$500 bucks isn't enough for a dilemma...let's bump it to two grand...that's enough for a full bag of some pretty good sticks...if you want shaft upgrades then push it to 3K...point is you've got some disposable cash and have to make a decision as to what is going to make the biggest difference in your game and what you're willing to do (lessons aren't just about the actual time with the instructor...you gotta practice for it to stick and some folks don't have time or care for the range...)...anyhow, here's the ball, run with it...