Before You Buy Used Clubs

If you’re on a budget or just play a few rounds once in a blue moon, the idea of purchasing your golf clubs used might be an attractive idea. Why spend a lot of money on clubs when you are not even certain how well you’ll play or whether you’re in it for the long haul? Instead of running out and buying a brand new set, many golfers choose to go the used route when making a purchase. If you’re one of them, here are a few tips and ideas to consider before you buy used clubs.

One of the first things you want to check out before you buy used clubs is the condition of the club head. Look for face wear, or a shinny spot usually at the center of the club face. If you find these, it’s best if you put these back.

The lack of well defined groves, or indentations on the club face can greatly affect the ball flight.

The second item that you want to do before you buy used clubs is to check out the shafts. This is the backbone of the club, so it should be straight and true. If you’re looking at graphite shafts, make sure that there are no worn areas or indentations that could cause weakness later on. If you’re looking at steel shafts keep an eye out for rust and dents. Also, before you buy used clubs, make sure you test the torque. Test this by twisting the grip and the head of the club in different directions. If the resistance is weak, so is the club. Also, make sure you look down the steel shaft toward the head. Sometimes used steel golf clubs are bent back into shape.

Another characteristic that you want to make sure you check before you buy used clubs is the condition of the grips. They should be free of tears, splits or worn areas. If you don’t, and it turns out that you have to re-grip the clubs soon after purchase, your adding about $10 per club for the privilege. If you’re on a budget, this can really add up to a nasty extra pinch.

You’ve looked at the club heads, the staffs, and the grips associated with the clubs you want to purchase. Before you buy used clubs, there is one final thing to check out. Take all the clubs out of the bag and look for consistency. If the clubs show similar makes and wear and tear, chances are they were part of an original set. If they are not, chances are you’ll have to replace or repair each one individually adding an unwanted cost.

Before you buy used clubs, it’s always a good idea to test them out first. Hopefully, you’ll be using these clubs for a good long time, so it stands to reason that you’d want to have something that fits you and your style. One trick is to bring a couple of small Wiffle balls with you to use during a few practice swings. If the seller is hesitate to offer you a chance to use the clubs, be very wary. The condition of the clubs might be the reason for their hesitation.

These are but a few of the characteristics and items that you want to check out before you buy used clubs. In the end, the best course of action is to ask lots of questions and try out the used clubs for yourself. It might be a small investment, but it is an investment none the less.