Scottie Scheffler examines claw grip, expert explains benefits

Scottie Scheffler tested a new grip during the first round of the Hero World Challenge. And the switch from his regular grip to a claw, or saw, grip surprised many, as Scheffler had greatly improved his putting technique since working with coach Phil Kenyon last year.

Since the pair joined forces, Scheffler led the Tour with a 1.68 putting average and increased his hitting percentage by .396 percent in one year, from -0.301 to 0.095. That translated to seven wins, including another Masters title, and his best season since joining the Tour in 2020.

So if Scheffler’s putting was winning him championships and seemed to be trending in the right direction, why did he make the change?

In a post-round interview, Scheffler explained that it’s really just an experiment.

“I’m always looking for small ways to improve,” said Scheffler, “something Phil told me last year when we started working together.” And for the last few months it’s been something we’ve been talking about and we realized that this is a good week for me to try things.”

He explained that he uses the claw grip especially for short putts.

“The kind that’s within 15 feet, I think that’s where I see the most benefits of it,” Scheffler said.

So what are some of the benefits Scheffler refers to?

GOLF Top 100 instructor, Joe Plecker explains that the claw grip can be beneficial for players who want to regain the feel of the green because it allows your fairway to hang loosely and swing like a pendulum. This helps you feel the weight of the club as it swings back and forth, which Plecker says is key to improving your feel on the green.

“I like that idea of ​​sticking to where they are [amateurs] they’re not going to control the face, they’re going to let the pressure go and try for a longer, more flowing stroke,” Plecker said.

The claw grip is also a good option for players who twist their track hand too much, or place it too far under the grip. Plecker explains that when players make this setup error they usually try to eliminate it by leaning the shaft at address or by over-rotating the clubface through impact. Which creates a vicious cycle, consistent strikes and if left uncorrected, can even lead to the yips.

By placing your palm over the grip, you take your trailing hand out of the equation entirely and can focus on creating that smooth pendulum motion.