So, after many years off the links, I decided to get back into the game. I went to a pro shop, got my swing evaluated, measured for a set of clubs, and then got smacked with sticker shock for new clubs. So I thought, how about e-bay? When I left the game, e-bay didn't exist. Now, it seemed like a good alternative to the sports stores and clubhouse.
I have had mostly success at this, and thought I would share some things with potential used club buyers. Here goes.
First, make sure you know what you are getting. This may sound silly, but I have a club that I will never use, probably can never sell, and all because I didn't ask one key question: "How long is it?"
The length for most of my woods is 41". Know what your length requirements are, and ask before you buy.
Second, prepare to take some time in putting your set together. I spent nearly six months putting my set together. I shopped e-bay every night. Every night.
On average, with shipping, I paid $60.00-$70.00 for my fairway woods. Some of them were brand new with tags! You can still buy them brand new in the stores for $200.00, so you can see the savings if you are willing to take your time and be diligent.
Third, if you get a nice club from someone, mark them as your favorite, and visit them from time to time to see if they have any more of the clubs you are looking for. Drop them an e-mail. I did, and it got me a club before it listed on e-bay, so I saved even a few more dollars.
I saved number four for last, on purpose. Get on line, and Google, (for example) "best driver, 2005". At the time of this writing, that search pulls up (among others) a Ping G5. Price range from $90.00 used, to $299.00 new. Pretty good savings, right? I'm all for buying a club that's only 36 months old, and saving $200.00!!
These titanium faces are good for 10,000 hits. If you do the math, you can figure out how many rounds of golf someone would have to play to hit a ball that many times. These clubs have many years of life left in them.
Anyway, happy hunting. Hope this helps someone.
I have had mostly success at this, and thought I would share some things with potential used club buyers. Here goes.
First, make sure you know what you are getting. This may sound silly, but I have a club that I will never use, probably can never sell, and all because I didn't ask one key question: "How long is it?"
The length for most of my woods is 41". Know what your length requirements are, and ask before you buy.
Second, prepare to take some time in putting your set together. I spent nearly six months putting my set together. I shopped e-bay every night. Every night.
On average, with shipping, I paid $60.00-$70.00 for my fairway woods. Some of them were brand new with tags! You can still buy them brand new in the stores for $200.00, so you can see the savings if you are willing to take your time and be diligent.
Third, if you get a nice club from someone, mark them as your favorite, and visit them from time to time to see if they have any more of the clubs you are looking for. Drop them an e-mail. I did, and it got me a club before it listed on e-bay, so I saved even a few more dollars.
I saved number four for last, on purpose. Get on line, and Google, (for example) "best driver, 2005". At the time of this writing, that search pulls up (among others) a Ping G5. Price range from $90.00 used, to $299.00 new. Pretty good savings, right? I'm all for buying a club that's only 36 months old, and saving $200.00!!
These titanium faces are good for 10,000 hits. If you do the math, you can figure out how many rounds of golf someone would have to play to hit a ball that many times. These clubs have many years of life left in them.
Anyway, happy hunting. Hope this helps someone.
Guide created: 04/02/08 (updated 12/12/08)
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