Callaway Strata Men's Complete Golf Set with Bag, 13-Piece

I'm writing this initial review based solely on my initial impression of the clubs and will update it after I've had a chance to actually play several rounds of golf with them. I purchased these clubs because I really want to get into the game of golf, but I don't want to spend a lot of money until I'm good enough to actually know what kind of clubs I'll want. I looked into buying older clubs, but quickly realized I would spend far more on older clubs than I would on a new golf set and many of the older clubs don't have the technology of the newer clubs. I researched the Wilson Ultra set, Pine Meadows and several other brands and ended up going with the Callaway Srata Clubs because based on other reviews they seemed to be the highest quality for the price.When I received them in the mail I was pleasantly surprised how great of quality the box was in, normally when I order something this large I expect the box to be at least a little banged up. The clubs were all packaged very nicely with bubble wrap around each club head and I was happy to see that there were no nicks, dings or any sort of noticeable blemishes on the clubs. The clubs feel absolutely amazing, they don't have a cheap feel to them at all and compared to some older clubs I'd been borrowing from a friend these feel like a vast improvement. The clubs all look and feel great and I'm extremely excited to take them to the driving range for the first time. After thoroughly examining all of the clubs I gave the bag a close look and was really surprised how nice of a bag they included. I just assumed the bag wouldn't be very nice and was planning on purchasing another bag for the clubs but the bag feels really nice. I really like the included shoulder straps because I normally walk the course rather than renting a cart. Overall, the bags combined with the clubs look great together and don't look like a cheap golf set at all.I'm giving the clubs an initial rating of 5 stars because of the superb condition they arrived in and the overall high quality look and feel of the bag and clubs. I can't wait to try these out and will post an updated review once I've had a chance to get a good feel for them.

First off, I chose the free 5-7 day shipping. The set arrived on day 3! The bag stand is lightweight and sturdy. All the clubs are very forgiving, even for a beginner like myself. I've improved by about 25 yards using irons. My rookie swing would only get me about 90 yards out with the set I used to learn with. I used the hybrids for the first time w/this set and I love them! Long irons were very hard for me to hit with, but with these I make awesome contact! On another note, the 5-hybrid came w/two dents on the face. High enough on the face where it wouldn't make contact w/the ball, but I expect something brand new in box to be free of any blemishes or defects, thats why I only gave 4 stars. Anyways, let's move on to the driver. My first swing I instantly hit 300 yards straight as an arrow! I thought hitting the pitching wedge 120 got me hooked, now I'm a straight GOLF-FEEN! Also, they're Callaway Stratas, right? The set doesn't say Callaway anywhere, but, at only $200 for a quality set it's ok.. better than that Pinemeadow BS. I RECOMMEND THESE TO ANY NOVICE!Oh yeah, I did a 73 at my local 18 hole par3 my first time out :D best game ever! GET THESE CLUBS!

First off, its amazing that you can get a bag and 10 clubs for $200! This is my first set of clubs a few months ago. I play every weekend and practice once or twice a week. I've recently bought nicer clubs, these are now for warm up and kept in the car. I kind of wish I had just went to goodwill, but at least with a new set everything is 'stock' and matched (lies/lofts/lengths.) The set comes well packaged, each club individually wrapped in the bag.The bag is very functional (not a big fan of the color) and decently light. you'd probably need to spend $100 or more to get any more benefit. There isn't a convenient pocket for drinks if you carry (without sacrificing the two pockets for tees and other small items.) I replaced it with a sun mountain four 5 which is better in every way (but cost 2 benjamins)The putter is fine, but as it is with all things personal in golf, you'd best be off to try every putter on the rack at a store. I was never accurate with the strata. I ended up with an Odyssey Dart ($100)The irons seem to run half an inch short compared to mainstream TM / Callaway (what you'll see most often in golf stores.) They're forgiving to hit, but don't expect much spin or high trajectory. The 6i ended up getting bent (or was already bent) at the ferule where its joined to the club (there is an odd plastic insert.) It was the easiest club for me to hit and least chunked. The grips are rubber, a bit too thick and have ridges that gave me blisters and would tear up my gloves pretty fast. The red design in the grip would also wear off on my gloves. Not a fan.The driver dented early on, right under the heel. I was really surprised because although I topped the ball, I am a very light swinger. I think its way too oversized for a beginner's driver. When I did hit it well, it went 250 yds. 3 wood was my favorite out of the set, really not bad (although a steel shaft.) The 4h and 5h I liked hitting off the fairway, but actually prefer an iron in the rough. Paint fill in the lettering on all the woods soles is already starting to come off.