Buying Clubs for the Next 5 Years

I want to purchase a driver, iron set, and putter that will last me for the next five years. I used a cheap all in one club set by Top Flite enough to get a good understanding of my game and am ready to go middle range in my equipment. I shoot low to mid 90's, so I am in no way, shape, or form an excellent player. I will need clubs that are forgiving and are easy to hit. I have no problems buying used or new last years' models. I want equipment that is proven quality and will improve my game as I continue to receive lessons.

I would like to keep my total price under $500.

Could I get some ideas for a driver, iron set, and putter?

My suggestion - if you want to get a Driver, set of irons and a putter for $500 or less... Is to go do one of the following:

1.) Go to a big box retailer and buy used clubs off the rack.

2.) Go to Ebay and buy used clubs (make sure you check the sellers rating)

3.) Look on Craigslist for deals on used clubs (I had a buddy who bought an entire set of Callaway irons which retailed for $1K plus for $350 a few years back... Deals can be found if you look around enough

Lastly... If you can't find anything at one of these three places that interest you... Go to the local driving range and pro shops and tell them what you are looking for.  People talk and they may know of someone who is looking to sell their clubs.  You'd be surprised what kind of clubs/deals you can find just by talking to people and networking.

If you shoot in the low 90s, isn't your HDCP higher than 10?

Get clubs that fit your body. You're likely a 20+ handicap so your height and arms are more important than your swing with now. Go to a big box store and find out what length and lie you SHOULD have then check their used stuff. If you can not find your size, check out last year's and older models at someplace like RockBottomGolf.com Looks for game improvement stuff but, any clubs that fit will serve you better than clubs that do not fit but are nice and new.

All else being equal, Adams has nice hybrid/iron blended sets at fair prices. It is what I'd get a 20+ handicap friend who wants to get better.