Hi Jim,  Welcome to Team Titleist!  We would recommend getting fit first and then buying the clubs.  If you need a recommendation for a fitter, give us a call and we would be happy to help.  1-888-TITLEIST

Getting custom-fitted does not mean paying too much. You can usually get all/most of a fitting charge dropped if you actually buy a set. Many common shaft choices are available at no charge, so buying off the rack for Titleist really doesn't offer any advantage. Best to get fit with the best shaft for you, not just picking the R/S stock shaft on the rack. If you can find a retailer with inventory. I've never seen an iron or driver in stock. Wedges/putters and a limited selection of woods/hybrids is the most I've seen.

Cheers Jim. Getting new irons as well. There is no better advantage than getting fitted first. Its like having a custom tailored suit, it fits better than the ones you buy off the store racks.

Aside from just getting fitted, you will also learn something about your game  when you get fitted. Such as swing sweed, launch angel, ball spin, etc...  knowing all those details will help you choose the best clubs for you.

If in case you get the clubs first... just make sure that you go to a good "after market" fitter. That's what happened with my old irons.

Good luck.

Carlo