This article describes a procedure by which a composite field hockey stick can be shortened to the correct length. For example, a 36.5″ composite club can be shortened to any length between 36.5″ and 35″. A 38″ composite club can be shortened by as much as one inch to 37″. Shortening the composite club will not change the length. center of balance by more than an eighth of an inch.
For the procedure to be successful, certain tools are necessary. The procedure is not complicated, but it requires skill in the use of the tools. Care should always be taken when using hand or power tools. Those who have followed the procedure report that it takes about ten minutes to complete. These are the necessary tools: a hacksaw with a carbide blade; tweezers as channel locks; a tape measure; plastic insulating tape; and a cutting tool such as a small knife. Also, a miter box or vise and a small drill are recommended.
To begin, the length to be cut from the shaft end cap is measured. A layer of tape is wrapped around the handle to mark where to cut. One cuts through the hilt and peels it off to reveal two “pop” rivets that hold the end cap in place. The goal is to remove the end cap that is securely attached. First, the rivets are drilled or cut. Then one uses the large nose pliers to grasp the end cap, while twisting the stick. It must be blunt as the end cap is well glued on and may still be attached to the pop rivets. As soon as the end cap is removed, cutting begins using a stable surface, a vise, or a miter box. It is necessary to take your time during the cut, because there is a lot of carbon in the composite material. When finished cutting, immediately remove any “saw dust” or compound particles by carefully tilting and shaking the stick. Make sure there are no particles inside the end cap. The next step is to reattach the end cap without the rivets. Some epoxy glue can be used, but is not required. After the end cap is put in place, a layer of tape is wrapped around it. Finally, the grip is wrapped again and secured with electrical tape.
Of course, many are simply not sure about the idea of ​​shortening their own composite field hockey sticks. In that case, some field hockey shops offer custom butter. It may cost a bit more, but having the right length field hockey stick is worth it.