Buying pre-owned golf clubs can be one of the smartest moves a golfer makes. You get excellent performance for a fraction of the retail price - and sometimes even find rare or premium models that are no longer sold new.
But not all second-hand clubs are created equal. Understanding what to look for - and how to judge condition - will save you money and help ensure you get gear that performs well on the course.
Whether you’re a beginner building your first set or a seasoned player hunting for your dream clubs, this guide will help you navigate the second-hand market with confidence.
Why Consider Second-Hand Golf Clubs?
There are many perks to buying used:
Better value for money - get quality clubs at lower prices
Access to rare or discontinued models - including Japan domestic or older premium sets
Sustainable choice - extend the life of clubs and reduce waste
Ideal for improving golfers - you can upgrade more affordably as your game grows
But there are some things to watch out for - like condition, wear patterns, shafter flex, and genuine grading. Here’s how to do it right.
The Most Important Things to Inspect
1. Clubhead Condition
Check for:
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Dents or deep gouges
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Excessive paint loss
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Rust or corrosion (especially on irons)
Minor surface scratches are normal - but anything that affects performance or ball contact should be avoided.
2. Shaft & Grip Wear
Look for:
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Shaft bends or dents - can drastically affect performance
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Grip condition - worn grips should be factored into the price (and replaced)
New grips add cost, so factor that into the overall value.
3. Loft, Lie & Flex
Make sure the lofts fit your bag and swing profile. If possible, check that the shaft flex matches your swing speed - older used clubs sometimes have stiff shafts that don’t fit all golfers.
4. Playability Over Aesthetics
Small cosmetic marks aren’t a performance issue - so don’t let surface wear scare you off. Clubs are meant to be played! Focus on structural integrity, alignment, and feel.
Understanding Club Condition: Our Grading System
To help buyers make informed decisions, every second-hand club we list uses a consistent, transparent grading system. That way, you can tell at a glance how close a club is to new condition — and what you’re paying for.
Here’s how our grading works:
| Grade | What It Means |
|---|---|
| N – New | These clubs/sets have never been previously played. |
| A – Like New | Excellent condition. These clubs/sets have been hit previously, but only for a very few shots. Marks are barely visible and it looks very similar to a brand new product. |
| B – Very Good | Some small scratches and marks are visible on the surface, but they are difficult to identify from a distance. |
| C – Good | Many small scratches and ball marks can be found on and around these clubs, and some significant scratches and paint chips may be visible, none of which affects playability. |
You can read more about our club grading criteria here:
👉 https://www.risingsunclubs.com.au/pages/club-grading
This system gives you confidence that what you see is what you get — no surprises, just honest condition reporting.
Tips When Buying Second-Hand Online
Here’s how to shop smart online:
1. Check Multiple Angles
Look for multiple photos - clubfaces, soles, grips and shafts.
2. Ask for Measurements
Sometimes sellers list:
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Lie angle
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Shaft length
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Grip size
These details matter - especially for irons and wedges.
3. Compare Prices
Use online marketplaces and golf stores to judge whether a deal is genuinely good value.
Where to Shop for Quality Used Clubs in Australia
Here are some trusted places Australians buy second-hand golf clubs:
GolfMate - One of Australia’s most popular pre-owned golf gear platforms.
🔗 https://www.golfmate.pro
Second-hand options on major golf stores - Some larger retailers include used sections alongside new stock.
Rising Sun Clubs - We source high-quality clubs - including rare imported gear — and every club is graded clearly so you know exactly what condition you’re getting.
Start browsing our current second-hand golf club collection here:
👉 https://www.risingsunclubs.com.au/pages/club-grading
Final Thoughts
Second-hand golf clubs can be a game-changer - financially and performance-wise - if you know what you’re doing. Using a reliable grading system (like the one above), checking condition details closely, and understanding what matters most on the course will help you make smart choices.
Whether you’re upgrading your set affordably or searching for that rare driver or putter you’ve always wanted, the second-hand market is full of opportunities.
Happy golfing!