Putter shaft extension

This invention is an extension for a putter shaft which uses spacers to provide different extension lengths and a system of pins to prevent unwanted loosening. The pins, spacers, and threaded attachment method are designed to make incorrect assembly virtually impossible. The extension is especially suitable for extending a conventional putter shaft so the putter can be used as a mid-length “belly” putter.

1. Description of Prior Art

Putting can be a frustrating part of a golfer\'s game and consequently golfers often try putters with different shaft lengths to improve this part of their game. Conventional length putters typically have overall lengths of 84 cm (33 inches) to 91 cm (36 inches) and are held only in the golfer\'s two hands. A putter with a longer overall length, typically 104 cm (41 inches) to 114 cm (45 inches), is commonly called a mid-length, or belly putter. The belly putter has a longer shaft than a conventional putter which enables the golfer to place the end of the shaft into his navel, thereby helping to stabilize the putter. Putters with even longer shafts are sometimes used in which the shaft end is placed in the golfer\'s sternum or even his chin, and these putters are commonly called long putters.

If a golfer has a conventional length putter but would like to try a longer putter, a belly putter for instance, this can be difficult and expensive. Belly putters are not commonly found in golf pro shops and smaller golf retailers, and therefore it is not easy to “demo” one to see if it is a fit for the golfer. Usually the golfer must purchase a belly putter, from an on-line retailer for instance, and they are typically more expensive than conventional putters. Also, there is no good way, apart from trying several putters, to determine a shaft length that is most suitable. If the golfer randomly chooses a length and orders that length, he may face purchasing one or more additional putters to obtain a suitable shaft length. In many cases, this expense and difficulty prevents golfers from trying belly putters. A putter shaft extension which could easily and inexpensively convert an existing putter into a belly putter or long putter and which could provide different extension lengths, would aid golfers in their effort to try these longer putters.

A consideration in any putter shaft extension, especially one that is adjustable, is acceptance by the United States Golf Association (USGA) as conforming to the rules of golf. One applicable USGA rule is that all adjustable parts must be firmly fixed and that there is no reasonable likelihood of them coming loose during play. Friction fit methods of adjustment are generally not permitted because they are not considered firmly fixed. Another important rule is that the adjustment cannot be readily made but must require the use of a special tool such as a screwdriver or Allen key. Another consideration which appears to be desirable to the USGA is that an assembly which can be installed or removed from a golf club has design features which make it virtually impossible for the user to install incorrectly. Several prior art patents appear to fall short of one or more of these rules.

2. Objects and Advantages

It is an object of this invention to provide an extension for a putter shaft which uses spacers to provide different extension lengths and pins to prevent accidental loosening.

It is a further object of this invention to provide an extension for a putter shaft which is virtually impossible to assemble incorrectly, helping insure its conformance with the rules of golf.

Still further objects and advantages will become apparent from a consideration of the ensuing description and drawings.