Early on, your primary goal as a recreational golfer in a greenside bunker is simple: get the ball out and land it somewhere on the green.
Once your technique is sound and you’re consistently getting the ball out, the next step is learning how to control distance. That’s where good bunker players separate themselves.
Here are several adjustments you can use to dial in your distance from the sand.
1. Club selection
One of the simplest 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 handy guide you can follow early on.
- Lob wedge (58–60°): Shortest carry
- Sand wedge (54–56°): Mid-range bunker shots
- Gap wedge (50–52°): Ideal for longer bunker shots and will clear most lips, so don’t let the lip discourage you when you need extra distance
2. Face angle
Beyond club loft, face angle plays a major role in distance control. Opening the face slightly adds loft and bounce, which helps the ball fly higher and shorter. You can also keep the face square — but you should never close it.
If the shot distance falls between clubs, choose the lower-lofted option and open the face. This preserves the bounce and allows the club to easily glide through the sand.
3. Shaft angle
Adjusting the shaft angle at address — and through impact — can significantly influence distance. For shorter shots, allow the handle to lean back and away from the target. At a minimum, the shaft should be vertical; avoid forward shaft lean unless you’re dealing with a buried lie.
To further reduce distance, lean the handle toward your back pocket or increase the release of the trail hand through impact so the shaft leans back as the club enters the sand.
4. Swing 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 fails to escape the bunker.
5. Swing path
Your backswing path also affects distance. A straighter, 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.
