Best Pistol Golf Grip

Choosing the right golf grip is one of the most important equipment decisions you can make. The grip is your only point of contact with the club, and a pistol golf grip offers a distinct shape that can enhance hand placement, consistency, and overall feel. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, understanding the nuances of pistol grips—from the popular Golf Pride pistol grip to the specialized Golf Pride pistol putter grip—can help you lower scores. This guide walks you through what to look for, how to choose, and how to install your new grips using a golf grip installation gun.

What Is a Pistol Golf Grip?

A pistol golf grip is shaped like the handle of a pistol: thicker in the upper hand area (where the left hand sits for right-handed players) and tapering down toward the clubhead. This non‑symmetrical design encourages a more natural wrist hinge and promotes a consistent hand position. Unlike traditional round grips, pistol grips have a flat side or a rib that aligns your hands in the same position every time. Many golfers find this shape reduces tension and improves control. The Golf Pride pistol grip line, including models like the Tour Velvet Pistol and the MCC Plus4 Pistol, are among the most trusted on the market.

Why Choose a Pistol Grip Over a Traditional Grip?

The main advantage of a pistol golf grip is its ergonomic shape. It fits the contour of your hands more naturally, especially if you have a strong grip or tend to get the clubface closed at impact. The pistol shape can also help prevent the club from twisting during the swing, leading to more consistent shots. For putters, a Golf Pride pistol putter grip can improve alignment and feel on the greens. Many players report better distance control and a smoother stroke after switching. Additionally, pistol grips often reduce grip pressure, which can prevent tension from creeping into your swing.

What to Consider Before Buying a Pistol Golf Grip

Before purchasing a pistol golf grip, evaluate the following factors:

• —Material: Rubber grips offer good feel and durability. Cord grips provide extra traction in wet conditions but can be harsh on hands. Hybrid grips combine both.
• —Size: Grips come in standard, midsize, and oversize. A grip that is too small can cause over‑active hands; too large can reduce feel. Most players should start with standard or midsize.
• —Weight: Heavier grips can affect swing weight. If you’re sensitive to club balance, check the grip weight. Some pistol grips are counterbalanced to improve stability.
• —Shape Profile: Not all pistol grips are identical. Some have a more pronounced ridge, while others are subtly tapered. Try to handle them before buying if possible.
• —Compatibility: Ensure the grip core size matches your shaft (usually 0.580″ or 0.600″). Most grips fit standard shafts, but check your equipment.
• —Installation Tools: A golf grip installation gun can make removing old grips and installing new ones much easier. It uses compressed air and a special nozzle to slide grips on without solvent. This tool is especially handy if you plan to change grips frequently.

Top Pistol Golf Grip Options

While we don’t endorse any single product as the absolute best, several pistol grips stand out based on popularity and performance. Golf Pride offers a range of pistol grips, including the Golf Pride Tour Velvet Pistol and the Golf Pride MCC Plus4 Pistol. The Tour Velvet is a classic all‑rubber grip with a soft feel, while the MCC Plus4 features a larger lower hand section for reduced taper. For putters, the Golf Pride Pro Only Pistol is a favorite among Tour players. Other reputable brands like SuperStroke and Lamkin also produce pistol‑shaped grips. When shopping, look for genuine products from authorized retailers. Many of these grips are available on Amazon, but always verify the seller’s reputation.

How to Install a Pistol Golf Grip

Installing a pistol grip is similar to any grip installation but requires careful alignment because of the non‑round shape. Here’s a simplified process:

1. Remove the old grip using a utility knife or a grip removal tool. If you have a golf grip installation gun, you can also blow off the old grip with compressed air.
2. Clean the shaft with grip solvent to remove residue.
3. Apply double‑sided grip tape to the shaft, ensuring it covers the entire area where the grip will sit. Some tapers may require a bit more tape at the butt end.
4. Pour grip solvent into the new grip and shake it to coat the inside. Alternatively, you can use the installation gun to spray solvent inside.
5. Slide the grip onto the shaft quickly, aligning the flat side or ridge with your desired hand position. For pistol grips, the thicker part should be at the top (butt end).
6. Adjust the grip within a few seconds while the solvent is still wet. Once set, allow the solvent to dry for at least an hour before use.

Using a golf grip installation gun can speed up the process and reduce mess. It works by delivering a fine mist of solvent and air, allowing the grip to glide on effortlessly. Many guns also include a removal nozzle for taking off old grips without damage.

FAQ About Pistol Golf Grips

What is the difference between a pistol grip and a standard round grip? A pistol grip has a non‑symmetrical shape that is thicker in the upper hand and tapers down, promoting a more consistent hand position. Standard round grips are uniform in diameter and allow more hand rotation. Pistol grips can help reduce grip pressure and improve wrist hinge.

Are Golf Pride pistol grips good for beginners? Yes. Golf Pride pistol grips are designed to be comfortable and forgiving. Beginners often benefit from the alignment cues the shape provides, which can help build a repeatable grip. The Tour Velvet Pistol is a good starting point for its balance of feel and durability.

Do I need special tools to install a pistol grip? While you can install any grip with basic tools (tape, solvent, and a hook blade), a golf grip installation gun is highly recommended for pistol grips. Because the shape must be oriented correctly, the gun allows quick adjustment before the solvent dries. It also makes removal much easier.