How many clubs are you allowed to carry in your golf bag? (Rules, practice & set examples)
In tournaments and handicap-qualifying rounds, the rule is: a maximum of 14 clubs in your bag. You may start with fewer, and You can add up to 14 during the round – as long as you don't use another player's racket on the course. (Exception: Partners share up to 14 rackets). Here you will find a clear overview, practical examples, and set suggestions.
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The 14-club rule – explained concisely
- Limit: Max. 14 clubs in the bag.
- Starting with fewer players: Adding up to 14 is allowed (without delaying the game, no borrowed rackets from fellow players on the course).
- Sharing: Partners may share clubs if the total of both bags does not exceed 14.
- Too many clubs? Immediately remove the excess clubs "from the game" and continue playing as if they weren't in the bag.
Practical tip: Before starting, make a note of which clubs are in your bag (e.g., in a note on your phone). This will help you avoid accidentally exceeding the limit.
Set examples (not exhaustive)
| player type | Typical composition (up to 14) | Notice |
|---|---|---|
| Beginners | Driver, 5W, 5H, 7–9I, PW, SW, Putter (10–11 clubs) | Fewer rackets = clearer decisions; add to this later. |
| All-round | Driver, 3W, 5W or 3H, 4H, 5-9I, PW, GW, SW, Putter (13-14) | Hybrid instead of long iron for consistency. |
| Short game focus | Driver, 5W, 4H, 6-9I, PW, 50°, 54°, 58°, Putter (13-14) | Finer wedge gapping for closer proximity to the flag. |
| “Minimal” (9–12) | Driver, Hybrid, 7I, 9I, PW, SW, Putter (+ optional 5I/5H, 3W) | Ideal for quick laps or travel. |
Here's how to close length gaps effectively.
- Current state analysis: Where do large gaps occur? (long shots, transition from hybrid to iron, wedge gapping)
- Prioritize: Max. 14 places – place clubs where they will save strokes .
- Testing: Compare 2-3 alternatives in the fitting (e.g. 5W vs. 4H, 50° vs. 52°).
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FAQ
May I add clubs during the round?
Yes – if you started with less than 14, you may add up to 14 (without unfair delay and without using other players' rackets).
Am I allowed to share a racket with my partner?
Yes, provided the total number of your clubs does not exceed 14. This is only practical in certain game formats – clarify this before starting.
What happens if I take more than 14 rackets with me?
Excess rackets must be removed from play immediately. Avoid this situation by counting off before starting.
Do I always have to use all 14 seats?
No. Many players are very successful with 10-13 clubs. The important thing is that the distance gaps are closed effectively.
How do I find the 14 best ones for me?
With a fitting – where gapping, loft/lie, shaft/grip and head design are adjusted to your swing.