I'm looking at getting these two books.
Has anyone owned or used either of these in the current copy? I know the new rules means these are new editions not out yet, but are these what you are going to buy, or is there a better option?

Decisions on the Rules of Golf 2012-2013
Out: 4/4/2012
http://www.amazon.com/Decisions-2012-2013-United-States-Association/dp/0600623947/ref=pd_bxgy_b_text_b

Golf Rules Illustrated
Out: 3/2/2012
http://www.amazon.com/Rules-Illustrated-United-States-Association/dp/0600623432/ref=pd_bxgy_b_text_b

Thanks in advance.

The first one is the official "Rules and Decisions" bible. Whenever we (referees and rules-nuts alike) mention "The Decisions", it's this book we refer to. You need to already know the way in the rules if you want to use it effectively. I've got one at home and can't get used to the new ring book cover but that of course doesn't change the contents .

The other is more instructional, if you just want to learn about the rules and how they apply to your daily game, it's probably the better one.

Note: the contents of the first one is available for free online on both, R&A and USGA websites.

The DEcisions book has been available since end November last year when I got mine from Amazon UK. It is cheaper to buy from Amazon than the USGA or the R&A.

Have a look at the online versions at the links below before you buy. Either or both of these may suit your needs better.

http://www.randa.org/en/Rules-and-Amateur-Status/Rules-of-Golf.aspx#/rules/

http://www.usga.org/Rule-Books/Rules-of-Golf/Rules-and-Decisions/

They have taken a slightly different approach and different referees have their favourite.

But as jev says, get familiar with the Rules book itself first.

Those look like kick ass books! Plus they`re on amazon so they`re cheap.

I just received my 2012 copy of Golf Rules Illustrated. Looks like a pretty awesome book, but the illustrations are hilarious. They remind me of the old Goofus and Gallant comic from the Highlights magazine.

"May I make a quick stop at the clubhouse at the turn?"

"Since this is stroke play, you may since there is going to be a wait on the tenth tee anyway. Please ensure that you are not unduly delaying play, though, or we may be assessed a penalty."

Like that conversation ever happened on the golf course.

That said, I was kind of hoping it would fit in my golf bag. It's a bit too big for that. I've seen a couple "golf bag sized" ones here and there, but they aren't put out by the USGA. Does the USGA make such a thing?

Try this. Print it out and cut & fold it.

http://www.randa.org/~/media/RandA/Downloads%20and%20Free%20Publications/A%20Quick%20Guide%20to%20the%20Rules%20of%20Golf%202008-2011.ashx

Bryan K wrote:

That said, I was kind of hoping it would fit in my golf bag. It's a bit too big for that. I've seen a couple "golf bag sized" ones here and there, but they aren't put out by the USGA. Does the USGA make such a thing?

http://www.usga.org/PublicationStore/PubStoreProductDetails.aspx?id=21474843679

You should be able to get one for just S&H fee.

jev wrote:

Bryan K wrote: That said, I was kind of hoping it would fit in my golf bag. It's a bit too big for that. I've seen a couple "golf bag sized" ones here and there, but they aren't put out by the USGA. Does the USGA make such a thing? http://www.usga.org/PublicationStore/PubStoreProductDetails.aspx?id=21474843679 You should be able to get one for just S&H fee.

Sweet. Thank you. I ordered two. One for me, one for my nephew.