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Handle weighting

When you need to add weight to the handle, some racquets make it much easier, via a trap door that can be removed separately from the butt cap. All it takes is a small screwdriver to pry it out.

Once you get the trap door off, if you see a piece of graphite dividing the inside of the handle in half, with two hollow chambers on either side, you’re in business. You’ll also see the ends of the butt cap staples, but they’re easy to work around.

Cut your lead tape into sections about 6 inches long, and fold each section into a “V” shape, sticky side in, but not closed. Slide the lead tape down around the divider, so that if your racquet is standing handle up, the lead tape will be hanging down over the divider. Use a screwdriver to press the lead tape against the divider wall. I’ve added a little over an ounce on a racquet this way before, stacking layers of lead tape, and it has never come loose. If you want to make sure it stays put, dab some rubber cement around the edges where the tape meets the divider. Then, reattach the trap door.

It’s also easy to undo. Remove the trap door, and pry the tape loose with a small screwdriver.

Wilson Pro Staff 6 Racquet Bag to:

Steve Huff, Mechanicsville, VA

From the July 2007 issue
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