Cutting down iron shafts

[Jay-Bird]

This is a two-part question.

1. How much does a half-inch affect swingweight?
I have a set of irons that are 1/2" over standard length. I would like to cut them down to standard (or maybe a 1/4" under).
2. How hard is it to cut them down myself? What will I need (hacksaw? what blade is best? etc.)
thanks!

[Gummi Bear]

Before you cut them down, put a piece of tape on there to act as a reminder to choke up. Some folks prefer this anyhow (Anthony Kim is one that comes quickly to mind)

When you do cut them down, using a hacksaw is a tough way to go. A tubing cutter (with a wheel for cutting steel tubing) does a good job, so does a chop saw, or a die grinder with a cutoff wheel.

Be sure to buy new grips, or wait until you need new ones before cutting away, they'll pretty well get ruined in getting them off (I don't even try to save them, I just cut off grips)

[wachesawgolfer]

It depends on the weight of the steel but one half an inch is probably 3 swingweights. But the heads were made to play to standard length which is about D2 with 129 gram shafts. If you like the heftier feel of the longer shafts, regrip with Dual Durometer lites which weigh 40 grams instead of the the standard 49/50 weight grip and this will restore the feel/heft to the club.