Golf Clubs

Fitting your game to the right set of golf clubs

By Michael Berman

Purchasing the right set of golf clubs, whether they're used golf clubs or discount golf clubs, can make a big difference in your game with clients and partners. You and your clubs have to be a perfect match.

There are several criteria that go into selecting the right clubs for your game:

1. The shaft length of your golf clubs should be fit to your height.
2. The stiffness of the shaft should fit your swing--a stiffer shaft for heavy hitters and a more flexible shaft for those of us who are less muscular.
3. The size of the "sweet spot" should also fit your swing--a larger one for those who come off the ball and a smaller one for more accurate swingers.
4. Using hybrid clubs to replace fairway woods and low-numbered irons can also improve a duffer's game.

Shop for the best price on golf clubs

There are several outlets that sell name-brand golf clubs at huge discounts. This may be the way to go if you are confident in your ability to choose the right clubs.
Try: You can find Callaway golf clubs and Ping golf clubs along with other top brands at websites and stores selling discount golf clubs. Among the better known discount outlets are Golfers Warehouse, Golf Warehouse, The Golf Warehouse and GolfDiscount.com. Golfer's Warehouse gives you the option of ordering from their website or going to one of their retail outlets.

Compare name brands

Manufacturers' websites are loaded with information on how their clubs are made and which clubs are better for you.
Try: Check out Callaway golf clubs, Ping golf clubs, TaylorMade and Nike golf clubs websites to get an idea of what's available. Honma golf clubs are popular, as well.

Have clubs custom made

There are several golf club manufacturers that will make a set of clubs to fit your profile.
Try: Manufacturers that will fill special orders include Nickent, Thomas Golf and Precision Golf.

Go with a hybrid set

Hybrid clubs are great for golfers that have a problem getting adequate loft and distance from fairway woods and low-numbered irons.
Try: Places to check out for good hybrid golf clubs include bobbyjoneshybrid.com, which is the website for Bobby Jones hybrid golf clubs. Nickent, Golfsmith and Thomas Golf are also good sources of hybrid golf clubs.

Buy specialized irons and woods

Sometimes it's better to purchase parts of your set from different manufacturers. One company may make better woods, another better irons and a third better grips.
Try: There are many companies that specialize in making woods, irons, grips and everything else that comprises a complete set of golf clubs. The Hammer Golf Shop is the manufacturer of Jack Hamm's woods. Go to www.mastergrip.com, now known as mgGolf, for grips, gloves and golf bags for golf clubs. Other companies with specialized golf clubs include Golf Pride and Golfsmith.

Consider purchasing a used set

If you're a beginner and not sure if you'll like the game or simply want to save some money, a used set may be the right fit for you.
Try: Check with your local golf course's pro shop to see what used clubs they have available. If you know basically what you want, you can take a look at used sets from Golfsmith, Callaway, GlobalGolf and The Golf Warehouse.

If you're not sure what you need or are new to the game, consult a PGA professional or knowledgeable retailer to be "fit" with a set of clubs.
Avoid prepackaged sets or other special deals offered by sporting goods stores and other retailers. Only buy sets matched to your game.