Do I need game-improvement irons? Or what about super game-improvement? Cavity back or no? Am I good enough for blades? These are often the questions swirling around in the minds of those who are looking to buy a new set of irons. There’s much to be taken into account as you make this next purchase, and it’s important to be well-informed on which iron type is best for your game.

Here’s a breakdown of what to consider before you finalize your next purchase:

What’s your type?

There are two main models of irons you’ll come across in your shopping—blades and cavity back. Cavity back irons tend to be more forgiving and easier to hit, made all the easier with their oversized shape for an expanded sweet spot. If you’re handicap is above 10 or if you struggle with consistent ball striking, you will probably benefit most from what a cavity back design has to offer. If you’re on the other end of the spectrum and play to a low single-digit handicap, blades will provide effortless workability to shape shots and flight trajectories, leading to close approach shots and more birdies.

Combo Set Opportunities?

Don’t be afraid to mix and match a set that is tailored to your needs. Sure, blades can be harder to hit, especially in the long irons, but most companies offer the ability to create combo sets with both blades and cavity backs. Typically, this works by having cavity back irons in the long game (3-7 iron) and blades with your scoring clubs (8-PW). If you’re on the fence about which model to buy, be sure to take advantage of combining the best of both options. If you’re a candidate for super game-improvement equipment, some manufacturers opt to switch out longer irons for hybrids that are easier to hit from a variety of lies. In brief, don’t feel like you need to lock yourself into “one type” of iron all the way through the set.

Shaft Materials

If your swing speed is under 90 mph, you’re going to benefit from graphite shafts that deliver more flex, allowing the club face to get back to square at impact. Graphite shafts are also lighter, which also helps those with moderate swing speeds add a little extra distance. Before buying your set, check with Golf Town’s fitting staff to determine your swing speed and then discuss which shafts are best suited for your game. For those who swing it faster than 90 mph and want to maneuver the ball from left to right with ease, steel shafts are your best bet.

Lie Angle

Are you irons too upright? Does the heel touch the surface with the club’s toe off the ground? Getting fit for a proper lie angle can help you hit more consistent iron shots. Depending on your setup at address, Golf Town’s fitting staff can adjust the iron’s lie to your unique requirements. Ideally, you want the sole of the club lying flat on the ground as you begin your backswing.

Brand Buying

Some players are brand loyalists, playing one company’s equipment for years and never wavering. There are a few reasons golfers do this, most often because they’re satisfied with the product and wish to continue with whichever brand they’ve come to use. Others, however, are wary of switching brands, implementing the philosophy of “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it.” There may be some truth to that, but with the quality of today’s equipment from such a wide selection of brands, it may be wise to get out of your comfort zone and try what else is out there.