Beginner Golf Set - Tips on Buying Golf Clubs
Buying your first set of golf clubs can be a daunting experience, not least because there is a truly bewildering array of clubs available that cater to every standard of player and every budget. As a beginner, look for a club that is geared toward the novice and offers ease of use and forgiveness on those shots that don't go according to plan.
You may want to consider buying a half set (typically consisting of two woods, five irons, and a putter) and build up to a full set once you're happy with the clubs. Think also about booking yourself in for what's called a "custom it" with your local golf shop professional. This will help you find the right club for your standard of play.
Of all the clubs in a golfer's bag, the putter is loved and loathed in equal measure. When things go right on the green and the putts are dropping from all distances, it becomes the club that you simply can't live without. But when things go wrong, as they inevitably do, it all too often becomes the scapegoat, discarded in the next round in favor of a different model.
Many beginners find that what's called a "heel and toe" putter is the easiest to use, but before you settle on one, take a selection on to a practice green and hit some putts. Most golf clubs will allow you to try putters before you buy them (you can ask at the club shop). Some will feel great, some a little strange, some light, and others heavy. It's a question of feel, and you will only find out what feels comfortable by experimenting.
Here are some common golf clubs that should be included in your set:
Weighted clubface - The clubface of this iron has what's called "perimeter weighting." This is designed to be more forgiving than other clubs, and help lessen the effects of badly hit shots.
Shaft - Beginners should look for clubs with steel or graphite shafts. Both have their merits, so you should always try before you buy.
Clubface grooves - The grooves on the clubface of this iron help to bite the ball on impact, making it spin and keeping it in the air longer. Be sure to keep grooves free of dirt.
Cavity backing - Cavity-backed clubs like these have a larger sweet spot than other clubs, making them easier for beginners to use.
Fairway wood - The fairway wood is popular with beginners because it has a more lofted face and offers greater control than the driver.
Lofted face - A driver has a wide, shallow face. The least lofted of all the clubs, it is designed to propel the ball the greatest distance.
Heel and toe putter - These putters are best suited to the novice golfer since they have a bigger sweet spot and offer greater forgiveness on badly struck putts.
Putters with Sight lines - Some putters have sight lines on the head to help give you a better chance of striking the center of your ball during your putting stroke.
Don't Forget about Club covers!
Covering your driver, fairway woods, and your putter with club-head covers can save them from unnecessary damage. These clubs are generally the most expensive ones in a player's set and therefore need extra protection when they are rattling around in a golf bag.
