GOLF PUTTER GRIP

A golf grip defines a body having a length extending between an upper cap end and a lower mouth end, the body including a bore for receiving the shaft of the golf club. The body includes a tapered portion that extends along at least about 75 percent of the length of the body between an upper location and a lower location, the bore extending longitudinally through the tapered portion. The tapered portion includes a front side, a back side, a left side, and a right side, the tapered portion defining a width between the left and right sides and a depth between the front and back sides. The tapered portion has a reverse taper between the left and right sides that expands the width of the tapered portion as the tapered portion extends from the upper location to the lower location. The tapered portion has a second reverse taper defined between the front and back sides that expands the depth of the tapered portion as the tapered portion extends from the upper location to the lower location.

BACKGROUND

Golf comprises of two main physical swings/motions, namely, the full swing used when striking the ball from tee to green, and the putting stroke used to roll the ball to the hole on a prepared surface. To complement these activities, a player uses specific clubs with unique specifications designed to match the needs of a specific shot. Relative to putting, the club comprises of a head that can take the form of a blade, mallet, or a variety of others shapes that complement a golfer's unique swing traits. The putter head is connected to a shaft onto which a putter grip is attached on the opposing end.

The rules of golf allow for putter grips to comprise of complex shapes that are designed to aid a golfer's control and fidelity on and around the green. This is different from a full swing grip that must remain round in form. Typically, a putter grip has taken the form of a front flat (paddle), and a rounded back profile. The geometry typically tapers from the endcap down toward the mouth of the grip. However, there are cases where the putter uses a non-tapered (straight) profile where the diameter remains essentially constant from the endcap to the mouth portion of the grip. In addition to the fore-mentioned profiles, putter grips can sometimes include a feature known as a pistol. A pistol can be best described as a localized protrusion in the upper section of the grip that is intended to aid the golfer's upper hand orientation on the grip, aligning it to the face of the putter head.

Further improvements in putter grip geometry are desired.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates generally to various embodiments of golf putter grips that comprise unique geometric profiles that have been found to promote consistent hand placement, lower hand pressure, and a more consistent and controlled release of the putter face through impact. The grips discussed herein generally include a reverse taper, which can be described as a geometry that increases in overall grip size (e.g., cross-sectional area, circumference, outer cross-sectional profile size, etc.) from a cap end (upper portion) of the grip to a mouth (lower portion) of the grip.

According to an example aspect of the disclosure, a golf grip adapted to be mounted on the shaft of a golf club comprises a grip body having a length that extends between an upper cap end and a lower mouth end, the grip body including a bore that extends longitudinally through the grip body between the upper cap end and the lower mouth end, the bore being configured to receive the shaft of the golf club, and the grip body including a front side, a back side, a left side, and a right side, the grip body defining a width between the left and right sides and a depth between the front and back sides, the grip body having a first reverse taper defined between the left and right sides that expands the width of the grip body as the grip body extends toward the lower mouth end of the grip body, the grip body also having a second reverse taper defined between the front and back sides that expands the depth of the grip body as the grip body extends toward the lower mouth end of the grip body, the first and second reverse tapers having different taper angles and extending along at least 75 percent of the length of the grip body to provide a gradual grip size reverse transition along at least 75 percent of the length of the grip body.

According to another aspect, the disclosure is directed to a golf grip adapted to be mounted on the shaft of a golf club, the golf grip comprising a grip body having a length that extends between an upper cap end and a lower mouth end, the grip body including a bore that extends longitudinally through the grip body between the upper cap end and the lower mouth end, the bore being configured to receive the shaft of the golf club, the bore defining a longitudinal bore axis centered with respect to the bore, the grip body including a tapered portion that extends along at least about 75 percent of the length of the grip body longitudinally between an upper location and a lower location of the grip body, the upper location being closer to the upper cap end than the lower mouth end and the lower location being closer to the lower mouth end than the upper cap end, the bore extending longitudinally through the tapered portion, the tapered portion including a front side, a back side, a left side, and a right side, the tapered portion defining a width between the left and right sides and a depth between the front and back sides, the tapered portion having a reverse taper defined between the left and right sides that expands the width of the tapered portion as the tapered portion extends from the upper location to the lower location, the front side including a front surface that extends from the upper location to the lower location, the front surface having a front surface width that extends between a left transition location where the front side transitions to the left side and a right transition location where the front side transitions to the right side, the tapered portion having a first cross-sectional dimension that extends radially from the bore axis to a centerline of the front surface that is centered between the left and right transition locations, and the tapered portion having a second cross-sectional dimension that extends from the bore axis to the left transition location and a third cross-sectional dimension that extends from the bore axis to the right transition location, the first, second, and third cross-sectional dimensions being measured in an orientation perpendicular to the bore axis, the second and third cross-sectional dimensions being larger than the first cross-sectional dimension.

According to another aspect, the disclosure is directed to a golf grip adapted to be mounted on the shaft of a golf club, the golf grip comprising a grip body having a length that extends between an upper cap end and a lower mouth end, the grip body including a bore that extends longitudinally through the grip body between the upper cap end and the lower mouth end, the bore being configured to receive the shaft of the golf club, the bore defining a longitudinal bore axis centered with respect to the bore, the grip body including a tapered portion that extends along at least about 75 percent of the length of the grip body longitudinally between an upper location and a lower location of the grip body, the upper location being closer to the upper cap end than the lower mouth end and the lower location being closer to the lower mouth end than the upper cap end, the bore extending longitudinally through the tapered portion, and the tapered portion including a front side, a back side, a left side, and a right side, the tapered portion defining a width between the left and right sides and a depth between the front and back sides, the tapered portion having a reverse taper defined between the left and right sides that expands the width of the tapered portion as the tapered portion extends from the upper location to the lower location, wherein the tapered portion has a second reverse taper defined between the front and back sides that expands the depth of the tapered portion as the tapered portion extends from the upper location to the lower location.

According to yet another aspect, the disclosure is directed to a golf grip adapted to be mounted on the shaft of a golf club, the golf grip comprising a grip body having a length that extends between an upper cap end and a lower mouth end, the grip body including a bore that extends longitudinally through the grip body between the upper cap end and the lower mouth end, the bore being configured to receive the shaft of the golf club, the bore defining a longitudinal bore axis centered with respect to the bore, the grip body including a tapered portion that extends along at least about 75 percent of the length of the grip body longitudinally between an upper location and a lower location of the grip body, the upper location being closer to the upper cap end than the lower mouth end and the lower location being closer to the lower mouth end than the upper cap end, the bore extending longitudinally through the tapered portion, the tapered portion including a front side, a back side, a left side, and a right side, the tapered portion defining a width between the left and right sides and a depth between the front and back sides, the tapered portion having a reverse taper defined between the left and right sides that expands the width of the tapered portion as the tapered portion extends from the upper location to the lower location, and the grip body further including a protrusion generally defined by the back side adjacent the upper location, the protrusion having at least a portion extending along the depth in a direction from the front side toward the back side and having at least a portion extending along a length of the grip body in a direction from the upper location toward the lower location, the portion extending along the length of the grip body being longer than the portion extending along the depth defined by the grip body.

According to yet another aspect, the disclosure is directed to a golf grip adapted to be mounted on the shaft of a golf club, the golf grip comprising a grip body having a length that extends between an upper cap end and a lower mouth end, the grip body including a bore that extends longitudinally through the grip body between the upper cap end and the lower mouth end, the bore being configured to receive the shaft of the golf club, the bore defining a longitudinal bore axis centered with respect to the bore, the grip body defining an upper location and a lower location, the upper location being closer to the upper cap end than the lower mouth end and the lower location being closer to the lower mouth end than the upper cap end, the grip body including a front side, a back side, a left side, and a right side, the grip body defining a width between the left and right sides and a depth between the front and back sides, and the grip body further including a protrusion generally defined by the back side adjacent the upper location, the protrusion having at least a portion extending along the depth in a direction from the front side toward the back side and having at least a portion extending along a length of the grip body in a direction from the upper location toward the lower location, the portion extending along the length of the grip body being longer than the portion extending along the depth defined by the grip body, wherein an overall length of the protrusion as measured from the upper cap end to a portion of the grip body that defines a generally constant cross-sectional dimension taken in an orientation perpendicular to the bore axis adjacent the lower location is at least about 40 percent of the overall length of the grip body.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure is directed to various embodiments of golf putter grips that comprise unique geometric profiles that have been found to promote consistent hand placement, lower hand pressure, and a more consistent and controlled release of the putter face through impact.

Illustrated generally herein are three unique grip geometries. All of the grips discussed herein share one common feature, referred to herein as a reverse taper, which will be described in further detail below.

According to the present disclosure, a reverse taper can be described as a geometry that increases in overall circumference from a cap end (upper portion) of the grip to a mouth end (lower portion) of the grip. A reverse taper, as will be described herein in further detail, can be symmetrical about the shaft axis or can be provided in just one plane. It should be noted that the term “taper” generally implies a gradual change in the size of a given dimension, rather than an abrupt change. The purpose of the reverse taper provided by the grips of the present disclosure is to maintain a specific hand articulation and grip pressure throughout the putting stroke, aiding timing, swing path, and face angle at impact, which are all primary elements that lead to consistent putting.

According to the present disclosure, as noted above, three unique grip geometries are discussed. A first embodiment of a putter grip that comprises a reverse taper geometry and that will be described in further detail herein may be referred to as the round grip100. A second embodiment of a putter grip that comprises a reverse taper geometry and that will be described in further detail herein may be referred to as the flat grip1100. The flat grip1100is similar in geometry to the round grip100except for the provision of flatter right and left sides of the grip.

And, a third embodiment of a putter grip that comprises a reverse taper geometry and that will be described in further detail herein may be referred to as the pistol grip2100.

As will be discussed, each design may feature a front flat (or paddle) and also incorporates a reverse taper geometry that tapers (e.g., varies, transitions) in an X axis orientation as the grip extends in a lengthwise orientation of the grip (e.g., along a central longitudinal axis of the grip). The X axis orientation is defined as the dimension extending across a width of the grip from a right side to a left side of the grip, as illustrated inFIGS.1-3. As will be also discussed, the round and the flat designs may also incorporate a reverse taper geometry that tapers in a Y axis orientation as the grip extends in the lengthwise orientation of the grip. The Y axis orientation is defined as the dimension extending across a depth of the grip from a front side (paddle side) to a back side of the grip, as also illustrated inFIGS.1-3. It should be noted that in the illustrated embodiments, the pistol grip, specifically, the portion of the grip that does not include the pistol feature, does not incorporate a reverse taper geometry in the Y axis orientation. However, it is contemplated that grips having a pistol feature can also include a reverse taper geometry in the Y axis orientation.

Now referring toFIGS.1and4-7, one embodiment of the round grip100is illustrated. As noted above, in the depicted example, the round grip100features a front paddle132and is configured to incorporate a reverse taper geometry in both the X axis and the Y axis orientations.

Still referring toFIGS.1and4-7, the round grip100, as noted above, is designed as a golf putter grip adapted to be mounted on the shaft of a golf club, specifically the putter.

The grip100comprises a grip body104having a length L that extends between an upper cap end108and a lower mouth end110. The grip body104includes a bore112that extends longitudinally through the grip body104between the upper cap end108and the lower mouth end110. The bore112is configured to receive the shaft of the golf club. The bore112defines a longitudinal bore axis A centered with respect to the bore112.

As discussed above, the round grip100incorporates a reverse taper geometry in at least the X axis orientation. In the depicted embodiment, as shown inFIGS.1and4-7, the grip body104includes a tapered portion106that extends along at least 75 percent of the length of the grip body104longitudinally between an upper location118and a lower location120of the grip body104, wherein the upper location118is defined as being closer to the upper cap end108than the lower mouth end110and the lower location120is defined as being closer to the lower mouth end110than the upper cap end108. The bore112of the grip body104extends longitudinally through the tapered portion106. In other embodiments, the tapered portion106may be provided along at least between 50 to 90 percent of the length of the grip100. In yet other embodiments, the tapered portion106may be provided along at least between 60 to 80 percent of the length of the grip100.

It should be noted that in the depicted embodiments, the upper location118of the grip body104is generally adjacent the cap end108of the grip100. The lower location120of the grip body104, as shown, is generally in the vicinity of the mouth end110of the grip100. However, as shown, a chamfered portion122of the grip body104is provided directly at the mouth end110, to provide a transition from the enlarged lower end of the tapered portion106to the golf club shaft, and, it will be understood that the reverse taper geometry referred to herein does not apply to this chamfered area122of the grip100.

As shown inFIGS.1and4-7for the round grip100, the tapered portion106of the grip body104that extends from the upper location118to the lower location120, as defined, includes a front side124, a back side126, a left side128, and a right side130. The tapered portion106defines a width W between the left and right sides128,130and a depth D between the front and back sides124,126. As noted above, the tapered portion106has a reverse taper defined between the left and right sides128,130that expands the width W of the tapered portion106as the tapered portion106extends from the upper location118to the lower location120. As noted above, a reverse taper is defined as a geometry that increases in overall grip size (e.g., cross-sectional area, circumference, outer cross-sectional profile size, etc.) from the upper location118of the grip body104to the lower location120of the grip body104. It should be noted that the reverse taper may be provided along one or more dimensions of the grip body104that affect the overall grip size and need not be provided for all sides of the grip100that affect the overall grip size.

According to one example embodiment, the taper provided in the X axis orientation is configured such that a width WL at the end of the lower location120is at least 1.1 times or at least 1.2 times as large as a width WU at the end of the upper location118. In one example, the width WL at the end of the lower location120is in the range of 1.1-1.4 times as large as a width WU at the end of the upper location118. In the depicted example, the reverse taper provided in the X axis orientation is provided by configuring the grip body such that reverse taper angles are provided at both the left and right sides of the grip body. In one example, a reverse taper angle A of at least 0.5 degrees, or at least 0.6 degrees or at least 0.7 degrees is provided at each of the left and right sides. Please seeFIG.4.

As also noted above, the golf grips of the present disclosure each feature a front flat132(or paddle) defined by a front surface134of the front side124of the grip body104. The front flat or paddle132is designed to aid gripping pressure, thumb placement, feel, and consistency of the putting stroke. The front flat132is provided with a width WF with a reverse taper geometry similar to the overall shape of the width W of the grip body104in the X axis orientation. As noted above, the reverse taper geometry that affects the overall outer cross-sectional profile size of the grip100can be provided at various portions of the grip100. The reverse taper geometry that is provided in the X axis orientation for the overall width W of the grip might be slightly different in taper rate for the width WF of the front paddle132of the grip100, as will be described below.

Still referring toFIGS.1and4-7, the front flat132is defined by the front surface134on the front side124of the grip body104. The grip body104defines the front side124including the front surface134that extends from the upper location118to the lower location120. The front surface134has the front surface width WF that extends between a left transition location136where the front side124transitions to the left side128and a right transition location138where the front side124transitions to the right side130. As shown inFIGS.6and7, the tapered portion106of the grip body104has a first cross-sectional dimension D1that extends radially from the bore axis A to a centerline C of the front surface134that is centered between the left and right transition locations136,138. In a preferred example, the first cross-sectional dimension D1is constant along the length of the tapered portion106such that the front side of the grip is not provided with a taper angle in the depth orientation (e.g., in the Y axis orientation) along the length of the grip. In other examples, the first cross-sectional dimension D1can vary along the length of the tapered portion106such that the front side of the grip is provided with a taper angle (e.g., a reverse taper angle) in the depth orientation. To the extent the front side of the grip is provided with a taper in the depth orientation as the front side extends along the length of the grip, the taper angle would preferably be less than a corresponding reverse taper in the depth orientation provided at the back side of the grip as the back side extends along the length of the grip. In use, the front side faces away from the golfer and the rear side faces toward the golfer.

The front flat or paddle132is defined such that the tapered portion106has a second cross-sectional dimension D2that extends from the bore axis A to the left transition location136and a third cross-sectional dimension D3that extends from the bore axis A to the right transition location138, the first, second and third cross-sectional dimensions D1, D2, D3being measured in an orientation perpendicular to the bore axis A. Because the paddle132is flat in cross-sectional profile, or at least flatter than the cross-sectional profiles of the left and right sides of the grip which curve about the bore axis, the second and third cross-sectional dimensions D2, D3are larger than the first cross-sectional dimension D1.

As also noted above, the round grip100shown inFIGS.1and4-7also incorporates a reverse taper geometry in the Y-axis orientation (i.e., in the depth orientation). As noted above, the tapered portion106of the grip body104defines a depth D between the front and back sides124,126. In the depicted embodiment, the grip body104has a reverse taper defined between the front and back sides124,126that expands the depth D of the tapered portion106as the tapered portion106extends from the upper location118to the lower location120. According to one example embodiment, the taper provided in the Y axis orientation as the grip extends in a lengthwise orientation is configured such that such that a depth DL at the end of the lower location120is at least 1.04 times or at least 1.06 times or at least 1.08 times as large as a depth DU at the end of the upper location118. In one example, the depth DL at the end of the lower location120is in the range of 1.02-1.10 times as large as a depth DU at the end of the upper location118. In the depicted example, the reverse taper provided in the Y axis orientation is provided by configuring the grip body such that a reverse taper angle is provided only at the back side of the grip body and not the front side. In one example, a reverse taper angle B of at least 0.2 degrees, or at least 0.3 degrees or at least 0.4 degrees is provided at the back side. Please seeFIG.5. In a preferred example, the taper angles A corresponding to the sides of the grip are larger than the taper angle B corresponding to the reverse taper angle provided in the Y axis orientation.

The taper results in an increase in overall depth D from the depth DU at the upper location118that is at the upper end cap108in the depicted embodiment to the maximum depth DL defined at the lower location120that is adjacent the lower mouth end110. As shown inFIG.4, the maximum depth DL at the lower location120is at a position that is further up from the lower mouth end110of the grip body104in the depicted embodiment. Again, as noted above, the term “taper” generally implies a gradual change in the size of a given dimension, rather than an abrupt change.

According to certain aspects, in the depicted example embodiment ofFIGS.1and4-7, the reverse taper in the Y axis orientation is only defined by the back side126of the grip body104. In such an embodiment, the front side124of the grip body104remains generally parallel to the bore axis A such that the first cross-sectional dimension D1stays generally constant from the upper location118to the lower location120. Please seeFIGS.6and7.

According to certain embodiments, the round grip100ofFIGS.1and4-7defines an overall taper rate of 0.022-0.028 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. In certain embodiments, the round grip100ofFIGS.1and4-7defines about 2.2-2.8 percent change in width per unit length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

According to a preferred embodiment, the round grip100ofFIGS.1and4-7defines an overall taper rate of 0.026 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

And, according to a preferred embodiment, the round grip100defines a taper rate for the front flat132that is about 0.028 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. And, such a preferred embodiment may define an overall taper rate of 0.008 mm change in depth in the Y axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

It should be noted that certain taper rates, angles, and percentages specified in the present disclosure may be for specific preferred example embodiments that are designed to be commercial embodiments of the grips, and are not intended to be limiting in any nature. Other taper rates, angles, and percentages that are within the broader ranges specified herein are certainly contemplated for all of the different versions of the grips.

Each of the noted grips (round, flat, and pistol) may be provided in a plurality of different sizes to accommodate different user preferences.

FIGS.8-11illustrate another example of a round grip200having a generally larger size than the grip100ofFIGS.4-7. It should be noted that the round grip200ofFIGS.8-11may include all of the features relating to the reverse taper geometry that has been discussed above with respect to the first embodiment of the round grip100. It should also be noted that the taper percentage in the X axis orientation and in the Y axis orientation may vary slightly for the second embodiment of the round grip200.

According to certain embodiments, the round grip200ofFIGS.8-11may define an overall taper rate of 0.026-0.030 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. In certain embodiments, the round grip200ofFIGS.8-11defines about 2.6-3.0 percent change in width per unit length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

According to a preferred embodiment, the round grip200ofFIGS.8-11defines an overall taper rate of 0.028 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

And, according to a preferred embodiment, the round grip200defines a taper rate for the front flat232that is about 0.028 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. And, such a preferred embodiment may define an overall taper rate of 0.009 mm change in depth in the Y axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

A third example of a round grip300having even a larger size as compared to the grips100,200ofFIGS.4-7and8-11is illustrated inFIGS.12-15. It should be noted that the round grip300ofFIGS.12-15may include all of the features relating to the reverse taper geometry that has been discussed above with respect to the first and second embodiments of the round grip100,200. It should also be noted that the taper percentage in the X axis orientation and in the Y axis orientation may vary slightly for the third embodiment of the round grip300.

According to certain embodiments, the round grip300ofFIGS.12-15may define an overall taper rate of 0.029-0.033 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. In certain embodiments, the round grip300ofFIGS.12-15defines about 2.9-3.3 percent change in width per unit length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

According to a preferred embodiment, the round grip300ofFIGS.12-15defines an overall taper rate of 0.031 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

And, according to a preferred embodiment, the round grip300defines a taper rate for the front flat332that is about 0.036 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. And, such a preferred embodiment may define an overall taper rate of 0.010 mm change in depth in the Y axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

Now referring toFIGS.2and16-19, an example of what may be referred to as the flat grip1100is illustrated. The flat grip1100generally includes all of the features relating to the reverse taper geometry that has been discussed above with respect to the different embodiments of the round grip100/200/300except for slightly flattened right and left sides1130,1128as compared to the embodiments of the round grip100/200/300.FIGS.2and16-19illustrate the overall shape of the flat grip1100.

As noted above, the flat grip1100also features a front flat paddle1132and also incorporates a reverse taper geometry in both the X axis orientation and in the Y axis orientation.

Similar to the round grip100/200/300, the flat grip1100ofFIGS.2and16-19defines a grip body1104that includes a tapered portion1106that extends along at least 75 percent of the length L of the grip body1104longitudinally between the upper location1118and the lower location1120of the grip body1104. In other embodiments, the tapered portion1106may be provided along at least between 50 to 90 percent of the length L of the grip1100. In yet other embodiments, the tapered portion may be provided along at least between 60 to 80 percent of the length L of the grip1100.

And, similar to the round grip100/200/300, the tapered portion1106of the grip body1104of the flat grip1100provided in the X axis orientation is configured such that a width WL at the end of the lower location1120is at least 1.1 times or at least 1.2 times as large as a width WU at the end of the upper location1118. In one example, the width WL at the end of the lower location1120is in the range of 1.1-1.4 times as large as a width WU at the end of the upper location1118. In the depicted example, the reverse taper provided in the X axis orientation is provided by configuring the grip body such that reverse taper angles are provided at both the left and right sides of the grip body. In one example, a reverse taper angle A of at least 0.5 degrees, or at least 0.6 degrees or at least 0.7 degrees is provided at each of the left and right sides.

Regarding the Y axis orientation, the taper provided in the Y axis orientation for the flat grip1100is similar to that for the round grip100/200/300.

According to one example embodiment, the taper provided in the Y axis orientation as the grip extends in a lengthwise orientation is configured such that such that a depth DL at the end of the lower location1120is at least 1.04 times or at least 1.06 times or at least 1.08 times as large as a depth DU at the end of the upper location1118. In one example, the depth DL at the end of the lower location1120is in the range of 1.02-1.10 times as large as a depth DU at the end of the upper location1118. In the depicted example, the reverse taper provided in the Y axis orientation is provided by configuring the grip body such that a reverse taper angle is provided only at the back side of the grip body and not the front side. In one example, a reverse taper angle B of at least 0.2 degrees, or at least 0.3 degrees or at least 0.4 degrees is provided at the back side. In a preferred example, the taper angles A corresponding to the sides of the grip are larger than the taper angle B corresponding to the reverse taper angle provided in the Y axis orientation.

As shown for the flat grip1100inFIGS.2and16-19, according to certain aspects, the reverse taper along the Y axis may only be defined by the back side1126of the grip body1104, as in the depicted examples of the round grip100/200/300. In such an embodiment, again, the front side1124of the grip body1104remains generally parallel to the bore axis A such that the first cross-sectional dimension D1stays generally constant from the upper location1118to the lower location1120.

According to certain embodiments, the flat grip1100ofFIGS.2and16-19may define an overall taper rate of 0.029-0.033 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. In certain embodiments, the flat grip1100ofFIGS.2and16-19defines about 2.9-3.3 percent change in width per unit length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

According to a preferred embodiment, the flat grip1100ofFIGS.2and16-19defines an overall taper rate of 0.031 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

And, according to a preferred embodiment, the flat grip1100defines a taper rate for the front flat1132that is about 0.030 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. And, such a preferred embodiment may define an overall taper rate of 0.006 mm change in depth in the Y axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

The flat grip, similar to the round grip, may be provided in a plurality of different sizes to accommodate different user preferences.

FIGS.20-23illustrate another example of a flat grip1200having a generally larger size than the grip1100ofFIGS.16-19. It should be noted that the flat grip1200ofFIGS.20-23may include all of the features relating to the reverse taper geometry that has been discussed above with respect to the first embodiment of the flat grip1100. It should also be noted that the taper percentage in the X axis orientation and in the Y axis orientation may vary slightly for the second embodiment of the flat grip1200.

According to certain embodiments, the flat grip1200ofFIGS.20-23may define an overall taper rate of 0.033-0.037 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. In certain embodiments, the flat grip1200ofFIGS.20-23defines about 3.3-3.7 percent change in width per unit length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

According to a preferred embodiment, the flat grip1200ofFIGS.20-23defines an overall taper rate of 0.035 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

And, according to a preferred embodiment, the flat grip1200defines a taper rate for the front flat1232that is about 0.033 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. And, such a preferred embodiment may define an overall taper rate of 0.007 mm change in depth in the Y axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

A third example of a flat grip1300having even a larger size as compared to the grips1100,1200ofFIGS.16-19and20-23is illustrated inFIGS.24-27. It should be noted that the flat grip1300ofFIGS.24-27may include all of the features relating to the reverse taper geometry that has been discussed above with respect to the first and second embodiments of the flat grip1100,1200. It should also be noted that the taper percentage in the X axis orientation and in the Y axis orientation may vary slightly for the third embodiment of the flat grip1300.

According to certain embodiments, the flat grip1300ofFIGS.24-27may define an overall taper rate of 0.036-0.040 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. In certain embodiments, the flat grip1300ofFIGS.24-27defines about 3.6-4.0 percent change in width per unit length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

According to a preferred embodiment, the flat grip1300ofFIGS.8-11defines an overall taper rate of 0.038 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

And, according to a preferred embodiment, the flat grip1300defines a taper rate for the front flat1332that is about 0.036 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. And, such a preferred embodiment may define an overall taper rate of 0.008 mm change in depth in the Y axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

Now referring toFIGS.3and28-32, the grip of the present disclosure referred to as the pistol grip2100is illustrated. As noted above, the pistol grip2100features a front flat or paddle2132similar to the round and flat grips. However, in the depicted embodiment, the pistol grip2100is shown as being configured to incorporate a reverse taper geometry only in the X axis orientation.

The reverse taper provided in the X axis orientation for the pistol grip2100is designed to promote light consistent hand pressure while accommodating various gripping styles. The pistol feature2140of the pistol grip2100, which is generally defined as a localized protrusion in the upper section of the grip2100, incorporates a design that is different to current pistol designs commonly found in the market today. The unique pistol feature2140defines a length LP that extends to about 50 percent of the overall length L of the grip2100from the cap end2108to the mouth end2110. The pistol feature2140also incorporates an angle of attack of 8 degrees, as measured from the bore axis A. The purpose of these noted pistol features is to secure the golfer's upper hand and ensure consistent hand placement, as shown for example inFIGS.43-44.FIG.43illustrates placement of a user's palm relative to the pistol feature2140of the grip2100, andFIG.44illustrates the pistol grip2100ofFIG.43with the user's hand fully engaged on the pistol feature2140of the grip2100.

In a specific preferred embodiment that may be considered a commercial embodiment of the pistol grip2100, the pistol feature2140has a length LP that is 50.3 percent of the overall length L of the grip2100from the cap end2108to the mouth end2110. In other embodiments, the pistol feature2140may define a length LP that is at least about 30 percent of the overall length L of the grip2100from the cap end2108to the mouth end2110. In other embodiments, the pistol feature2140may define a length LP that is at least about 40 percent of the overall length L of the grip2100from the cap end2108to the mouth end2110. In other embodiments, the pistol feature2140may define a length LP that is at least about 50 percent of the overall length L of the grip2100from the cap end2108to the mouth end2110. In other embodiments, the pistol feature2140may define a length LP that is between about 30 to 60 percent of the overall length L of the grip2100from the cap end2108to the mouth end2110. In yet other embodiments, the pistol feature2140may define a length LP that is between about 40 to 55 percent of the overall length L of the grip2100from the cap end2108to the mouth end2110.

Further, as shown inFIG.30(and also inFIGS.35and40), in the depicted pistol grip2100, the pistol feature2140includes a flat side wall2142that is positioned generally parallel to the shaft axis and the putter face once the grip2100is installed. The flat side wall feature2142engages with the palm of the golfer's upper hand to ensure that the hand orientation is square to the face of the putter, aiding consistency and providing a square putter face at impact. The general shape of the flat side wall feature2142is illustrated inFIG.30(and also inFIGS.35and40).

The reverse taper provided along the X axis for the pistol grip2100defines a unique taper rate that is designed to aid gripping pressure, thumb placement, feel, and consistency of stroke. As noted above, the pistol feature2140is enlarged compared to existing designs in the market, extending to about 50 percent of the overall grip length L in a preferred embodiment. And, furthermore, the pistol grip2100defines the significant flat sidewall2142on both the right side and the left side of the pistol feature2140that aids upper hand placement and orientation specific to the putter face, as illustrated inFIG.30. According to one embodiment (a first size of the pistol grip2100), the surface area of the flat sidewall2142of the pistol feature2140on each of the right and left sides of the grip2100is approximately 17.85 cm2for a preferred embodiment.FIGS.3and28-32illustrate the overall shape of the pistol grip2100with the pistol feature2140.

Still referring toFIGS.3and28-32, as discussed, the pistol grip2100may include all of the features relating to the reverse taper geometry in the X axis orientation that have been discussed above with respect to the different embodiments of the round and flat grips.

Similar to the round and flat grips, the pistol grip2100ofFIGS.3and28-32defines a grip body2104that includes a tapered portion2106that extends along at least 75 percent of the length L of the grip body2104longitudinally between the upper location2118and the lower location2120of the grip body2104. In other embodiments, the tapered portion2106may be provided along at least between 50 to 90 percent of the length L of the grip2100. In yet other embodiments, the tapered portion2106may be provided along at least between 60 to 80 percent of the length L of the grip2100.

And, similar to the round and flat grips, the tapered portion2106of the grip body2104of the pistol grip2100provided in the X axis orientation is configured such that a width WL at the end of the lower location2120is at least 1.1 times or at least 1.2 times as large as a width WU at the end of the upper location2118. In one example, the width WL at the end of the lower location2120is in the range of 1.1-1.4 times as large as a width WU at the end of the upper location2118. In the depicted example, the reverse taper provided in the X axis orientation is provided by configuring the grip body such that reverse taper angles are provided at both the left and right sides of the grip body. In one example, a reverse taper angle A of at least 0.5 degrees, or at least 0.6 degrees or at least 0.7 degrees is provided at each of the left and right sides.

According to certain embodiments, the pistol grip2100ofFIGS.3and28-32may define an overall taper rate of 0.029-0.033 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. In certain embodiments, the pistol grip2100ofFIGS.3and28-32defines about 2.9-3.3 percent change in width per unit length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

According to a preferred embodiment, the pistol grip2100ofFIGS.3and28-32defines an overall taper rate of 0.031 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

And, according to a preferred embodiment, the pistol grip2100defines a taper rate for the front flat2132that is about 0.027 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. In such an example, the ratio of the length LP of the piston feature2140may be about 50.3% of the overall length L of the grip body2104for a preferred embodiment, as discussed above.

The pistol grip, similar to the round and flat grips, may be provided in a plurality of different sizes to accommodate different user preferences.

FIGS.33-37illustrate another example of a pistol grip2200having a generally larger size than the grip2100ofFIGS.28-32. It should be noted that the pistol grip2200ofFIGS.33-37may include all of the features relating to the reverse taper geometry that has been discussed above with respect to the first embodiment of the pistol grip2100. It should also be noted that the taper percentage in the X axis orientation may vary slightly for the second embodiment of the pistol grip2200.

According to certain embodiments, the pistol grip2200ofFIGS.33-37may define an overall taper rate of 0.031-0.035 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. In certain embodiments, the pistol grip2200ofFIGS.33-37defines about 3.1-3.5 percent change in width per unit length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

According to a preferred embodiment, the pistol grip2200ofFIGS.33-37defines an overall taper rate of 0.033 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

And, according to a preferred embodiment, the pistol grip2200defines a taper rate for the front flat2232that is about 0.019 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

In such an example, the ratio of the length LP of the piston feature2240may be about 50.3% of the overall length L of the grip body2204for a preferred embodiment. And, according to such an example, the surface area of the flat sidewall2242of the pistol feature2240on each of the right and left sides of the grip2200may be approximately 20.18 cm2for a preferred embodiment.

A third example of a pistol grip2300having even a larger size as compared to the grips2100,2200ofFIGS.28-32-19and33-37is illustrated inFIGS.38-42. It should be noted that the pistol grip2300ofFIGS.38-42may include all of the features relating to the reverse taper geometry that has been discussed above with respect to the first and second embodiments of the pistol grip. It should also be noted that the taper percentage in the X axis orientation may vary slightly for the third embodiment of the pistol grip2300.

According to certain embodiments, the pistol grip2300ofFIGS.38-42may define an overall taper rate of 0.034-0.038 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip. In certain embodiments, the pistol grip2300ofFIGS.38-42defines about 3.4-3.8 percent change in width per unit length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

According to a preferred embodiment, the pistol grip2300ofFIGS.38-42defines an overall taper rate of 0.036 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

And, according to a preferred embodiment, the pistol grip2300defines a taper rate for the front flat2332that is about 0.021 mm change in width in the X axis orientation for every mm of length of the grip along the entire tapered portion of the grip.

In such an example, the ratio of the length LP of the piston feature2340may be about 50.3% of the overall length L of the grip body2304for a preferred embodiment. And, according to such an example, the surface area of the flat sidewall2342of the pistol feature2340on each of the right and left sides of the grip2300may be approximately 28.85 cm2for a preferred embodiment.

The above specification, examples provide a complete description of the manufacture and use of the disclosure. Since many embodiments of the disclosure can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the inventive aspects, the inventive aspects reside in the claims hereinafter appended.