Golf clubs for newcomers to the sport

If you're a golfing beginner, you'll probably have limited knowledge about golf clubs, so how do you know which ones to buy?

If you are considering buying some golfing equipment, it is likely that you've already had a taste of the game in some form or other; maybe you have had a go at pitch-and-putt or mini golf. So, if you're looking to buy your first real set of golf clubs, where do you begin?

Admittedly the choice out there is vast and buying new clubs can be almost as mind boggling as buying a new car. But like buying a car, most of us don't buy the top-of-the range Mercedes, and the same applies when buying golf clubs. You don't have to have the best and nor do they have to be brand new.

Traditional golf clubs or blades have a smaller area for good contact or �sweet spot' � making it difficult for the beginner. The newer �cavity-backed' clubs are designed to be more forgiving, with the weight distributed more evenly around the clubface, effectively increasing the size of the hitting area. This means that they are more suitable for beginners; even if you don't quite get your shot right, it won't be quite as distressing as it would have been if you had used an older-style club.

The clubs

Each golf club has a different use around the course, whether teeing off at the start with a driver, or trying to dig your ball out of the bunker with your sand wedge.

• A typical set will consist of: woods, irons (including wedges) and a putter

• Each club is numbered, (woods are numbered one to five, and irons numbered one to nine) with lower numbered clubs meant to send the ball further

• Each club is angled to a differing degree, with a low numbered club having its face angled at a lesser degree from the vertical than a higher numbered club. For example: a two iron is angled at 18 degrees while a nine iron is angled at 46 degrees and the sand wedge at 58 degrees

• The higher the number of golf club, the greater the backspin on the ball � meaning it won't run on as far when landing

• The putter is the flat faced club which is used on the green to attempt to finally put the ball in the hole

• If competing, you are generally allowed a maximum of 14 clubs in your bag

A division of Confidence Sporting Goods, inc., the famous manufacturer from Palm Springs , California , we have been making quality sporting goods for 35 years. We sell a huge range of sports equipment, including golf clubs. Because we sell directly to you, you can expect to save up to 70% on normal retail prices when buying from us. To order, phone 1-800-603-0004.