I am new to golf. I was looking for a set that would not cost a lot of money in case I did not like the game. I was also looking for a set that was of high quality and did not fall apart or greatly affect my game because of the poor quality. I would prefer not to buy new name brand clubs because of price, so I bought used. I want a quality used set that will let me get a good feel for the game without costing a ton of money.

I would like to keep all the irons the same brand. Having the brand for my driver, woods, and hybrids different from my irons would not be an issue for me. Having a different brand of sand wedge and putter would not be a problem either.

Tommy Armour because of the brand and reputation for quality clubs.
Regular Shaft because I am unsure of my full capabilities so I wanted to start with the norm.
Graphite because it is more flexible and should help with distance.

This set of Irons was my first purchase. The set was used, in good condition, and was only $99 on GlobalGolf.com. The set includes irons 3 thru 9 and a pitching wedge. New would probably be around $300.
Total Cost So Far: $99, Total Savings So Far: $200

Graphite shaft, 11.5 degree loft

Graphite again because of the flexibility. I bought the 11.5 degree loft because it will help with getting the ball in the air. As a beginner, getting the ball in the air may be your biggest challenge.

Drivers may be your most expensive purchase. Some new drivers can be $500 or more. I felt the MacGregor MacTec NVG2 was the best bang for the buck. This club new would be $299, used is only $59.99 in mint condition. You can’t beat that!
Total Cost So Far: $158,99, Total Savings So Far: $440

Same reasons as my driver choice – graphite, regular shafts. The quality to price ratio can’t be beat. I chose a 3 wood with 15 degree loft, $29.99 in very good condition (new $199). This was my only wood because I will be purchasing 2 hybrids (2 and 5). A #2 hybrid is very close to a 5 wood.
Total Cost So Far: $188.98, Total Savings So Far: $610

For consistency, I would like to keep my hybrids MacGregors as well. Graphite and regular stiffness to go with the rest of my clubs. The #2 hybrid was orig $199, used was only $29.99 and the #5 Hybrid was $199 new, used was only $34.99.
Total Cost So Far: $253.96, Total Savings So Far: $945

I need to add a sand wedge and putter to my bag. Lastly, I will need a bag. I am not too concerned if the sand wedge and putter are Tommy Armour, MacGregor, or a different brand. Switching brands with these 2 clubs will most likely not affect my game.

Cleveland is known for excellent wedges and Odyssey is known for excellent putters. The wedge is 56 degrees and has a steel shaft. The wedge new would be $49.99, used in very good condition $29.99. The putter also has a steel shaft and new would be $39.99 and used in very good condition $29.99.
Total Cost So Far: $313.94, Total Savings So Far: $975

For me, I am not too interested flashy bells and whistles for my bag. I am sure when I get better, I will change my mind. I found an inexpensive stand bag for only $39.99, normally $59.99.

Iron Set Tommy Armour
Driver MacGregor
3 Wood MacGregor
2 Hybrid MacGregor
5 Hybrid MacGregor
Sand Wedge Cleveland
Putter Odyssey
Bag RJ Sports