What Is In A Complete Golf Club Set For Beginners

A complete golf club set typically includes 14 clubs: one driver, two fairway woods, six irons, two wedges, one hybrid, and a putter. These clubs are carefully chosen to cover all shot types from long drives off the tee to short chips onto the green.

For beginner golfers, understanding the purpose of each club is key to building confidence and improving your game. 

If you’re buying your first set or just curious about what’s inside a full bag, this guide breaks down everything in plain terms, using real course experience and up-to-date gear insights.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through what’s in a golf set, what is in a complete golf club set, and how to build or buy the right set for your game, if you’re just getting started or looking to improve.

Let’s break it down step by step.

What Does a Full Set of Golf Clubs Include for Beginners

A Simple Breakdown of the 14 Standard Clubs in a Golf Bag

If you’re new to golf and wondering what’s inside a full set of clubs, you’re not alone. As a pro who’s helped many beginners get started, I can tell you, understanding each club in your bag is one of the easiest ways to improve faster.

The USGA rule allows every player to carry up to 14 clubs. But what do those clubs actually do? And why are there so many?

Let’s break down the types of golf clubs in a complete set, what they’re for, and when to use them.

Driver – The Longest Club in a Full Golf Set

(Used for Distance Off the Tee on Par-4 and Par-5 Holes)

The driver is the first club most people think of. It has the largest clubhead, the longest shaft, and it’s designed to hit the ball as far as possible from the tee. 

I tell beginners to think of it as their “power club.” When hit right, it sets the tone for the entire hole.

Fairway Woods – Best for Long Shots After the Tee

(Includes 3-Wood and 5-Wood in Most Golf Club Sets)

Fairway woods are next in line for distance. You’ll use them when you’re far from the green but not on the tee. They’re great for second shots on long holes or tee shots on shorter ones. 

Most standard sets include a 3-wood and a 5-wood, which offer a nice balance of distance and control.

Hybrid Golf Clubs – Easier Alternative to Long Irons

(Ideal for Beginners Who Struggle With 3- or 4-Irons)

Hybrids are game-changers, especially for new golfers. They combine the forgiveness of woods with the accuracy of irons. 

If you’ve ever struggled to hit a 4-iron cleanly, a hybrid will feel much easier. Most complete sets include at least one hybrid club, usually replacing a 3-iron or 4-iron.

Irons – Your Go-To Clubs for Fairway and Approach Shots

(Standard Set Includes 6 Irons: 4-Iron to 9-Iron)

Irons are used for everything from tee shots to the short game. 

The lower-numbered irons (4, 5, 6) hit the ball farther, while the higher-numbered ones (7, 8, 9) are easier to control and better for shorter approach shots.

These clubs are numbered for a reason:

• 4-Iron to 6-Iron = long irons, for distance

• 7-Iron to 9-Iron = mid to short irons, for accuracy and higher ball flight

Most complete golf club sets include six irons.

Wedges – Essential Clubs for Your Short Game

(Pitching Wedge and Sand Wedge Are Usually Included)

Wedges help you get close to the hole when you’re near the green.

• The pitching wedge (PW) is great for short approach shots.

• The sand wedge (SW) is made to escape bunkers and soft lies.

Many sets also allow room for a lob wedge (LW) later on for short, high shots that stop fast.

Putter – The Most Used Club in Every Round

(Helps You Sink the Ball on the Green)

Putters don’t hit the ball far. They roll it. You’ll use your putter more than any other club, so it’s important to get comfortable with it. 

If you like blade or mallet styles, make sure it feels steady in your hands.

Optional Clubs to Complete or Customize Your Golf Bag

(Like Extra Hybrids, Gap Wedges, or Lob Wedges)

Some players prefer to swap a long iron for an extra hybrid. Others like to add a gap wedge or lob wedge to improve control around the green. These clubs aren’t required, but they can help round out your bag as your game improves.

Summary: What Are the 14 Clubs in a Standard Golf Bag

Here’s a simple list of the clubs you’ll usually find in a complete set:

If you’re just starting out, you don’t have to use all 14 clubs right away. Focus on learning what each one does. Then grow into your set as your game improves. 

The right club at the right time makes the game much easier and a lot more fun.

What Are the Types of Irons in a Complete Golf Club Set

If you’re starting out in golf, the irons in your bag will be the clubs you use most. As a golf coach, I always tell new players that irons are their “everyday work tools”. 

They’re used for approach shots, fairway shots, and getting close to the green.

So it’s important to understand what types of irons come in a complete set, and what each one is designed to do.

What Irons Come in a Complete Golf Club Set

Most complete sets include six irons, usually numbered 4 through 9, plus a pitching wedge. These irons are designed for different shot distances and control levels.

Mid-Irons – 5-Iron, 6-Iron, 7-Iron

(Built for Distance With More Control Than Woods)

Mid-irons are the go-to clubs for medium-to-long approach shots, usually from 130 to 170 yards for beginners.
Here’s how I use them:

• 5-Iron – longer shots from the fairway

• 6-Iron – a great balance of distance and height

• 7-Iron – the most-used iron for beginners and one of the easiest to learn

Mid-irons are great for learning swing tempo, ball flight, and distance control.

Short-Irons – 8-Iron and 9-Iron

(Built for Accuracy and Soft Landings Near the Green)

Short irons are easier to control and are designed to help you hit the ball higher with more accuracy and spin. You’ll use these when you’re closer to the green — about 100 to 130 yards out.

They’re also great for learning how to stop the ball quickly and aim for tight spots near the flag.

Pitching Wedge – Often Included With Iron Sets

(Great for Short Approaches and Chipping)

Most iron sets include a pitching wedge (PW), even though it’s technically a wedge, not an iron. 

This club is key for short approach shots, bump-and-run chips, and anything inside 100 yards. It’s a perfect bridge between your short irons and specialty wedges like the sand wedge or lob wedge.

Cavity-Back Irons vs Blade Irons – Which Is Best for Beginners

If you’re buying your first set of irons, you’ll want cavity-back irons. These have:

• A larger sweet spot

• More forgiveness on off-center hits

• Easier launch and higher ball flight

Blade irons are smaller and harder to hit consistently. They’re built for pros who want maximum control, not beginners who need help with accuracy and distance.

From my experience teaching hundreds of beginners, cavity-backs are the clear winner. They’ll help you strike the ball more cleanly, even if your swing isn’t perfect yet.

Start by getting to know your 7-iron and 9-iron. They’re your best tools for learning the golf swing. Once you feel comfortable, the other irons will start to feel natural too.

How to Know What You’re Actually Getting in the Set

When shopping for your first golf set, here’s what to do:

• Always count the number of clubs listed (not just the “piece” total)

• Look for club types: Driver, Woods, Hybrid, Irons, Wedges, Putter

• Check if it includes a bag and headcovers

• Don’t assume a 14-piece set = 14 clubs

If you’re aiming to get close to a full set of clubs, focus on listings that say “complete 14-club set” or clearly list 14 individual clubs.

Golf Set Size Comparison Chart

Reference Note:
Golf sets labeled “12-piece,” “13-piece,” or “14-piece” often count accessories like headcovers and the golf bag as part of the total. 

Should You Buy a Complete Set of Golf Clubs or Build Your Own

Best Option for Beginners vs Intermediate Golfers Explained

As a golf coach, I’ve helped hundreds of new players get started, and this question always comes up:

“Should I buy a full golf club set, or should I build my own?”

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but based on your skill level and goals, one choice will likely work better than the other.

Buying a Complete Golf Club Set – Best for Beginners

(Simple, Cost-Effective, and Ready to Play)

If you’re just starting out, I strongly recommend buying a complete beginner golf set. Here’s why:

Pros of Buying a Full Set:

• Saves money – complete sets cost far less than buying clubs one by one

• Everything matches – clubs are built to work together

• Ready out of the box – includes a bag, putter, driver, irons, and wedges

• Great for learning – most sets are forgiving and beginner-friendly

Popular options like Callaway Strata, Wilson Profile SGI, or Tour Edge Bazooka are designed specifically to help new players hit better shots right away.

Real advice from experience:
I’ve seen too many beginners get stuck trying to mix and match used clubs. 

It slows down their learning. A full set keeps it simple and helps you focus on the swing, not the gear.

Building Your Own Golf Club Set – Better for Intermediate Players

(Custom Fit, Higher Performance, Long-Term Value)

Once you’ve played for a while and know your swing speed, strengths, and weaknesses, it might be time to build your own set.

Pros of Building Your Own Set:

• Custom fitting – get clubs matched to your height, grip, and swing speed

• Pick higher-end brands – choose the shafts, heads, and lofts that suit you

• Upgrade gradually – keep the clubs you like and swap the ones you don’t

• More control over feel and performance

I built my own set after my first two years. It gave me better distance, accuracy, and confidence, but I wouldn’t recommend starting that way unless you already understand your game.

What is The Average Cost of a Full Set of Golf Clubs

A Realistic Golf Club Cost Breakdown for Beginners and Intermediate Players

One of the most common questions I hear as a coach is:

“How much should I spend on a full set of golf clubs?”

The truth is, the price can vary a lot, depending on your skill level, if the clubs are fitted to your body and swing, and what brands you go for. 

I’ve seen sets as low as $300 and as high as $3,000.

Let’s break it down so you know what to expect.

Beginner Golf Club Set Price – Budget Range ($300–$600)

If you’re just getting started, you can buy a complete beginner golf set, including the bag and clubs, for around $300 to $600.

What you’ll get:

• 10–12 clubs (including driver, woods, irons, wedges, putter)

• Lightweight stand or cart bag

• Forgiving designs for easier hits

Good brands at this level:
Callaway Strata, Wilson SGI, Tour Edge Bazooka

These are great for learning the game without spending too much.

Mid-Range Golf Sets – Semi-Fitted or Upgraded ($600–$1,000)

Once you’ve been playing for a while and want a better feel or performance, you can go for a mid-range set. These often include:

• Higher-quality materials

• Better shaft options (steel or graphite, flex matched to your swing)

• Slightly more personalized fit

This is the range many of my intermediate students move into after 1–2 years of playing regularly.

Premium and Fully Fitted Golf Sets – Custom Builds ($1,200–$3,000+)

If you want a custom-fitted golf club set, expect to spend at least $1,200 to $3,000 or more. These sets are built specifically for your:

• Height and wrist-to-floor measurement

• Swing speed and tempo

• Shot shape and launch angle

You’ll also get premium heads and shafts, often from brands like Titleist, TaylorMade, Ping, Mizuno, or PXG.

What About Club Fitting Costs

Custom fitting sessions are usually priced separately. Most fitting studios or golf shops charge:

• $50–$150 for an iron or driver fitting

• $250–$400 for a full bag fitting
  Some retailers include this for free if you buy the clubs from them.

If you’re just testing the game, start with a beginner set. But if you’re serious about playing long-term, investing in better-fitted clubs can really improve your consistency and distance.

Golf Club Set Price Comparison by Skill Level

Optional Fitting Session Costs (If Not Included)

Reference Note:
This pricing guide reflects typical market rates based on current listings and my experience as a coach fitting players at different levels. 

How to Choose Golf Clubs Based on Your Height

A Simple Guide to Golf Club Length and Fit for All Body Sizes

If you’re just getting into golf, you might be wondering:

“Do golf clubs come in different sizes for different heights?”

As a coach, I can tell you, yes, they do. And choosing the right size makes a big difference in how easy it is to hit the ball.

Let me show you how to find the right club length for your height and what to look for when buying or getting fitted.

Why Golf Club Length and Fit Matter for Different Heights

Every golfer has a different body type, and that affects how they hold and swing a club. If the club is too short, you’ll bend over too much. If it’s too long, you’ll stand too upright and lose control.

That’s why we don’t guess — we use height and wrist-to-floor measurements to pick the right club length and lie angle.

Step 1: Measure Your Height and Wrist-to-Floor Distance

To get started, you’ll need two measurements:

1. Your height (in inches or cm) – measure without shoes.

2. Your wrist-to-floor measurement – stand straight, arms relaxed at your side, and measure the distance from your wrist (where your hand meets your arm) to the floor.

These two numbers will tell you if you need standard-length clubs, longer clubs, or shorter clubs.

Golf Club Length Chart by Height and Wrist-to-Floor

Step 2: Understand Lie Angle – How the Club Sits at Impact

Lie angle is the angle between the shaft and the ground when the club is at address. 

If you’re tall and use short clubs, the toe of the club will dig into the ground, causing miss-hits to the right. If you’re shorter and use long clubs, you might hit the eft more often.

Adjusting the lie angle can fix this. Most beginners don’t need to worry much, but it’s important once your swing becomes consistent.

Step 3: Consider Custom Fitting If You’re Serious About Playing

If you’re planning to play often or want to improve quickly, a professional club fitting is 100% worth it. At a fitting session, they’ll:

• Measure your swing

• Fit you for the right shaft length and flex

• Adjust lie angles based on your stance and swing path

• Recommend ideal clubhead and grip size

Custom fitting can cost $50–$300, but it pays off if you’re playing regularly and want better results fast.

What Is the Difference Between Mens And Women’s Golf Sets

A Golf Pro’s Guide to Choosing the Right Set Based on Gender and Swing Speed

A lot of beginners, both men and women, ask me this early on:

“What’s the actual difference between a men’s and women’s golf set?”

It’s a great question, because the clubs may look similar, but they’re built differently to match body size, strength, and swing speed. 

As someone who coaches both male and female players, I’ve seen how using the right set makes a big difference, especially for beginners.

Let’s break it down clearly.

Shaft Weight and Flex – Women’s Clubs Are Lighter and More Flexible

(Built for Slower Swing Speeds and Better Launch)

Most women’s golf clubs have lighter graphite shafts and more flexible flex ratings (usually labeled “L” for Ladies). This helps with:

• Generating clubhead speed more easily

• Getting the ball in the air

• Reducing strain on the hands and arms

Men’s clubs often use stiffer shafts (Regular or Stiff flex), which are better suited for stronger, faster swings.

Club Length – Women’s Golf Clubs Are Shorter by Design

(To Fit Shorter Heights and Arm Lengths)

The average women’s golf club is about 1 inch shorter than a men’s club. This makes it easier for women to:

• Maintain better posture at setup

• Hit the ball cleanly with more control

• Avoid reaching too far or bending too much

If a woman uses clubs that are too long, it can lead to off-center hits and poor swing mechanics.

Loft – Women’s Clubs Often Have Higher Loft Angles

(Helps Get the Ball Up in the Air Easier)

Since many female golfers swing with slightly less speed, club manufacturers add extra loft to help launch the ball higher.
For example:

• A woman’s driver might have 12°–14° of loft

• A men’s driver typically has 9°–11.5° loft

Higher loft means the ball flies higher with less effort, which is helpful for longer carry and softer landings.

Grip Size and Bag Design – Made for Comfort and Fit

(Smaller Hands and Lighter Bags)

Most women’s golf clubs come with:

• Smaller grip sizes for better hand control

• Lighter golf bags with thinner shoulder straps

• Often more color/style options in the bag design

Men’s grips are usually thicker and designed for larger hands, while the bags tend to be heavier and built for strength over weight savings.

I’ve coached many women who struggled until they switched to a properly fitted women’s set, instantly improving their ball flight and comfort. 

The key isn’t just gender. It’s about finding clubs that match your swing speed, height, and strength.

And by the way: if you’re a very tall woman or a shorter man, it’s okay to try either set, the best fit wins.

What Is a Half Set of Golf Clubs

A Simple Breakdown of What’s Included in a 6–7 Club Golf Set

A half set of golf clubs typically includes 6 or 7 essential clubs. It’s designed to reduce weight and simplify choices, making it ideal for walking rounds, junior players, or budget-conscious beginners.

What Does a Half Golf Set Usually Include

A standard half set often comes with:

• 1 Driver or Fairway Wood

• 1 Hybrid or Mid-Iron (like a 5 or 6 Iron)

• 1 Short Iron (usually 8 or 9 Iron)

• 1 Pitching Wedge

• 1 Sand Wedge (optional)

• 1 Putter

• 1 Lightweight Golf Bag

Some sets may swap out a wedge or a hybrid depending on the brand.

Benefits of Using a Half Set in Golf

• Lighter to carry – ideal for walking golfers

• Less decision-making improves focus for beginners

• Cheaper than full sets – a more affordable way to start

• Helps juniors and seniors manage fewer clubs

Who Should Use a Half Set in Golf Play

• New golfers learning the basics

• Juniors or seniors with slower swing speeds

• Walkers who prefer carrying a lighter bag

• Casual players who play infrequently and don’t need 14 clubs

What Does a Beginner Golf Bag Setup Look Like

A Simple Guide to What Clubs and Accessories Beginners Should Carry

If you’re new to golf, knowing what to keep in your bag can help you feel more prepared and less overwhelmed. 

The key is to keep things simple while covering the basics you’ll actually use on the course.

Basic Golf Club Layout for Beginners

Most beginner bags include 7–10 clubs, spaced out for distance and ease of use. A simple setup looks like this:

• Driver for tee shots

• 5-Wood or Hybrid – for long fairway shots

• 7-Iron and 9-Iron – for medium approach shots

• Pitching Wedge – for short game

• Sand Wedge – for bunker shots or chips

• Putter – for putting on the green

If your set has more clubs (like 6-iron, 8-iron, or a second wedge), organize them by number in the bag, from longest (top) to shortest (bottom).

Golf Bag Essentials Every Beginner Should Carry

Besides clubs, here’s what I recommend all new golfers keep in their bag:

• Golf balls (at least 6–10 per round)

• Tees (short and long tees)

• Glove (for grip and hand comfort)

• Towel (for cleaning clubs and hands)

• Rangefinder or GPS app (optional, helps with distance)

• Divot repair tool and ball marker

• Water bottle and snack

What to Avoid in a Beginner’s Golf Bag

• Don’t overload your bag with unused gear

• Don’t carry too many clubs if you’re still learning distances

• Avoid carrying multiple old balls or random gear that adds weight

The best beginner golf bag setup is light, organized, and practical. Stick to the essentials, and focus more on practicing your swing than packing too many tools.

FAQs

What does a full set of golf clubs include?

A full set of golf clubs includes 14 clubs: one driver, two fairway woods (typically a 3-wood and 5-wood), one hybrid, six irons (usually 4 through 9), three wedges (pitching, sand, and lob), and one putter. This setup gives golfers every tool needed for long, mid, short, and putting shots.

What are the typical 14 clubs in a golf bag?

The typical 14 clubs in a golf bag are a driver, 3-wood, 5-wood, one hybrid, irons from 4 to 9, a pitching wedge, a sand wedge, a lob wedge, and a putter. This combination covers all distance ranges and is allowed under USGA rules for any round of golf.

What are the 7 essential golf clubs?

The 7 essential golf clubs for beginners are a driver, 5-wood or hybrid, 7-iron, 9-iron, pitching wedge, sand wedge, and a putter. These clubs are enough to play a full round and cover most common golf shots, making them ideal for learning without overwhelming new players.

What is a 14-piece golf set?

A 14-piece golf set often includes 10 to 12 actual clubs, plus accessories like a golf bag and headcovers to make up the total count. It does not always mean 14 golf clubs. Always check what’s inside the box, as many beginner sets use “14-piece” as a packaging term.

Does the putter count in the 14 clubs?

Yes, the putter counts toward the 14-club limit allowed in golf. According to the USGA rules, any club used during play,  including drivers, irons, wedges, and the putter, must be included in the total of 14 clubs carried in a golf bag during a round.

How much does a full set of fitted golf clubs cost?

A full set of fitted golf clubs can cost between $1,200 and $3,000 or more. Beginner sets usually cost $300–$600, while mid-range semi-fitted sets range from $600–$1,000. Club fitting sessions can add $100–$400, depending on whether they include a full bag or just a few clubs.

What clubs should every golfer have?

Every golfer should have a driver, one or two fairway woods or hybrids, a set of irons (usually 5 to 6), two wedges (pitching and sand), and a putter. This setup ensures good coverage across all types of golf shots, from tee to green, for players at any skill level.

What does a half set of golf clubs consist of?

A half set of golf clubs usually includes 6 or 7 clubs: one driver or fairway wood, one or two irons (such as a 5 and 9 iron), a pitching wedge, a sand wedge, and a putter. It’s a lighter, more affordable setup that works well for beginners, juniors, and walking golfers.

Final Thoughts – What’s the Right Golf Club Set for You

The right golf club set depends on your skill level and goals. If you’re a beginner, start with a complete set of 7–10 clubs that covers the basics: a driver, a few irons, wedges, and a putter. These are easier to use and more affordable.

If you’re an intermediate or casual player, consider upgrading individual clubs based on your needs, such as adding a hybrid or improving your wedge game.

If you’re a serious golfer, invest in a custom-fitted set built around your swing speed, height, and playing style. Fitted clubs offer better control, distance, and consistency.

Start simple, learn your game, then upgrade with purpose.

Let me know if you’d like to link this to a starter set guide or fitting checklist.

Golf Clubs Explained for Beginners

Posts References:

The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Golf Club Sets
How Many Golf Clubs Are In A Set