Time for some new clubs!
It is the season for new equipment. Each year at this time, I look at my equipment to determine if something needs to be replaced. This year, I am looking at a driver and possible putter. I have not made any definite decisions, but this is the process I use:
- Step 1: Figure out what you want/need.
- Step 2: Research, research, and research. I read the hype of manufactures to see what they say, however, I actually pay attention to the consumer reviews. This is the most important piece of information you will find. People are more than willing to tell you what they think.
- Step 3: Wait for it to come on sale. Check Ebay. Check Kijiji. Check Golftown (or other large franchise stores), check the local pro shop (you would be surprised).
- Step 4: If possible haggle over the price. The local pro shop will lower their price if you make them a reasonable deal.
- Step 5: Purchase the piece of equipment.
- Step 6: Probably the most important step – be happy with your purchase. This is very important!
Using the process, I usually find the best deals available. I am not ready to anything yet, but it will happen soon. As I move forward, maybe you can give me some suggestions. Tell me what driver and putter you use and why you like it? I am all ears!
I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!
The Grateful Golfer 
I would check out the Titleist 915 driver. Might be able to get a deal on the 913. Global golf is a great website for used clubs. The Ping putters are nice. The TR technology looks interesting. I have a traditional Ping putter with a SuperStroke grip. I was fitted for my irons at Golf Town in 2011. I did a lot of research prior and the fitting was what I expected for length and lie. I would like to get fitted for my next driver. Not sure if my current driver fits me for launch angle and spin.
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Mac
Thanks for the tip. I have not decided on any brand right now, but will start with the fitting. I did try the 915 at the golf show and liked it. I also liked Callaway and Taylormade. It will be a tough decision. I look forward to playing a couple rounds with you this year.
Cheers
Jim
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Pingback: Being Fitted for Golf Clubs | The Grateful Golfer
When I was a single digit handicap golfing more than 100 times a year, I was always looking for someway to keep my game improving. It included spending a ton of money on new equipment especially on putters and drivers. Eventually I became convinced that upgrading my equipment seldom helped to improve my handicap significantly. I did buy a new driver last year from a frustrated novice struggling to hit an expensive driver at a local driving range. I was able to quickly flip it to a golfing buddy to make some money on the deal. Practise remains the surest way to improve your game especially under the tutelage of a good instructor. There is no reason to change equipment if you are using clubs suited to your ability. Too many players spend too much money looking for a better game at golf stores.
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Lloyd
Thanks for the comment. I agree, however every few years I change my driver. I find that the zip is gone from the graphite shaft. Your point of changing equipment for the sake of changing is valid, but not the case here.
Cheers
Jim
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Its not just the shaft but the driver face which will lose its spring like affect over time. I think most players are justified to update to a new driver every 3 seasons. If you were properly fitted for irons, they should serve you for 10 years or more.
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Lloyd, I agree. My driver with a graphite shaft is 3 years old. I think, if it had a steel shaft, it would last a bit longer.
cheers
Jim
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Hi Jim, have always used Taylor Made drivers, but would like to try a Callaway, my friend can always out drive me with his. I obviously recommend the White Dragon Putter, but understand you do not like this style of putter. Good Luck with your shopping.
Pete
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Pete
I have used Cobra and lately Callaway. At the golf show, Titlelist and Taylormade were good too. I did think hard about the White Dragon Putter, but head shape does not fit my eye. If it did, I think that would be my putter of choice. I appreciate the comments.
Cheers
Jim
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The driver and putter are such personal choices, its sometimes almost impossible to give advice. E bay is great You can get drivers that are 2 to 3 years old but brand new for as little as 50 bucks. You don’t mind that investment if it doesn’t work out. I really like old putters and the hard feel they give off the clubhead. I don’t like the insert putters. I like to have about 3 putters that I go to that have distinctly different weights.
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Vet
Good advice about buying cheaper clubs to see if I like them. I have an insert putter and like it, but am open to try something new. Thanks for the comment.
Cheers
Jim
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Hi Jim, Do you buy custom fitted or off the shelf? Think it would be in your best interest to a driver that suits you, just a thought! Patrick
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Patrick,
I have always bought off the shelf. Your point is a very good one. I think it might be time to be fitted for a driver. Thanks for the great advice.
Cheers
Jim
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You’re welcome Jim, I am the same as yourself, last set I bought where 2nd hand from ebay in 2003, need a new set this year and got custom fitted last week, now I know my stats so will use these when buying this year! good luck on your choice, mines is Titleist woods and Mizuno irons, always been a blades man but 47yrs old now so might have to go against my beliefs and get cavities 🙂 #Traditionalist
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Patrick,
Thanks very much for your comments. I am going to have get fitted for sure, the rest….time will tell.
Cheers
Jim
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Jim, I agree with Patrick because at your level, you should get professionally fitted. I got fitted for the irons I purchased a couple years ago. The best thing about the fitting is the confidence you have that you’re playing the right sticks. So when it goes wrong out on the course, you know it’s the operator and not the tool. Admit it, during a protracted period of poor ball striking, we’ve all questioned if we’re playing the right equipment. With a fitting, you’ll know you are and can focus on the swing fix.
Good luck with your purchase!
Brian
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Brian
Thanks very much for the advice. Looks like I am going to get fitted. I will update as things progress. I have never had the experience of being fitted; I am looking forward too it.
Cheers
Jim
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Awesome read! I shop the same way! I recently bought a Callaway RAZR X black Driver off eBay!
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Craig
I am keeping my options open. Thanks for the tip.
Cheers
Jim
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I really enjoyed reading this! I’m the same way! I just bought myself a new Callaway RAZR X Black 9.5° driver from eBay! Check out my new blog TheDuckHuntingGolfer!
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Craig
Welcome. I am not sure which driver I would like, but I am not ruling anything out.
Cheers
Jim
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