Expert Advice
The Smooth Swing Buying Guide
Everything you need to build a better bag without overspending.
Drivers
A driver is the most exciting club in the bag — and often the most expensive. Pre-owned drivers are one of the best values in golf because technology doesn't change as dramatically as manufacturers would like you to believe.
When buying used, focus on shaft flex and loft over brand loyalty. A 10.5° driver with the right flex will outperform a 9° in the wrong hands every time.
Pro Tip:
Look for drivers 1–2 generations old from major brands — they're 60–70% cheaper with 95% of the performance.
Irons
Irons are the workhorses of your bag. A set of 6 irons in Good condition will cost you a fraction of retail and last years of consistent play.
Game improvement irons (cavity back) are generally better for mid-to-high handicappers. Blade irons suit single-figure players. When buying used, focus on shaft type (steel vs graphite) and lie angle.
Pro Tip:
Buying a mixed set (not a matched set) can save 40% — the clubs still perform, they just don't share a serial number.
Wedges
Wedges wear faster than any other club due to the friction of ball contact. But that also means the used market is full of near-new wedges from golfers who upgraded after one season.
Loft is the key spec: most golfers need a 52° gap wedge, 56° sand wedge, and optionally a 60° lob wedge. Don't overcomplicate it.
Pro Tip:
A slightly worn wedge face can actually provide more spin on some shots. Don't dismiss Fair-condition wedges.
Putters
The putter is the most personal club in the bag. Style (blade vs mallet), length, and feel are subjective — which is why the pre-owned market is perfect for trying different models without commitment.
Length matters most: 33" for shorter players, 34" for most, 35" for tall players. Feel the balance before buying if possible.
Pro Tip:
Scotty Camerons, Ping Anser models, and Odyssey White Hot putters hold their value and performance exceptionally well pre-owned.
Bags
A golf bag is one of the safest pre-owned purchases you can make — the technology doesn't evolve, the wear is easy to assess, and quality bags last decades.
Cart bags are heavier but offer more storage. Stand bags are lighter and versatile. Staff bags are for tour players or serious club fitters.
Pro Tip:
Look for bags with external putter wells and waterproof zippers — they're worth the premium even on the pre-owned market.
Pre-Owned Tips
Buying pre-owned doesn't mean buying blind. At Smooth Swing, every club has been through our 12-point inspection — so you know exactly what you're getting before you buy.
Set a budget, identify the 2–3 clubs you most need to upgrade, and buy the best condition you can afford for those clubs. The rest of the bag can wait.
Pro Tip:
Don't buy a whole bag at once. Identify the weakest link in your current set and start there.