Questions & Answers Responses from PGA/LPGA Teachers on FINDaLESSON.com                                                                                  << BACK From Kevin, golfer: I am a beginner golfer and need to purchase a set of clubs. What would, in your opinion, be a good buy and fairly cheap? PGA/LPGA TEACHING PROFESSIONAL RESPONSES: California "Kevin:  Thanks for the email - and what a good question. The main thing for beginners is to have a set of clubs that properly fits the individual. Fitted clubs have come a long way over the past ten years, and is now almost a norm. Anyway, for a good set of clubs that is relatively cheap yet good I would recommend Tommy Armour 845, as the "best deal" - feel free to email me and be sure to check out my bio page at findalesson.com." - Matthew Reel, Teaching Professional California "Kevin: find a reputable club maker in your area that builds component clubs. He/she will take your measurements, watch your swing, and build a set to your specs. In our area, you need not even purchase a full set. They also offer guarantees on parts and labor. Costs vary according to shaft type and material, irons versus woods, and wood material. Do not purchase clubs from someone who works out of their garage or has just retired and is doing this as a hobby. No matter the cost, you are still investing your hard-earned money and you don't want to waste it on an unskilled "custom club fitter". Good Golfing." - Kati Biszantz, Teaching Professional Florida "You need to spend your money on a reputable PGA or LPGA Professional for a lesson. Do some homework. After they establish your club head speed, visually and mechanically, they will know which flex shaft you should have, the most important part of the club. Ask them prior to the lesson if they are up-to-date on equipment. In my opinion, you may want to make a small investment to begin with to see if you really enjoy the game. As a beginner it is most important that you get out and enjoy. The clubs do not really play a big factor until you start hitting the ball solid. Unfortunately or fortunately, this game cannot be bought, (please don't tell any of the manufactures), it's the swing. There is very little difference in the inexpensive beginner sets, which are fine while you develop your swing and start feeling the difference. I hope this helps." - Roland Stafford Golf School Staff Professional Florida "Most any PGA professional will be happy to fit you for a set and help you find something used while your swing finds its own niche." - John Brott, Teaching Professional Missouri "Kevin, as a beginning golfer, get in a beginning golf clinic. Don't buy a set of clubs until someone teaches you how to swing. Then ask your instructor for a recommendation on a set of clubs. I always tell my students to see if they like the game before they invest in a new set of clubs. The facility you take lessons at will have clubs you can use during your lesson." - BJ Miller, Teaching Professional Nevada "See your local professional club builder who should be a club fitter as well. Ask him what he has in stock used. If nothing suitable, get him to fit and make for you a 'Short Set' only. Even before this stage of action, I start my beginners with a loaner (free) #8 Iron and Putter to use while learning the 'Basic Swing'. If they want to go out an play an executive length course, I lend them a III Wood and a Pitching Wedge. Four clubs! That is all you need and want to start. Carrying less makes for less work. Having fewer clubs helps you make easier "Club Selection' decisions. You can play a 450 yard PAR 4 with three 150 yard #8 Iron shots. If the last one is 'perfect',  you will not need your Putter! If you are very close, all that is left is one more smooth and soft 'Stroke'! If you take two Putting Strokes, your are playing 'Bogie Golf'! That is great golf for a starter and do not let any one tell you otherwise! Have fun!" - Karl Fischer, Teaching Professional North Carolina "I would look at purchasing a used set of brand name irons that are cavity back. Look at Ping, Titleist, Callaway and others." - Ben Hynson, Teaching Professional South Carolina "Kevin: You have the right idea of trying to watch your budget and at the same time trying to get a decent set of clubs. Try some of your friends clubs. Sometimes your friends are looking to purchase a new set of clubs and need to sell their old owns first. You never know what you might get a great price.  Also, try some of your local retailers and see if they have a good selection of used clubs.  Sometimes you can get a great deal on a good set of clubs. Unfortunately, there is not a club that is the best for any one golfer. You will have to do some simple research; try clubs until you find a set that feels good and is within your budget." - John Hughes, Teaching Professional Texas "Kevin: Call the area courses and find a pro that fits and builds custom made component clubs. That will get you the best bang for the buck. Good Luck." - Dave Baron, Teaching Professional