Early, yours the main goal as a recreational golfer on a green bunker it’s simple: take out the ball and land it AROUND in green.
Once your technique is sound and you’re getting the ball out consistently, the next step is learning how to control distance. That’s where the good bunker players are divided.
Here are some adjustments you can use to dial in your distance from the sand.
1. Choice of club
One of the easiest ways to control bunker distance is by changing clubs. More loft creates a higher shot that travels a shorter distance; less loft produces a lower shot that goes farther. Below is a helpful guide you can follow right from the start.
- Wedge point (58–60°): Shortest carry
- Sand Wedge (54–56°): Medium range bunker shots
- Gap wedge (50–52°): Ideal for longer bunker shots and will clear most lips, so don’t let lips discourage you when you need extra distance
2. Face angle
Beyond club loft, face angle plays a big role in controlling distance. Opening the face slightly adds loft and dance, which helps the ball fly higher and shorter. You can also keep your face square – but you should never close it.
If the shot distance falls between the clubs, choose the lower elevation option and open the face. This maintains bounce and allows the club to slide easily through the sand.
3. Shaft angle
Adjusting the shaft angle at address – and through the stroke – can significantly affect distance. For shorter shots, let the grip tilt back and away from the target. At a minimum, the shaft must be vertical; avoid tipping the axle forward unless you are dealing with a buried lie.
To further reduce distance, lean the grip toward the back pocket or increase the trail hand release through the stroke so the shaft leans back as the club enters the sand.
4. Increasing the pace
Swing pace is an extremely effective distance controller. A faster swing throws more sand and sends the ball farther, while a slower swing reduces total distance. Just be careful not to slow down so much that the ball misses the bunker.
5. Swing path
Your return path also affects the distance. A straighter and slightly steeper backswing adds loft and spin, producing a higher shot that travels less distance.
A more rounded backswing—where the body rotates more and the swing plane flattens—reduces spin and helps the ball fly farther.
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