| This article describes a procedure by which a | | | | The object is to remove the end cap which is very |
| composite field hockey stick can be shortened to the | | | | securely fastened. First, the rivets are drilled out or |
| right length. For example, a 36.5” composite stick | | | | cut off. Then, one uses the large mouth pliers to |
| can be shortened to any measurement between | | | | grasp the end cap, while twisting the stick. One must |
| 36.5” and 35”. A 38” composite stick can | | | | be forceful, since the end cap is tightly glued and may |
| be shortened by as much as one inch to 37”. The | | | | still be connected to the pop rivets. As soon as the |
| shortening of the composite stick will not change the | | | | end cap is removed, one begins cutting by using a |
| center of balance by more than one eighth inch. | | | | stale surface, vise, or miter box. It is necessary to |
| In order for the procedure to be successful, | | | | take your time while cutting, because there is a lot of |
| certain tools are necessary. The procedure is not | | | | carbon in the composite material. When through |
| complicated, but it does require skill in the use of the | | | | cutting, immediately remove any “saw dust” or |
| tools. One should always be careful when using hand | | | | composite particles by tipping and carefully shaking the |
| or power tools. Those who have followed the | | | | stick. Be certain that there are no particles inside of |
| procedure report that it takes about ten minutes to | | | | the end cap. The next step is to refasten the end |
| complete. | | | | cap without the pop rivets. Some epoxy glue may |
| Here are the necessary tools: a carbide blade | | | | be used, although it is not required. After tapping the |
| hacksaw; pliers such as channel locks; a tape | | | | end cap into place, one wraps a layer of tape. Finally, |
| measure; plastic electrical tape; and a cutting tool such | | | | one rewraps the grip and secures it with electrical |
| as a small knife. In addition, a miter box or vise and a | | | | tape. |
| small drill are recommended. | | | | Of course, many are just not confident about |
| To begin, one measures the length to be cut | | | | the idea of shortening their own composite field |
| off from the end cap of the shaft. One layer of tape | | | | hockey sticks. In that case, some field hockey shops |
| is wrapped around the handle to mark where to cut. | | | | offer custom shortening. It may cost a little extra, but |
| One cuts through the grip and peals it away to reveal | | | | it is well worth it to have the proper length field hockey |
| two “pop” rivets that hold the end cap in place. | | | | stick. |