How are Used Golf Balls Graded?
Recycled Golf Balls — graded by condition
Recycled balls are recovered, washed, and hand-graded in their original factory finish — nothing is repainted or altered. The grade tells you the condition.
Mint (5A)
- Looks and plays like new — no visible blemishes, maybe a faint shelf mark.
- Slight player markings (dots, small lines) may be present.
- Logos may be present.
Near Mint (4A)
- Excellent condition — like a ball played for a hole or two.
- May show very minor cosmetic marks: a small cover scratch or slight discoloration. Blemishes will not affect playability.
- May contain larger player markings than Mint. May contain logos.
Value (3A)
- Visibly used — small scuffs, scratches, or discoloration present.
- No cut balls, ever.
- Will contain large player markings. May contain logos.
- The budget choice for practice and water-hazard holes.
Refinished Golf Balls — a different product, not a condition grade
Refinished balls are restored, not just graded: the used ball is stripped, repainted, re-stamped, and clear-coated at our facility. They look brand new — and they are always labeled “Refinished” so you never mistake one for an original-finish recycled ball.
Mint Refinished
- Appears brand new, with a small “Refinished by Links Choice” stamp for full transparency.
- Refurbished via stripping, repainting, stamping, and clear-coating.
- New-ball look at a fraction of the price, with similar performance.