Just spend the money and get fit.

To note, Titleist alone offers 8 different irons, and each one can be ordered with several dozen shaft options, based on your swing. A fitting will help you define which type of head and shaft design will work best with your swing. It may be worth it to work with a local club shop to define what you need and then recommend used sets. You'd pay for the fitting/recommendation but most club pros are willing to be price sensitive and won't insist on buying new a new set. Of course, if you really enjoy what they help you with, you'd be inclined to be a repeat customer.

After that, avoid e-bay as the potential for buying counterfeit clubs is too much of a risk to the less experienced buyer. Sites that sell used irons in addition to new Titleist and other OEM golf clubs will guarantee their used sets are authentic. Not limited to but as examples, 2nd Swing and Global Golf. Some of the other OEM companies that also sell direct may have a used club "store". Titleist only sells through authorized dealers and does not offer used clubs.

A set that matches your game will provide the best experience for years to come. An ill-fitting set will make the game even harder, much like hiking in a pair of the wrong sized loafers.

CWIII, thanks for asking. Many of us here got our start using our dad's old hand-me-downs. Not a bad way to start. I think what Todd is saying is that having properly fitted clubs to your own body type and swing is very helpful in progressing to the next step. There are several ways you can do that. There are paid fittings at lots of locations but Titleist even has some limited free fitting under the name of Titleist Thursdays. You can find out more details by going to that location on the website. Hopefully you can find one near you. If new clubs do not fit in your budget, once you know the basic new model and specifications that fit you, you can find older models with the same set up at stores like 2nd Swing or Budget Golf. You can also buy on Ebay but a little more caution over fakes that might be there. Good luck, hope this helps. Hopefully, a Titleist guy for years to come.

If you want a good set that you can keep for the next ten years, please find a good fitter and get a good combination of shaft and head. Best decision you will even make. Do not want to repeat what Don and Dale have laid out so detailed for you..........and I am bias, my set is 100% Titleist, because it works for ME.

I also happily inhereted some of my father's old clubs, however, I totally agree with what Dave, Don and Todd advised you; having properly fitted clubs is priceless and it will prove to be fruitful in the long run.

If you plan to spend 10 years with a 'new' set of clubs that you will buy, it is best to invest a little bit more and get the best out of your game. Once you are fitted and know what works best for you, there are many good second hand options that can fit and suit your needs.

I hope you find the best possible affordable set of clubs that suit your game, Carl.