The Claw Grip Putting Technique: A Comprehensive Guide

Have you ever watched a professional golfer on television and noticed their hands positioned in a rather unusual way on the putter grip? Chances are, you were witnessing the claw grip putting technique in action. While it might look unconventional, this grip has gained popularity among both pros and amateurs for its potential to improve putting accuracy and consistency. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of the claw grip, exploring its benefits, drawbacks, variations, and how to determine if it's the right fit for your game.

What is the Claw Grip?

The claw grip, also known as the pencil grip or the saw grip, is a non-traditional putting grip where the lead hand (usually the left hand for right-handed golfers) is placed in a conventional position at the top of the grip, while the trailing hand adopts a claw-like hold towards the bottom. In this claw hold, the fingers of the trailing hand barely touch the putter grip, or gently cradle the underside of the handle, minimizing its influence during the stroke. This altered grip aims to stabilize the putting stroke and reduce unwanted wrist movement, leading to a more consistent and controlled motion.

The Benefits of Using the Claw Grip

Why are golfers turning to the claw grip? Here are several compelling reasons:

• Reduced Wrist Breakdown: The primary advantage of the claw grip is its ability to minimize wrist movement during the putting stroke. By taking the wrist mostly out of the stroke, golfers are able to create a putting stroke that is more of an arm and shoulder movement.
• Improved Face Control: With less wrist action, it becomes easier to maintain a square putter face throughout the stroke. This translates to more accurate putts that start on the intended line.
• Greater Consistency: The claw grip promotes a more stable and repeatable putting motion, leading to more consistent results on the green. Once you groove the motion, you'll find that you repeat it much easier than a traditional grip.
• Yip Prevention: For golfers who struggle with the yips (involuntary muscle spasms during the putting stroke), the claw grip can be a game-changer. By reducing wrist involvement, it can help alleviate the anxiety and tension that trigger the yips.
• Enhanced Feel: The reduced hand contact can heighten your sense of feel for the putter head and the ball, allowing for better distance control.

Potential Drawbacks of the Claw Grip

While the claw grip offers several benefits, it's essential to be aware of its potential drawbacks:

• Loss of Distance Control: Some golfers initially experience a loss of distance control when switching to the claw grip. This is because the grip change alters the feel and power of the stroke.
• Reduced Feel on Long Putts: The limited hand contact can sometimes make it challenging to gauge the correct amount of force for longer putts.
• Uncomfortable Feel: The unconventional grip can feel awkward and uncomfortable at first, requiring a period of adjustment and practice.
• Not Suitable for Everyone: The claw grip is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some golfers may find that it doesn't suit their natural putting style or preferences.

Different Variations of the Claw Grip

The claw grip isn't a rigid technique; within the basic concept, there's still room for customization. Here are a few common variations:

• Standard Claw: The fingers of the trailing hand gently cradle the underside of the putter grip. This is the most common version of the claw grip .
• Fingertip Claw: Only the fingertips of the trailing hand make contact with the grip. This variation further minimizes wrist involvement.
• Palm-in Claw: The palm of the trailing hand faces inward, towards the golfer's body. This can provide extra stability and control.
• Modified Claw: Some golfers use a variation where the trailing hand is placed slightly higher on the grip than in the standard claw, providing a bit more feel.

How to Transition to the Claw Grip

Thinking of giving the claw grip a try? Here's a step-by-step guide to help you transition:

1. Start with the Lead Hand: Place your lead hand on the putter grip as you normally would.
2. Position the Trailing Hand: Position the trailing hand so that your thumb runs down the shaft, and your fingers (and/or palm) cradle the underside of the grip. Experiment with different positions until you find the one that feels most comfortable and stable.
3. Maintain Light Grip Pressure: Avoid gripping the putter too tightly. Focus on maintaining light, consistent pressure with both hands.
4. Focus on Shoulder Movement: Imagine your shoulders are creating a pendulum motion, which in turn moves your arms and hands.
5. Practice Regularly: Set aside time to practice with the claw grip on the practice green. Focus on developing a smooth, repeatable stroke.
6. Be Patient: It takes time to adjust to a new grip. Don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate results. Stick with it, and you may find that the claw grip significantly improves your putting performance.

Drills to Improve Your Claw Grip Putting

To accelerate your learning and refinement of the claw grip, incorporate these drills into your practice routine:

• One-Handed Drill: Practice putting with only your lead hand on the putter. This will help you develop a feel for the proper stroke and improve your ability to control the putter face, teaching you to rely on the lead hand more than the trail hand.
• Alignment Stick Drill: Place an alignment stick on the ground to guide your putting stroke. This will help you maintain a consistent stroke path.
• Distance Control Drill: Practice putting to different targets at varying distances. This will help you develop a better feel for distance control with the claw grip.
• Putting Gate Drill: Set up two tees slightly wider than your putter head. Focus on consistently rolling the ball through the gate to improve accuracy.

Is the Claw Grip Right for You?

How do you know if the claw grip is a good fit for your game? Consider the following factors:

• Your Current Putting Performance: Are you struggling with inconsistent putting, missed short putts, or the yips? If so, the claw grip may be worth a try.
• Your Putting Style: Do you have a tendency to break down your wrists during the putting stroke? The claw grip can help stabilize your wrists and promote a more consistent motion.
• Your Comfort Level: Does the claw grip feel natural and comfortable in your hands? If not, it may not be the right grip for you.

Ultimately, the best way to determine if the claw grip is right for you is to experiment with it on the practice green. Try it out for a few weeks and see if it improves your putting performance and consistency.

Famous Golfers Who Use the Claw Grip

The claw grip isn't just a fad; it's a legitimate putting technique used by several successful professional golfers. Some notable examples include:

• Phil Mickelson: One of the most recognizable golfers using the claw grip.
• Tommy Fleetwood: The Englishman has seen great success with the claw grip.
• Mark O'Meara: A former Masters champion who used the claw grip to fine tune his putting.

Seeing these professionals find success with the claw grip is a testament to its potential benefits.

Final Thoughts

The claw grip putting technique can be a valuable tool for golfers looking to improve their putting accuracy and consistency. While it may not be for everyone, it offers a unique way to stabilize the putting stroke, reduce wrist movement, and enhance feel. By understanding its benefits, drawbacks, and variations, you can make an informed decision about whether the claw grip is right for you. So, give it a try on the practice green, and you might just discover a newfound confidence in your putting game.