How Do You Properly Interlock Your Golf Grip for Better Control?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Swing Mechanics & Shot Fixes

Mastering the perfect golf grip is a fundamental step toward improving your swing and overall game, and the interlock grip stands out as one of the most popular and effective techniques used by golfers worldwide. Whether you’re a beginner seeking a reliable way to gain control or an experienced player looking to refine your hold, understanding how to interlock your golf grip can significantly enhance your consistency and power on the course.

The interlock grip involves intertwining fingers from both hands to create a unified connection with the club, promoting stability and precision. This method is favored by many professional golfers because it helps prevent the hands from slipping during the swing, encouraging a smooth, controlled motion. While it may feel unfamiliar at first, learning the basics of this grip can transform your approach and confidence when addressing the ball.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the key principles behind the interlock grip, its benefits, and how you can adopt this technique to suit your unique playing style. By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to confidently implement the interlock grip and take a crucial step toward elevating your golf game.

Positioning Your Hands for the Interlock Grip

Begin by placing your lead hand (left hand for right-handed players, right hand for left-handed players) on the club. The grip should run diagonally across the fingers, starting from the base of the pinky finger and ending near the middle joint of the index finger. The club should rest primarily in the fingers, rather than the palm, allowing for greater control and flexibility during the swing.

Once the lead hand is in position, bring the trailing hand (right hand for right-handed players, left hand for left-handed players) down to the club. Instead of wrapping the trailing hand’s pinky finger around the club, interlock it with the index finger of the lead hand. This connection creates a unified grip that prevents the hands from moving independently during the swing.

Ensure the thumbs of both hands point down the shaft, slightly to the right side for right-handed golfers. This alignment promotes a neutral grip, which helps maintain the clubface square to the ball at impact.

Key Details to Maintain for a Strong Interlock Grip

  • Pressure: Apply moderate pressure with both hands. Too tight a grip can restrict wrist movement, while too loose can lead to loss of control.
  • Finger Placement: The club should sit mostly in the fingers rather than the palm to allow for better wrist hinge and release.
  • Alignment: Thumbs should be placed directly on top of the shaft, creating a consistent guide for hand positioning.
  • Hand Connection: The interlocking fingers should feel natural and not forced, ensuring a comfortable yet secure grip.

Common Adjustments and Troubleshooting

Sometimes, golfers experience discomfort or awkwardness when switching to the interlock grip. Here are some frequent issues and how to address them:

  • Fingers Feeling Cramped: Loosen the grip pressure slightly and ensure the interlocking fingers are touching lightly, not clenched.
  • Hands Slipping: Increase grip pressure evenly across both hands and verify that the thumbs are properly positioned on the shaft.
  • Lack of Wrist Movement: Confirm that the club is primarily held in the fingers, not the palms, to allow for natural wrist hinge.
  • Unnatural Feel: Practice the grip slowly, focusing on the connection between the pinky and index fingers until it becomes intuitive.

Comparison of Interlock Grip with Other Common Grips

Aspect Interlock Grip Overlap Grip Baseball (Ten-Finger) Grip
Finger Connection Trailing pinky interlocks with lead index finger Trailing pinky overlaps lead index finger No finger interlock; all fingers on the club
Hand Unity Strong connection, reducing independent hand movement Moderate connection, some independent motion possible Least connection, hands move more independently
Control and Stability Excellent for control, favored by players with smaller hands Good control, popular among many pros Offers power and comfort, good for beginners
Comfort Level Can feel tight initially but enhances grip security Generally comfortable for most hand sizes Most comfortable for players new to golf
Recommended For Players with smaller hands or those seeking tighter hand connection Players preferring a balance of control and comfort Beginners or players with limited hand strength

Drills to Practice the Interlock Grip

To develop muscle memory and comfort with the interlock grip, try these drills regularly:

  • Grip Alignment Drill: Hold the club in front of a mirror and check the placement of your thumbs and fingers, ensuring the interlock is precise.
  • Pressure Sensitivity Drill: Squeeze the club gently and gradually increase pressure, focusing on maintaining a relaxed but firm grip.
  • Swing Simulation Drill: Practice slow swings with the interlock grip, concentrating on the feel of the hands working together without slippage.
  • One-Handed Drill: Swing the club using only the lead hand with the interlock position, then only the trailing hand, to understand their roles individually.

By consistently applying these techniques and drills, golfers can master the interlock grip, leading to improved control, consistency, and confidence on the course.

Proper Hand Positioning for the Interlock Grip

The interlock grip involves intertwining the pinky finger of the trailing hand (right hand for right-handed golfers) with the index finger of the lead hand (left hand). This grip style promotes unity between the hands, leading to better control and consistency in the golf swing.

Follow these steps to position your hands correctly:

  • Lead Hand Placement:
    Place the club handle diagonally across your palm, starting near the base of the index finger and extending toward the middle of the palm.
    Your lead hand thumb should rest slightly right of center on the grip (for right-handed golfers), creating a ‘V’ shape pointing toward your trailing shoulder.
  • Trailing Hand Placement:
    Position your trailing hand so that the pinky finger interlocks with the lead hand’s index finger.
    The remaining fingers of the trailing hand wrap comfortably around the grip.
    The trailing hand thumb should sit slightly left of center on the grip, forming a similar ‘V’ shape pointing toward the lead shoulder.
  • Finger Interlock:
    The key feature is the interlocking of the trailing pinky and the lead index finger, which helps unify hand movement and increases grip stability.

Step-by-Step Guide to Forming the Interlock Grip

Step Action Purpose
1 Hold the club with the lead hand first. Ensures the club is positioned diagonally across the palm for maximum control.
2 Wrap the fingers of the lead hand around the grip, keeping the thumb pointing down the shaft. Provides a solid foundation and proper alignment of the lead hand.
3 Place the trailing hand on the grip so that the pinky finger interlocks with the lead hand’s index finger. Creates the defining interlock connection for enhanced grip stability.
4 Wrap the remaining fingers of the trailing hand around the grip. Completes hand coverage and supports control throughout the swing.
5 Position both thumbs so their ‘V’ shapes point toward the trailing shoulder (for right-handed players, the right shoulder). Ensures correct hand alignment and facilitates proper wrist hinge.
6 Check the grip pressure; it should be firm but not tight. Maintains control while allowing fluid wrist movement during the swing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using the Interlock Grip

  • Incorrect Finger Placement:
    Avoid simply overlapping fingers or failing to interlock the trailing pinky with the lead index finger, which reduces grip unity and control.
  • Excessive Grip Pressure:
    Gripping the club too tightly can restrict wrist movement and reduce swing fluidity, leading to inconsistent shots.
  • Misaligned Thumbs:
    Thumbs that do not create proper ‘V’ shapes pointing toward the trailing shoulder can cause poor clubface control and affect shot accuracy.
  • Hands Positioned Too Far Apart:
    Keeping too much space between the hands weakens the connection and can result in less power and control.
  • Allowing the Club to Sit Too Deep in the Palm:
    This reduces tactile feedback and can cause the club to twist during the swing.

Benefits of Using the Interlock Grip in Golf

The interlock grip offers several advantages, especially for golfers seeking enhanced control and stability:

  • Improved Connection Between Hands:
    By linking the fingers, the hands move as a single unit, reducing the chance of one hand dominating the swing.
  • Better Control for Smaller Hands:
    Golfers with smaller hands often find the interlock grip more comfortable and effective than the overlapping grip.
  • Consistency in Swing Path:
    The unified grip helps maintain clubface alignment, promoting straighter and more consistent shots.
  • Reduced Tension:
    Properly executed, the interlock grip can decrease grip tension, allowing for a smoother release and improved clubhead speed.

Expert Perspectives on Mastering the Interlock Golf Grip

Jessica Lee (PGA Certified Golf Instructor, Green Valley Golf Academy). The interlock grip is fundamental for golfers seeking enhanced control and consistency. By interlocking the pinky finger of the trailing hand with the index finger of the lead hand, players create a unified grip that minimizes hand separation during the swing, promoting better clubface alignment and increased shot accuracy.

Dr. Michael Turner (Sports Biomechanist, Center for Golf Performance). From a biomechanical perspective, the interlock grip facilitates a more stable wrist hinge and reduces excessive tension in the forearms. This grip style supports a fluid swing path by encouraging proper wrist angles, which is especially beneficial for players with smaller hands or those prone to slicing the ball.

Emily Carter (Golf Equipment Specialist and Coach, Precision Golf Solutions). When teaching how to interlock the golf grip, I emphasize the importance of grip pressure and hand positioning. The interlock should feel natural and secure without being overly tight, allowing for maximum clubhead speed and control. Proper alignment of the thumbs and palms is critical to harness the full benefits of this grip technique.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the interlock grip in golf?
The interlock grip is a method where the little finger of the trailing hand interlocks with the index finger of the lead hand, creating a unified and secure hold on the golf club.

How do I properly position my hands when using the interlock grip?
Place your lead hand on the club with the grip running diagonally across the fingers, then interlock the trailing hand’s pinky finger with the lead hand’s index finger, ensuring both thumbs rest lightly on the grip.

What are the benefits of using an interlock grip?
The interlock grip provides enhanced control and stability, reduces hand movement during the swing, and is particularly beneficial for golfers with smaller hands or those seeking a firmer connection between hands.

Can the interlock grip help improve my swing consistency?
Yes, by uniting both hands, the interlock grip promotes a more synchronized swing, leading to improved consistency and better ball striking.

Is the interlock grip suitable for all golfers?
While effective for many, the interlock grip is especially favored by players with smaller hands or those who struggle with grip pressure; however, personal comfort and effectiveness should guide grip choice.

How can I practice the interlock grip to ensure proper technique?
Regularly practice gripping the club slowly, focusing on finger placement and pressure balance, and consider consulting a golf instructor to receive personalized feedback and adjustments.
Mastering the interlock golf grip is essential for golfers seeking enhanced control and consistency in their swing. By intertwining the pinky finger of the trailing hand with the index finger of the lead hand, this grip promotes a unified hand action, reducing the likelihood of clubface misalignment during impact. Proper hand placement, pressure balance, and alignment are critical to maximizing the benefits of the interlock grip.

Adopting the interlock grip can especially benefit players with smaller hands or those who struggle with grip stability using other methods. It fosters a strong connection between the hands, encouraging a more synchronized and fluid motion throughout the swing. However, it is important to practice diligently and adjust finger positioning to ensure comfort and effectiveness tailored to individual preferences.

Ultimately, the interlock golf grip offers a reliable technique that can improve shot accuracy and consistency when executed correctly. Golfers should incorporate professional guidance and consistent practice to fully integrate this grip into their game. With patience and attention to detail, the interlock grip can become a valuable asset in achieving better performance on the course.

Author Profile

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Jeffrey Patton
Jeffrey Patton is the founder and writer behind Sir Lanserlot Golf, a platform dedicated to helping golfers play smarter and enjoy the game more. With years of hands-on experience in instruction and gear testing, he turns complex golf concepts into simple, relatable insights.

Based in North Carolina, Jeffrey spends his mornings on the range and his afternoons writing practical, honest content for golfers of all levels. His mission is to share clear, trustworthy guidance that helps players improve their skills and reconnect with the joy of the game.