Pros and cons of cutting down shafts

[MiniBlueDragon]

Hi folks. I was just reading a thread about shaft length and a frw questions popped into my head. I'm 5'7" and have a wrist-to-floor measurement which places me right in a 'standard' length shaft. Lie board testing also shows I have standard lie. What I find bizarre is that I naturally grip down all my irons and wedges by 3/4" to 1" from the very end of the grip. I don't know if I do it out of habit, out of necessity or because I've subconsciously noticed an improvement doing it. To be honest it could even be better for me to grip up by the white markings on the grip (1/2" down?) but I've had no reason to change the grip so far. Anyway what are the pros and cons to cutting down shafts? If someone naturally grips down anyway will the flex be altered much? If I'm happy with the clubs as they are what gains are there from altering them etc?

[5ironkid]

a pro would be you would not have to choke down during your swing. a con with this would be if your swing changes you would not be able to move your grip up. you also would not  have as much versitility with your shots. another con would be the shafts would be slightly stiffer than rated and might effect the kick point,

[WUTiger]

The GolfWorks cautions that "wrist to floor" measures are only good as a rough start for determining shaft length. Impact decals on the face can help you in this area. For example, if you have a decent swing motion but constantly hit shots toward the toe, you may need a slightly longer shaft, or a more upright lie. Face decals plus varied shaft lengths from a fitting cart can help you determine such things.

A good fitter can look at the face decals, and sole tape/impact board, and help you determine shaft length.

As far as flex, choking down or trimming off a half inch technically stiffens the shaft a little. But, most people won't notice it. Bigger impact would be on swing weight, which drops about 3 points for every half inch you trim off the shaft. IF you trim a shaft, you may be able to reestablish the specs swingweight by going with a lighter grip, or adding lead tape to the head. Again, a good fitter could calculate this for you.