A golf club is a tool used to hit a golf ball in the game of golf. It consists of three main components: the head, the shaft, and the grip. There are different types of golf clubs, each designed for specific purposes. For example, woods are mainly used for long-distance fairway or tee shots, irons are versatile and used for a variety of shots, hybrids combine design elements of woods and irons, and putters are used mainly on the green to roll the ball into the hole. A modern set of golf clubs typically consists of three woods, at least one hybrid, seven irons, and a putter, totaling 12 clubs. However, the rules of golf allow players to carry up to 14 clubs in their bag, providing them with more options to make their shots easier. Putters are the most specialized golf clubs and come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The ruling authorities of golf reserve the right to define the permissible shapes and physical characteristics of clubs for tournament play.