Specialty Shots Golf Instructions and Tips  - Sand Shot Part 1

The sand shot from a greenside bunker is a rather easy shot that many golfers make difficult.

The sand shot from a greenside bunker is a rather easy shot that many golfers make difficult. In order to realize the easiness of the shot, one must first understand the design of the sand wedge.

The sand wedge has a large flange, or bump, on the back of the clubhead. When the clubhead is laid on its back, the leading edge of the clubface is actually off the ground while the flange of the clubhead is actually in contact with the ground. The flange creates a bounce for the club as it passes through the sand, as opposite to the leading edge of the club digging into the sand.

When the ball is sitting on top of the sand, the technique is the same as that described above for the cut shot. Simply open the stance, position the ball well forward in the stance aim the clubface at the target by rotating the grip in your hands, and slide the clubhead under the ball to a full finish. Focus on a spot two inches behind the ball as the point where the clubhead is to enter the sand. Actually look at that spot rather than at the ball. When the club is swung, the bounce of the flange will move the clubhead through the sand on a shallow path, and the displaced sand will actually carry the ball to a soft landing on the green.

If the ball is buried in the sand, take basically the same swing. In this case, however, don't open the stance as much, and keep the clubface square to the target, allowing the leading edge of the sand wedge to dig into the sand an inch or two behind the ball. The ball should emerge with a bit more sand under it, on a lower trajectory, and with more roll.