First change of clubs

[iku]

I'm still playing with my Wilson starter kit but now that my game has improved and I got my handicap (22) I'd like to start picking some new clubs. Provided that I will surely try the clubs before buying them, can you please tell me which club should I start with? I'm quite happy with my irons and was thinking of getting a new driver or a putter but am seeking advice from people who went through this already. Also new or used clubs?

My budget is £500-700 but I'm not sure my game is worth a brand new R11 for example.

Thanks a lot.

 

[Aztecs27]

You can get PLENTY for that budget.

Definitely don't rule out second hand stuff.

But I would definitely go for a fitting to see what shafts/loft/lie are suitable for you.

Then if you get a second hand set (of irons) you can find the ones that you like and if needs be, get them adjusted (easier with forged irons like Mizuno, Titleist etc).

Someone will be along shortly to give you less-vague help!

 

[Mightymoose]

You're quite happy with your existing clubs and your game is improving - Why change?

Mightymoose (Yorkshireman)

 

[TheClaw]

Don't agree with moose...I think you should get new clubs...as a reward for getting better

There's loads of drivers out there. You could start by trying a few such as: Taylormade Burner (any of the last few years models), Cleveland Launcher, Ping g15 or g10 or if you want to stick with Wilson then the Smooth or DXI are meant to be good. I'd go down to the shop and grab a few with different flexes and give them a try. New or used.

As for a putter I'd take care to get one that you'll hopefully keep long term. The style e.g. Mallet or blade will depend on your putting stroke but there's loads of choice out there. I'd say the most important thing is to get the putter the correct length and lie (or get it adjusted to suit). As for makes you can't go wrong with: Odyssey, Scotty Cameron or Yes!

 

[Macster]

Good set of used Ping irons......£150 ? (You can get these custom fitted for Free @ Ping in Gainsborough ......or nominal cost etc)
G5/10 Driver or similar used. - £50-100.
Hybrid/Rescue - £50
Putter - get a good one, perhaps even new.....£50/100.

For £400 you could have all you need to see you down to a lot lot lower.

Or buy new shiny things.......and blow the lot.....& more !!

the choice is yours.

 

[HomerJSimpson]

Try before you buy would be the main rule. Have a look at your local driving range or your club pro and see they have or can recommend. Your could get Ping G10, Cally X20/22 the original TM Burner for less than £350 and give yourself plenty of cash for woods and a putter. The putter will be the most subjective and irrespective of brand and model it has to be the one that looks and feels the best for you

 

[DrPepper]

If new clubs are what you want to see you in to the future then don't be a brand snob, MD Golf, Benross, Cobra, Wilson etc etc all make awesome kit for your level of play and cost a fraction of what Pings, Mizuno or Callaways will.

Everything's about comfort, confidence and consistency it doesn't matter if you achieve this with a £300 R11 or a £30 Dunlop. The best advice that can be given is not to rush things and make sure you try, try and try again as many clubs as you can before you make your choice. When I went to get my newest Hybrid I had my heart set on one of the new Callaway models but left the Pro shop with a Cobra and I have never looked back the club just works!

Good luck and happy club hunting!
Doctor P.

 

[Smiffy]

Everything's about comfort, confidence and consistency it doesn't matter if you achieve this with a £300 R11 or a £30 Dunlop.

Wise words.
I am a firm believer in the "looks" of the club/clubs being important. If it looks like you could do some damage with it/them, the chances are you will. Doesn't matter how much, or how little, they cost, they have got to look right to you.
And I'm also a firm believer that the shaft is the most important thing. You could have the best looking clubs in the world, but if they are fitted with the wrong shaft for you then you won't hit them, you won't enjoy trying to hit them, and consequently your confidence will go to pot.
Pick a few clubs up, and go by your gut reaction. If you feel that you could really hit the ball well with a particular model, have a bash. Try different shaft combinations. Find out your swing speed. That will tell you a lot, whether you need a regular, stiff or extra stiff shaft, steel or graphite.
Ignore the manufacturers name. A top name doesn't always mean a top game.