[Nathans_Dad]

I'll ignore all the golf haters on the thread, lol.

First step is to get in touch with a good instructor. I would do this even before you bought a single piece of equipment. Talk with them over the phone or set up a quick 30 minute session for them to talk to you about what you want out of the game and recommend some clubs for you.

I would recommend going with a middle of the line set to start. By that I mean irons that will cost you less than $500 for the set. There are lots of good manufacturers out there for that price, I played with Tommy Armour clubs for 10 years, they retail for $199 for a full set of irons. Driver should cost you $150-$200. Don't fall into the trap of buying the titanium 460 cc driver, you won't notice a difference in the equipment anyway.

I would stay away from the super cheap clubs personally, like the Nicklaus clubs that cost $300 for a full set, irons, woods, putter, etc. They're ok clubs, but I think you will outgrow them quickly.

Another great resource is looking at a good set of used clubs. You can often get great clubs at serious discounts that have been used for a season or two. See if there is a used club dealer in your area or try eBay.

Lastly, learn the game and the etiquette of the game. You should start out with putting and chipping and then move over to the full shots. Again, your instructor will guide you here. I don't suggest trying to play until you have spent a good amount of time on the range. Again, ask your instructor, often you can set up a playing lesson where they will go out with you and help you on the course.

I've been playing golf for over 20 years now, it is the only hobby that I continue to come back to. I've tried R/C airplanes, wooden ship models, computer gaming, scuba diving, fishing, boating...I always come back to golf.