How to Get Out of Bunker Shots with Confidence

For many golfers, bunker shots are one of the most intimidating parts of the game. Whether it's the fear of leaving the ball in the sand or the frustration of hitting it thin across the green, it's easy to let nerves take over. But with a few key fundamentals and some focused practice, bunker play can become a reliable part of your short game — not something to dread.

Understanding the Goal

The goal of a standard greenside bunker shot isn’t to hit the ball directly. Instead, you want to hit the sand just behind the ball and use the sand to carry the ball out and onto the green. It’s one of the few golf shots where contact with the ball isn’t the priority — clean technique through the sand is.

The Right Setup

A consistent setup is the foundation of a good bunker shot. Here’s what to focus on:

• Use a Sand Wedge (54°–58°): This club is designed for sand play, with enough loft and bounce to help the club glide through the surface instead of digging in.
• Open the Clubface Slightly: This adds loft and exposes the bounce of the club, which helps prevent digging.
• Ball Position: Place the ball slightly forward in your stance — roughly in line with your front armpit.
• Stance and Weight: Take a slightly open stance with your feet a bit wider than normal. Keep about 60% of your weight on your front foot, and maintain it throughout the swing.
• Grip Lightly: A softer grip promotes better feel and keeps your hands from getting too active during the swing.

The Swing

The key to a solid bunker swing is commitment and acceleration. Here's a step-by-step approach:

1. Focus on a Spot Behind the Ball: Aim to enter the sand 1–2 inches behind the ball.
2. Use a Full, Smooth Swing: Think of it as a three-quarter to full swing, depending on distance. Don’t slow down at impact — keep the club moving through the sand.
3. Follow Through: Your club should continue upward after impact. A full finish helps lift the ball and avoid digging.

The idea is to “splash” the sand out of the bunker, carrying the ball with it. Try visualizing the ball riding out on a cushion of sand.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Trying to Lift the Ball: Don’t lean back or scoop. Trust the loft of the club and swing through.
• Closed Clubface: This reduces loft and increases the chance of digging. Keep it slightly open unless you’re intentionally playing a lower shot.
• Decelerating: This is a common problem and often leads to poor contact. Always accelerate through the sand.

Practice Tips

You don’t need to be on a tour-level course to improve your bunker play. If you have access to a practice bunker, use it — and if not, work on the motions in your backyard or garage with a towel or mat.

Here’s a simple drill:

• Line Drill: Draw a line in the sand and practice hitting the sand in front of the line with no ball. Your goal is to consistently enter the sand in the same spot every time.
• Once you're comfortable, place a ball just ahead of the line and repeat the motion.

Repeat these drills regularly to build feel and consistency.

Final Thoughts

Bunker shots don't have to be intimidating. With a clear plan, the right setup, and a confident swing, they can become one of the most controlled parts of your short game. Like any other golf skill, it takes repetition and patience — but the results are worth it. The next time you find your ball in a bunker, take a breath, trust your fundamentals, and make a committed swing. You'll be surprised how quickly your confidence grows.