Beginner Golf Clubs: Guide to Buy Used Golf Clubs

If you think you're a beginner golfer ready to start playing golf for the first time, but don't want to buy an expensive new set of clubs, consider buying used golf clubs. There are plenty of online sites, like eBay or Amazon, where you can find pre-owned clubs, and many brick-and-mortar retailers also offer used sets. If you know what you're looking for, you can find the right set of used clubs to fit your body type, ability and pocketbook.

How to find the Right Fit

Fitting clubs to your body type is an important first step. Most used and new golf clubs come with a standard length shaft, but if you are more than 6 feet 6 inches tall or shorter than 5 feet tall, look for clubs with shafts at least an inch longer or shorter than standard. Most standard women's clubs are about an inch shorter than men's and are generally lighter in weight. Look for clubs that were custom fit to somebody if your size and stature, though those can be hard to come by.

Be sure to look for Blemishes

Second hand golf clubs will have some wear and tear. First make sure the club heads aren't loose. Check the groves in the heads of the irons to determine if they have been worn smooth. Avoid choosing clubs with rust, or with dents in the steel shafts or with large nicks in graphite shafts.

Don't be concerned if the grips are worn. They can be replaced easily and inexpensively, as most sporting goods stores offer cheap regripping for new and old clubs.

Consider a Half Set

A standard set of golf clubs includes a driver, two fairway woods, a set of irons (3,4,5,6,7,8,9 and pitching wedge) and a putter. Although there is nothing wrong with someone new to the sport buying a complete golf set, you can save money by purchasing a partial set. Those in the beginner skill level might want to consider getting two woods (3 and 5 wood), four irons (4,6,8 and pitching wedge) and a putter. If you have some spare money, consider a sand wedge to make bunkers just a bit easier on you.

Modern Designs

Do not skimp on modern golf technology for the sake of saving a few dollars. Some used sets are very inexpensive, but may be many years behind what are known as "game improvement" clubs.

Look for woods with large club faces that permit reasonably good shots even when you mishit the golf ball. These will be forgiving pieces of golf equipment that will make traversing the golf course that much easier.

Look for irons that have perimeter weighting, allowing new golfers with slower swing speed and less accurate swings to hit the ball relatively solid and straight. Also, consider a newer type of golf club known as "hybrid" clubs. These are small-faced metal woods that are generally easier to hit than long irons, such as a 3 or 4 iron.

How to find a used Putter?

When purchasing a putter, new or used, the most important thing to consider is how the club feels in your hand when you hit the ball.

Is it balanced and comfortable? Does the ball come off the clubface with a natural roll instead of a skid-like action? And do you like the way it looks? Again, choose a putter that employs some of the newest technology, and game improvement design, and gives you a feeling of confidence when you step up to the ball.

What are the best golf club brands?

While filling your golf bag with off-brand or low market clubs is very easy, having high quality name brand clubs is preferred. The top flight brands include Taylormade, Callaway and Titleist. Cobra also has a very good driver program with top notch shaft flex and a great hosel.