Every golfer has been there — you watch your ball land on the green and leave a small crater in the turf. That crater is called a ball mark, or divot, and if left unrepaired it can damage the green for days. That's where a divot repair tool comes in.
What Is a Divot Repair Tool?
A divot repair tool (also called a divot tool or pitch mark repairer) is a small, forked instrument used to fix ball marks on putting greens. When a golf ball lands from height, it compresses the turf and leaves an indentation. A divot tool lets you gently lift and level the grass back into place, keeping the green smooth and healthy.
How to Use a Divot Repair Tool
Using a divot tool correctly takes about 10 seconds:
- Insert the two prongs of the divot tool around the edge of the ball mark at an angle — not straight down.
- Gently push the turf inward toward the center of the mark from several sides.
- Smooth the surface with your putter.
That's it. Proper repair helps the grass recover in hours rather than days.
Why Every Golfer Should Carry One
Repairing your divots is golf etiquette 101 — it protects the course and speeds up play. Most courses expect every player to carry and use a divot tool on every hole. Beyond etiquette, a repaired green is a faster, truer green — which benefits your own putting too.
The Smarter Way to Carry a Divot Tool
The Green Lock™ 4-in-1 Golf Multi-Tool has a built-in divot repair tool that attaches directly to the end of your putter. No more digging through your pockets on the green — your divot tool is always right where you need it, along with a golf ball marker, ball picker upper, and club stand.