Do you have to put the wooden end back in a composite hockey stick when you cut it?

Question

I am cutting down the length of the stick

Answer 1

The wood end plug is a carryover concept from the days of aluminum. It served to lengthen the shaft, protect the user from jagged aluminum edges and was also found to serve as a dampening element to offset the harsh vibration of the metal.

Today, it still serves as a lengthening element but can also help if the vibration of the composite is unpleasant to the user. Many of those who prefer the dampening of wood in this scenario, will cut the external portion of the plug down to 1/4" or 1/8" and let the inserted portion of the wood help calm the frequency of the composite.

Answer 2

Yeah, if you cut it off then you'd naturally have to put it back on.

Answer 3

No, just make sure you tape it up real good!!!

Answer 4

No you don't need to replace it.  They are usually just there for slight size adjustment to fit you.  So if the stick fits you right without it, then don't worry about it.

Answer 5

I definitely recommend putting it back in although you can cut it down so that there is only a quarter inch of wood if you want. I've seen people break a finger from a stick coming down and their pinky getting caught under it.

Answer 6

No, the wooden butt end is there to only lengthen the stick it is not a rule (at least in USA hockey rulebook) that the end of the stick cannot be hollow.

Some rinks however can enforce whatever rules they like and if they will not allow you to play with a hollow end, just stick the wooden butt back in and cut it down to the shaft.

Answer 7

what are you referring to do you mean cutting the blade off or cutting the stick down to make it a different length

Answer 8

It is not a requirement to replace the plug.  The only reason I can think of is to prevent debris from dropping into the shaft.

One thing you must do though is cover the opening with something.  Tape is acceptable but both North American amateur rulebooks (USA Hockey and Hockey Canada) require that the opening be covered.