How to Grip Irons in Golf

Golfers have many choices when selecting their irons.

They may choose blades or cavity-back heads, with forged or cast iron construction. The shafts may be steel or graphite. But even if you have the best irons available, they won't provide the maximum benefit if you don't hold them properly. The manner in which you grip the club provides the foundation for your golf swing, so take a little time to be sure your grip is correct.

1. Place the club at an angle across the fingers of your left hand (for a right-handed player). According to PGA pro John Stahlschmidt, the club’s grip should run from the middle knuckle of your index finger to just below the spot where your pinkie meets your palm. Tiger Woods suggests running the club at a slightly shallower angle, from the base of the index finger to the pad just below the pinkie.

1. Place your right hand on the club, with the pinkie resting between the index and middle fingers of your left hand and your thumb pointing down the shaft. Woods says the club’s grip should run from the middle of the index finger to the base of the pinkie. Adjust your right hand so the V shape between your thumb and index finger points to your right shoulder.

1. Grip the club lightly to avoid tensing your muscles. Swing coach David Leadbetter advises golfers to “maintain a relaxed grip pressure throughout the swing” to achieve maximum club head speed.