Top Flite Top Flite XL Boxed 13 Piece Set

This was my first set, and got me from an intial 30 handicap to 19 (it's now my second, travel set). Excellent starter set, not just because of the price ($199 complete). Clubs and bag are very well made (TF now owned by Callaway). Stand bag has four strong zip pockets. Clubs included are Driver, 3 wood, 4 and 5 hybrids, 6-9 irons, + wedge. Everything you need to get to the range, or to your first tee. [The XL700 set (?) costes $100 more but includes a 5 wood and another wedge]. The clubs feel great, are nicely weighted, and are very forgiving.

As an absolute beginner, I was hitting the driver approx 220', and the 9 iron approx 90'.Whilst using the set the only things I changed were the putter (purely aesthetic - I don't care for 'mallet' heads), then, once I had a few rounds under my belt, I bought some Cleveland Black Pearl wedges (44*, 52*, 58*). The more experience I've gained the more I began to understand equiment - what works for me, and how to work my around a course etc. It's because of that better understanding that I've now moved to upgrade my gear, to a Diablo Octane driver and woods and Diablo Edge irons. I didn't trade the TopFlites though, nor will I - they're an excellent set, and helped me enjoy my golf whilst I was figuring out how to play.

All in all, this is an outstanding set that I would recommend to any beginner - irrespective of age, gender, or ability. When you don't know a loft from a lie, or a hosel from a hybrid, don't try to buy clubs individually to start playing - buy this set - not only are they tremendous value, and perfectly matched, they'll help you enjoy the game whilst you're learning... And that's what really matters.