What’s the hardest shot in golf? Many think it’s the 40 to 50 yard bunker shot. They may be right. At this distance you’re too close to take a full swing and you’re too far to use your customary greenside bunker shot. No one likes being in a bunker. But add 40 or 50 yards to the shot and you have a dicey shot that can cost you strokes.
Below are five key tips to conquer the mid-range bunker shot
- Temper your expectations
- Select the right club
- Open your clubface slightly
- Aim an inch and a half behind the ball
- Make a normal pitch shot
First, temper your expectations. It’s an extremely difficult shot so don’t try to do too much. And don’t try to be too fine. Anything on the green is good. Anything close to the green is acceptable as well.
Second, ditch your sand wedge. It requires too big a swing. Plus, the wedge’s bounce encounters too much resistance in the sand. Instead, use a 7-, 8-, or 9-iron. These clubs require a smaller swing and meet with less sand resistance. Use a 7-iron with a shorter lip. Use a 9-iron with a higher lip.
Third, open your stance and clubface slightly and aim about an inch and a half behind the ball. Now make a normal pitch shot. You can swing normally because you’ve taken an extra club or two for the shot.
Expect the ball to come out on a lower trajectory and release forward. Take this into account before making the shot.
Conquer the mid-range bunker shot with these key tips I’ve outlined and you’ll be sure to save strokes next time you face it on the course.
