Golf Forums - New versus 2nd hand 'brand' name clubs

Hello fellow golphers,

I would like to know everyone's opinion on the quality of a set of irons depending on the usage of the clubs. My basic question is.... are used brand name clubs of any lesser quality than new brand name clubs?  I'm trying to relate this to a pool table whereas after a while the rails of the pool table become "dead" and less springy. Does anyone think that used brand name irons loses that "spring" when you make contact in the face?  I'm really interested b/c I have a chance to purchase a set of used Cleveland TA4 irons (with a few scatches on the cavity backs for around $100 and wanted to know if it's worth it. The irons look to be in really good shape. I may have to replace the grips but not a worry. Thanks all for your advice.

-- 16/08/2009 15:57:36: post edited by TheSocialGolfer.

Hi Larry,

My Taylormade irons are 7 years old now and still going strong.

Ignoring the grips (which are the only 'consumable' item on a club anyway) I don't think the shafts lose their springyness and it's obvious to see any damage to the club faces.

So, if they look good, don't appear to have been repaired and suit your swing, Cleveland are a good club and the TA4 is pretty new and has excellent reviews. I'd say $100 seems a bargain.
 

Guys,

Had I not recently bought a set of AP2's (brand new), I would probably have agreed with Pete. However, my previous set (DCI Black Oversize) were over 10 years old and there is a distinct difference in the depth / sharpness of the grooves on the face of my new set versus the old ones. I do believe the face will wear over time, dependant on use, and this will affect the "action" you can put on the ball.

For me, "action" probably is best translated as the ball will have less spin when it is knifed across the green from inside 30 yards as the lower two grooves on my wedge were probably quite worn from the use they were subjected to.

I would also check the condition of the hosel.. I would reckon my old clubs would show a fair bit of wear and tear, maybe even dimpled, as a result of ball contact. Once you've got "back to back Shermans" in your arsenal, you'll understand what I mean.

Seriously... the face does wear dependant on use..

dg