraps 1/8 inch up the handle. Twist the handle of the racket as you hold the grip firmly to make tight wraps.
Step 5
Make the final wrap at the upper end of the sleeve. Cut the excess grip with scissors and hold the end in place at the top of the handle with one hand. Secure the grip with two tight wraps of finishing tape. Cut the excess tape with the scissors.
Tips and Warnings
- Some handles have an overwrap atop the grip. Remove the overwrap and check the size of the grip before removing the existing grip and sleeve.
Things You'll Need
- Plastic bench vise
- Adjustable pliers
- Utility knife
- Acetone
- Rags
- Epoxy adhesive in tube dispenser
- Grip sleeve
- Butt cap
- Synthetic or cushion grip
- Scissors
- Finishing tape
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