Frequently asked questions by customers:

Question:  What are the differences between the Pro and Standard model Spine Finders?

I make two spine tools.  The standard one is $55.00 plus shipping. The Pro model is $65.00 plus shipping.  The standard tool will handle all shafts with butt diameters up to .620. This covers 99% of the shafts on the market.  The Pro model will handle all shafts with butt diameters up .660.  During the past year Aldila NV series, some Proforce, and Fujikura shafts have butt diameters larger than .625.  If you deal with these shafts, you may want to go with Pro model.  Shipping cost within the United States is $10.00.  I ship by USPS Priority Mail.

Question:  What is the difference between the PVC model Spine Finder on the market and your spine finder?

    I'm so glad that you asked that question!  As I mentioned in my write-up on ebay, I tried to build my spine finder using PVC pipe.  I was not happy with the results that I got because PVC pipe will change dimensions from winter to summer. If you over-tighten the PVC pipe in a vise when securing it, the PVC pipe will flex.  This flexing can cause bearing alignment problems. 

    To overcome these problems, I decided to manufacture my product with steel DOM tubing.   I machine the tubing in a lathe to create the perfect alignment for the bearings.  I have sold hundreds of these tools, and I've never had a customer to report that they have damaged a shaft using it.  I also weld a flange on the tubing for securing it in a vise.  I'm not sure how you can secure the PVC pipe without causing it to flex.  Frankly, it is just not rigid enough.  

    The biggest difference comes in the bearings.  My competitors are using a metal-shielded bearing.  I can tell this because of the photographs.  I've tried using these bearings. It is impossible to remove the shield to modify the bearings the way that I modify them (causing them to be free-spinning) and to re-install the shields.  The shielded bearings do not make contact with the internal race.  This will allow graphite dust and shop dust to enter the bearings.  I'm confident that my competitors are using shielded bearings because they spin easier than sealed bearings.  However, after I modify the sealed bearings, there is no comparison between the free-spinning of my sealed bearings versus the shielded.

    My tool is built for the professional club builder and is constructed to last for a lifetime of daily use.

Question:  Can you damage a shaft using your Spine Tool?
 

 Yes, you can damage a shaft if you don't follow the instructions that I have written that come with the tool.  You should never flex the shaft more than 2 1/2 inches.  If the shaft does not snap to the NBP (Neutral Bend Position), there is no detectable spine in the shaft.  Exceeding 2 1/2 inches of flex could cause damage to the shaft.