Andrew Pace
A broken badminton racket handle can be frustrating, especially if it's your favourite racket. The good news is that it can be fixed! You can attempt to repair it yourself with some superglue, epoxy, or by purchasing a new handle from online stores like Amazon, eBay, or specialist shops like My Badminton Store. If you're handy with tools, you can even make your own replacement handle. However, it's important to note that not all damages can be repaired, and attempting to fix a severely damaged racket may affect its performance and balance. To prevent breakage, ensure your racket handle is dry and sweat-proof by wrapping it with a layer of plastic cover or cellophane tape.
How to fix a broken badminton racket handle
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Prevention | Ensure the wooden racket handle is dry at all times before wrapping grips. Wrap the handle with a layer of plastic cover or cellophane tape to make it sweat-proof. |
| Repair with superglue | Place cardboard underneath the racket to protect your work surface. Remove damaged grommets and fill the crack with superglue, flipping the racket to fill from the other side. Leave to dry for a day, then test the repaired area by applying force to check for movement. |
| Repair with a new handle | Purchase a new handle of the correct size from online retailers or specialist stores. Sand the shaft until it is clean, then fit the new handle without forcing it. Secure the handle with glue and a small screw. |
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What You'll Learn
Buy a new handle
If your badminton racket handle is broken, you can simply buy a new handle. This is a lot easier than trying to make your own, especially if your woodworking skills and tools are limited.
You can buy replacement handles online from stores such as My Badminton Store, where you can choose the right size for your racket. Handles are available for as little as $4.95, including shipping. When selecting a new handle, you should measure the diameter of your racket's shaft and choose the correct size on the website. If you want a bigger or smaller handle, now is the time to choose.
Once you have received your new handle, you can remove the old one. First, you need to remove the grip. You can throw it away and use a new one, or reuse it on your new handle in combination with your favourite overgrip. To remove the old handle, simply pull the grip loose.
When you receive your new handle, it will come with a plastic cone (front cap) and a bottom (end cap), so you won't need to recover these parts from your old, broken racket.
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Remove the old handle
To remove the old handle from your badminton racket, you will need to first remove the grip. You can pull it loose and decide whether to throw it away or reuse it on your new handle. Next, you will need to remove four U-shaped nails with a small screwdriver. The wood is soft, so this should be easy. Underneath the end cap, there is another plastic cap that makes the handle lighter. You can recover this if you wish, but it is not critical. It should pop out easily as it is not glued.
Now, use a hammer and a chisel or screwdriver to split the wood. Be careful, as the wood is soft and can split easily. Remove the small screw just below the front cap with a small screwdriver. You may also need to remove the damaged grommets and replace any missing ones.
Before attaching your new handle, you will need to sand the shaft until it is clean. Use fine sanding paper in combination with a vise to sand it evenly over the length. Be careful not to sand too much, especially if your racket is made of carbon fibre composite. You may need to make the hole in the handle bigger by using a 7 mm drill. Rotate it a few times manually, and do not use a drilling machine.
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Sand the shaft
Sanding the shaft is an important step in repairing a broken badminton racket handle. It is necessary to prepare the surface of the shaft for a secure and lasting repair. Here is a detailed guide on how to sand the shaft:
Begin by inspecting the shaft for any remaining glue or wood residue left from the previous handle. Use fine-grit sandpaper to gently sand the shaft, removing any glue or wood remnants. Ensure you sand evenly along the length of the shaft. Be cautious not to over-sand, as the shaft is likely made of carbon fibre composite, which can be easily sanded away. The goal is to create a smooth and clean surface for the new handle to adhere to.
When sanding, it is recommended to use a vise to hold the shaft securely. This will help you achieve a more consistent and controlled sanding motion. Ensure the vise is tightened just enough to hold the shaft in place without damaging it. Work the sandpaper back and forth along the shaft, applying light pressure.
Take special care near the end of the shaft that will be inserted into the handle. This area needs to be smooth and free of any rough spots or glue residue. The shaft should fit snugly into the handle without forcing it. If necessary, you can use a 7 mm drill to carefully widen the hole in the handle, but avoid using a drilling machine for this step.
The sanding process may take some time, so be patient and meticulous. Once you have finished sanding, wipe down the shaft with a clean cloth to remove any dust or debris. It is important to have a clean surface before proceeding to the next step of gluing and assembling the new handle.
By properly sanding the shaft, you will create a strong and durable joint between the shaft and the handle, ensuring your repaired badminton racket performs optimally.
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Apply glue
When fixing a broken badminton racket handle, the type of glue you use is important. For carbon fibre rackets, a long-cure time epoxy is recommended. You can also use superglue, but be mindful not to fill the inside of the grommet, or you won't be able to re-string the racket.
Before gluing, ensure that the shaft is clean and free of any residual glue or wood by sanding it. Use fine sanding paper and a vise to sand it evenly over the length of the shaft. Be careful not to over-sand, as the racket is made of carbon fibre composite, which is easy to sand. You want to sand it just enough so that the shaft fits into the handle without forcing it. Drilling a 7mm hole in the handle can also help to secure the shaft and allow air to escape when gluing.
Once the shaft is prepared, it's time to apply the glue. Place a piece of cardboard or waste paper underneath the racket to protect your work surface from any glue drips or smears. Elevate the racket slightly so that any wet glue on its surface doesn't stick to the cardboard. Carefully apply the glue to the crack, making sure to fill it from both sides. Remove any air bubbles as you work, as they can prevent the crack from being filled properly.
After gluing, leave the racket to dry for at least a day. Once the glue is completely dry, test the repaired area by applying some force to it and checking for any movement at the crack spot. If the spot feels solid, your repair is complete!
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Use superglue to fill cracks
If your badminton racket handle has a crack, you can use superglue to repair it. This method is ideal if you're looking to repair a racket to donate or for kids to play with.
To start, place cardboard underneath the racket to protect your work surface from any glue drips. Ensure the crack is clear of any air bubbles, as these will prevent the crack from being filled properly. Next, apply the superglue, allowing it to flow into the crack so that it seals and fills it up. Flip the racket and fill the crack from the other side, too. Ensure the cracked spot doesn't come into contact with the cardboard behind, or the racket will stick to it.
Be mindful not to fill inside any grommets, or the strings won't be able to pass through when you re-string the racket. If the crack is on top of a grommet, you won't be able to change it in the future.
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Frequently asked questions
You can fix a broken badminton racket handle by buying a replacement handle and gluing it to the racket shaft. Make sure to sand the shaft and use the right type of glue, such as epoxy. You can buy replacement handles from websites like eBay, Amazon, or My Badminton Store.
You should use epoxy or superglue to fix a broken badminton racket handle. If you use epoxy, make sure it has a long cure time.
To prevent your badminton racket handle from breaking, make sure the wood is dry and sweat-proof. You can wrap the handle with a layer of plastic cover or cellophane tape to make it sweat-proof.
