Are copies just as good as actual brand names clubs?

Question

A pro today told me that he sells clubs which are "copies" of actual brand name clubs. He said that the only difference between the two is that one of them is made by the brand name manufacturer and that the other is made by him, but that it is the same club regardless. What do you think?

Answer 1

There is a HECK of a lot of testing that goes on with genuine brand name products.

I can't even begin to describe the incredible amount of scientific testing, involving hundreds of thousands of repitions, swing tests, impact tests, safety tests, performance tests, hardness tests, materials tests, etc etc.

Since these are scientific tests, they are designed to OPTIMIZE all aspects of the product.  A copy can not begin to incorporate all the little tweaks that were made as a result from the test data.  

A copy has the same basic dimensions, and roughly the same materials and roughly the same weight. Basically you can copy the things that are measurable and visible.

You can't copy the subtle things that separate a good product from an average or junky one.

But, all of this testing must be paid for one way or another, and it's the customer who pays for it ultimately.  So a copy is usually cheaper, but rarely as good.

It's a myth that mass-produced products are somehow inferior to hand-made products.  Hand made products are usually full of flaws that would easily be detected in sophisticated manufacturing environments.

Answer 2

far from true . copies are not worth anything . if money is a problem , or you are just stating golf , check your local newspaper , used sporting goods store , best yet flea markets for brand name clubs . as a last desperate resort , use with extreme caution e bay . if you need new clubs all major outlets have 2007 clubs on clearance . full set irons . 279 to 299 dollars , drivers 130 . fairway woods 99 dollars . you will find with the copies the price will be more , also no warrenty , the shafts , grips cheapest available . avoid like the plauge . thank you

Answer 3

I would avoid true "knockoff" clones and go with what is called "Inspired By" designs, if you are really looking at clones for your options.

What some people fail to realize is most of these components are produced in the same foundries as the big OEM heads.

"Inspired by" designs are clones that closely resemble a certain OEM head, but there are differences that keep the clone manufacturer from getting their @$$s brought into court. "Inspired by" designs are generally as good as the big names, but without the price tag.

I will list some great sources for low priced (but great quality) "inspired by" clones.

Answer 4

it depends if the pro is talking about component companies or knock- off clubs. There are some excellent component companies around, Maltby, KZG, etc, and the pro will most likely build them with tighter tolerances than the major companies. However, if he is talking about knock- off clubs, be very wary, they are often built with cheaper materials and break quickly.

Answer 5

no, this pro is an idiot

Answer 6

Truthfully, I think your golf pro is " pulling your leg" and wants you to consider " knock-offs" in place of the real things. There is no way that components go through as stringent an inspection nor are they from the prime -named producer. Neither is there a consistency from one club to the other as you will find in the named brand.

Answer 7

I am sure there is some difference but the branded clubs carry advertising cots etc. It really depends on the level of your game. If you are a 15-20 +handicap golfer I would go with the copies( keeping in mind the pro will make the money)