Often referred to as the 'scoring clubs,' wedges are the specialized irons that let you hit the short shots with the highest degree of accuracy. Although the pitching wedge often comes with a regular set of golf clubs, the sand wedge, gap wedge, and lob wedge are clubs you will usually buy separately, often as your game gets better.

Wedges were originally created as specialty clubs for different situations (getting out of tight spots, over trees, and the like). Though they have specific names such as sand, gap, and lob, they are often referred to by their degree of 'loft' instead of their name. A typical lob wedge, for instance, produces around a 60 degree loft and will often be referred to as a '60 degree wedge.'

For beginners, the pitching wedge will usually suffice, giving players a 45 to 48 degree loft for sand shots and chipping around the green. For those ready to venture deeper into the club bag, the sand wedge is often the first wedge purchased. A typical sand wedge has a loft of around 56 degrees.

The gap wedge is so named because it fills the gap between the pitching and sand wedges. Its loft is typically 50 to 54 degrees. And finally, the 60 degree lob wedge will help you lob over any obstacle. Though it's best to get some experience under your belt before you purchase wedges, when you're ready, you'll love having these more powerful options in your arsenal.