Bunkers · Lesson
Five Keys for Deep or Firm Bunkers
Part of our bunkers programs for not getting out, plugged or odd lies. Build a program with it
Set up with a wide stance and your feet dug in. Put about 60 percent of your weight forward. Play the ball forward for a soft shot, or more centered for one that runs. Open the face before you take your grip. Now remember, you're not hitting the ball. Hit a spot about two inches behind it, firmly. Take a good-sized backswing, at least three-quarters. Then accelerate to a high finish. Read the sand too. Soft, fluffy sand needs a shallower swing. Firm, coarse sand needs a steeper one.
Step by step
- Wide, dug-in stance, weight forward.
- Open the face, then grip.
- Hit two inches behind the ball.
- Big backswing, then accelerate.
- Adjust for soft or firm sand.
Why it works
A bunker shot works by sending sand under the ball, not by striking the ball itself. A wide, dug-in stance with weight forward keeps the low point of the swing behind the ball. Opening the face before the grip adds bounce, so the club glides through the sand instead of digging. A big backswing and an accelerating finish give the sand enough force to carry the ball out.
Common mistakes
- You close the face back to square when you take your grip, which removes the bounce.Open the face first, then take your grip so the face stays open.
- You look at the ball and try to hit it, so the club bottoms out late and the shot comes out thin.Pick a spot about two inches behind the ball and focus on hitting that spot firmly.
- You take a short swing and slow down through impact, so the ball stays in the sand.Make a backswing of at least three-quarters and accelerate to a high finish.
How you'll know it's working
- The club enters the sand at your spot behind the ball and leaves a consistent divot-shaped scar of sand.
- The ball comes out on a steady line with sand thrown out with it, not thin or bladed across the green.
- Your finish is high and balanced, with your weight on your front foot.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: Practice in soft sand with the ball played forward, and draw a line in the sand two inches behind the ball to hit.
Harder: Practice from firm, coarse sand or a deep lip, and change the ball position to control how far the ball runs.
Common questions
Why do I blade the ball out of a bunker?
Usually the club is bottoming out too late or the leading edge is hitting the ball. Open the face, keep your weight forward, and hit the sand about two inches behind the ball.
How do I play a bunker shot from firm sand?
Use a steeper swing, because firm, coarse sand gives less room for the club to glide. Keep the same setup, hit behind the ball, and accelerate through.
