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We Know: How to Buy New and Used Golf Balls
Used Golf Ball Grades
Grading systems and naming conventions vary from seller to seller, so the following is a
general guideline for used golf balls:
- Mint. These golf balls are in especially good condition and are sometimes
indistinguishable
from brand new balls. Mint used golf balls are second only to new ones. They should be glossy and
have a consistent color and appearance. Some retailers include golf balls in this category that may
have logos or other personalized markings.
- Grade A. These golf balls may have a scuff mark or slight blemish. Generally, they are
only cosmetically affected and have nothing wrong with them that will affect play. Some balls may
have logos or other personalized markings.
- Grade B. These golf balls have nothing wrong with them that will affect play, but
because they will have more blemishes and ink marks, they are cheaper than Grade A or Mint.
Some balls may have logos or other personalized markings.
- Grade C. These golf balls are playable, but definitely look used, with color variations,
markings, and scuff marks. Some golfers prefer to use these balls when they are most at risk for
losing them in water hazards and other difficult locations.
- Refinished. In addition to cosmetic issues, these golf balls may have problems that
affect their play.
Tips to Buying New and Used Golf Balls
Keep things in mind when purchasing new or used golf balls:
- Determine what type of ball you need, whether it be a range, floating, putting or other
type of ball. Compare prices of that type from one manufacturer to the next for a consistent
comparison.
- Find deals online. By using a search engine you can locate several companies on the
Internet that sell new and/or used golf balls at discount or sale prices. Some companies will sell
wholesale to individuals. Online auction houses like eBay may also have golf balls for sale.
- Estate sales and garage sales are good sources for used golf balls.
- New and used golf balls are generally cheaper the more you buy. Purchase them in lots, bulk
or by the case for maximum savings.
- Any golf ball with a cut is not considered playable. Look before you buy or else get a
guarantee from the supplier that no cut balls will be included.
- Floating golf balls should have a mark that will help you distinguish them from the rest of
your golf balls.
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