How to Hit Out of Bunkers

Introduction

Bunker shots can be intimidating, but with the right technique and mindset, they become an opportunity rather than a challenge. As a PGA professional, I emphasize that bunker play is about understanding the sand, club selection, and proper technique. This guide will break down both greenside and fairway bunker shots, including strategic approaches and relevant rules.

1. Understanding Bunker Conditions

Before playing a bunker shot, assess:

  • Sand Texture: Soft, fluffy sand requires a different approach than firm, compacted sand.

  • Lip Height: Adjust shot selection based on whether the lip is low or steep.

  • Ball Lie: A plugged lie demands a different strategy than a clean lie sitting up.

  • Distance to Target: Knowing the required distance helps in club and shot selection.

2. Greenside Bunker Shots

Setup & Technique

  • Stance: Open your stance slightly, with your lead foot flared out.

  • Ball Position: Place the ball slightly forward in your stance.

  • Clubface: Open the clubface to utilize the bounce and glide through the sand.

  • Grip: Maintain light grip pressure to allow a smooth, free-flowing motion.

  • Weight Distribution: Favor your front foot (around 60/40) for stability and a descending strike.

Swing Execution

  • Backswing: Take a smooth backswing, keeping wrists relaxed.

  • Strike Point: Aim to hit the sand 1-2 inches behind the ball.

  • Follow-Through: Accelerate through the shot, ensuring a high, full finish.

  • Key Thought: The sand propels the ball, not direct contact with the clubface.

Common Mistakes & Fixes

  • Decelerating Through Impact: Leads to leaving the ball in the bunker. Keep acceleration steady.

  • Too Much or Too Little Sand: Adjust clubface angle and entry point to control sand displacement.

  • Lack of Loft: If shots come out low, ensure the clubface remains open at impact.

3. Fairway Bunker Shots

Setup & Technique

  • Stance: Maintain a slightly narrower stance than normal.

  • Ball Position: Place the ball slightly forward in your stance for clean contact.

  • Grip: Hold the club normally—avoid excessive grip pressure.

  • Club Selection: Use a club with enough loft to clear the bunker lip while still achieving distance.

Swing Execution

  • Backswing: Make a controlled, steady backswing—avoid excessive movement.

  • Ball Contact: Unlike a greenside bunker shot, you want to strike the ball first, not the sand.

  • Follow-Through: Maintain balance and a full finish to ensure proper ball flight.

  • Key Thought: Stay steady and focus on crisp contact with the ball, minimizing lower body movement.

Common Mistakes & Fixes

  • Too Much Sand Contact: Results in a loss of distance. Keep your weight centered and strike the ball first.

  • Lifting the Ball: Don’t try to scoop the ball—let the club do the work.

  • Choosing the Wrong Club: If the bunker lip is high, prioritize loft over distance.

4. Rules & Strategic Approach to Bunker Play

Basic Bunker Rules (USGA Guidelines)

  • No Grounding the Club: In a hazard, you cannot touch the sand with your club before the shot.

  • Loose Impediments: As of 2019, you can remove loose impediments (leaves, stones, etc.), but be careful not to move the ball.

  • Unplayable Lies: You can declare a ball unplayable and take a penalty stroke, dropping outside the bunker.

Strategic Approach

  • Greenside: Prioritize getting the ball out and onto the green rather than attempting the perfect shot.

  • Fairway: Choose a club that ensures clearing the bunker lip, even if it means sacrificing distance.

  • Club Selection: Consider using a sand wedge (54-60 degrees) for greenside shots and a mid-iron/hybrid for fairway bunkers (higher lofted irons or wedge for fairway bunkers with high lips).

  • Practice Drills: Work on bunker shots from different lies to build confidence and adaptability.

Conclusion

Mastering bunker play requires proper setup, technique, and a smart approach. By refining your greenside and fairway bunker skills and understanding bunker rules, you’ll gain confidence and turn a once-dreaded shot into a strength. With practice, you’ll see improved results and lower scores on the course.

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