Bought a basic starter set of clubs about 2 years ago, and now am looking to slowly upgrade a few clubs. I've filled in the gaps with clubs I didn't have already, so this is the next step. I know there's a lot of golfers here, any advice on which clubs I should start with that I'll see the biggest difference? Not looking to go crazy or win the Masters, just lots of golf with friends
Go get fitted. Shaft and head combinations make a big difference considering swing speed, handicap etc.. How the head looks to you at address is important too. What looks good to me may not appeoverhanging.
This is the right answer. Getting fitting is a basic step nowadays.
Realistically first thing you can do to get lower scores is get better at putting. Every hole bases par off of two putts. Learning speed and distance gets you a "par" on every green. Find a putter that fits your eye and you feel comfortable using.
But...........you probably want some advice on woods and irons.
Getting a driver or 3-wood which fits your swing is crucial to good scoring. Just getting a ball in play 175-200 yards off the tee will dramatically improve your score and your in-game experience. If you can hit it further all the more power to you. Maybe even a hybrid.
Next work on your short irons and wedges. Find clubs which you can hit and manipulate from 125 and in to the hole.
Then work on mid irons. Many golfers will tell you a 7-iron or 8-iron is their favorite club. Many teachers have beginner golfers learn how to swing using those clubs.
Last thing is your long irons. Truth be told, if you are above a 15 handicapper you shouldn't ever be taking a 200 yard swing from the fairway. Shot dispersion is massive and probability of topped shots or wide left and right is high. Just take a 130-150 swing and then get on the green with next swing.
Long story short, your swing speed, your height, swing length and a bunch of other factors will determine the right club and shaft combination.
Also, use the same ball you use on the course when you do a fitting. Balls have a larger variance in spin and trajectory.