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Golf is a vast game with A LOT of rules, tools and terminology to get your head around.
But for all the intricate things to understand, one of the simplest rules is one of the least talked about - but that doesn’t make it any less important.
Most golfers carry a stacked bag of golf clubs every time they step onto the first tee - but how many golf clubs are they actually allowed to carry?
As it turns out, there’s a limit.
We should know… at Clarkes Golf, we’re official stockists of the biggest golf club brands in the world today - including Callaway golf clubs, TaylorMade golf clubs, Mizuno golf clubs and more - so we like to think we know a thing or two on the subject.
In this blog, we’ll discuss exactly how many clubs in a golf bag are allowed, along with some other rules you may not be aware of. So you can avoid a few costly mistakes later down the line.
How many golf clubs are you allowed to carry at once?
Both The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A) and the United States Golf Association (USGA) - two of the most respected governing bodies in the sport - have stated that a player is allowed no more than 14 golf clubs in their bag during play.
In most golf bags, these clubs often include:
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A driver
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A putter
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3 fairway woods (or similar - for example, golf hybrids)
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9 irons, including golf wedges.
These clubs are not set in stone, though, and a player is allowed to carry whatever clubs they wish so long as they don’t exceed 14 clubs.
It sounds like an easy rule to follow. But, interestingly, the rules outlined by the names above also make note of rare instances in which a player may not be aware they’re carrying more than the number of clubs allowed, even if a club is accidentally placed in a player’s bag.
In short, excess clubs are not to be used and must be disposed of as quickly as possible.
Why can you only carry a certain number of clubs?
This rule is an interesting part of golfing history.
Nowadays, there are two major types of golf clubs: Steel-shafted clubs and graphite clubs. However, in the early 20th century when the game was still in its infancy, it wasn’t uncommon to see players using a mix of steel clubs and hickory clubs.
But while steel-shafted clubs were often part of a limited set, hickory clubs were far more wide-ranging in their abilities and benefits. This meant players would load up on this type of club, carrying upwards of 20 in some cases, presenting an unfair advantage over other players.
So, the decision was made to cap the number at 14 for fairness.
What is the punishment for carrying too many clubs?
This depends on whether you’re adhering to stroke play or match play.
If the rules of stroke play are being followed, once it’s discovered you’re carrying and using too many clubs, it’ll cost you two strokes per every hole you’ve played.
Whereas in match play, it’ll cost you the entire hole, which could equate to a hefty loss.
Can you borrow your partner’s golf clubs?
Sadly not. If you’ve already maxed out your golf bag at 14, but want to take advantage of another club your playing partner is using, you’ll need to stick with what you have.
Not only is this because of the numbers, but also because a golfer can only use their own clubs during play, according to official rules.
If you’re just enjoying a relaxed game with your friends, this won’t matter as much. But if it’s something more serious, play it safe and follow the rules.
Can I use less than 14 clubs?
Of course! No law says you must carry 14 clubs.
If you can make it round the golf course relatively well with fewer clubs, feel free. You can even try to play the entire course with a single club, if you’re brave enough! Though this definitely isn’t recommended for obvious reasons.
Can you add more clubs to your bag mid-round?
It’s a funny position to be in, given you’re technically not allowed to take clubs from your fellow players’ bags.
But yes, if you want to add an extra club or multiple clubs to your bag midway through a round, you are allowed to do so as long as you remain below the 14-club limit.
You’ll have a tough time finding them if you’re a million miles from the clubhouse, though. So best of luck!
Can you carry more than one of the same type of golf club?
You absolutely can.
While this is rare, and wouldn’t make a lot of sense depending on the specific club in question, you are allowed to carry more than one of the same type of club in the same golf bag.
The most likely scenario where this specific rule is relevant is if a player has a preference for multiple golf drivers, or multiple golf putters, and likes to use them interchangeably depending on the shot. Some golfers carry more than one sand wedge, too, but hopefully you won't be in the sand enough to consider this move.
Explore the best golf clubs for sale at Clarkes Golf
Now that you know exactly how many clubs you’re allowed in your golf bag, and the reasonings behind this, it’s time to build the ultimate golf club collection.
At Clarkes Golf, you’ll find package golf club sets and individual clubs - including golf drivers, golf irons and more - from the world’s leading brands. So no matter your preference or playing style, we’ll always have the essential clubs for your golf game.
Take a look at our selection of clubs at the links above, or get in touch with the Clarkes Golf team if you need a hand with your order - we’re always happy to help.