Downhill bunker lies?

[applejr]

I have a few bunkers at my home course that will leave you with a downhill lie to the green, and water on the other side of the green. I can't hit this shot for the life of me. I have been using the sand technique that erik or mvmac posted on here, and I love it, but can't figure out what adjustments to make to make this shot successful. Have honestly thought about trying to putt it out.

Any suggestions for a lost soul?

Thanks

[iacas]

Originally Posted by applejr

I have a few bunkers at my home course that will leave you with a downhill lie to the green, and water on the other side of the green. I can't hit this shot for the life of me. I have been using the sand technique that erik or mvmac posted on here, and I love it, but can't figure out what adjustments to make to make this shot successful. Have honestly thought about trying to putt it out.

Feet open, hands low (adds loft, but adds bounce as well, so be careful), weight on the front foot (helps to get the shoulders nearer to parallel to the slope), then drive the clubhead down the slope.

Ball will still come out lower than you think (hence dropping the hands, opening the face/stance to try to counter-balance it), so be prepared for that and take your lumps - aim for the fatter part of the green.

[applejr]

Originally Posted by iacas

Feet open, hands low (adds loft, but adds bounce as well, so be careful), weight on the front foot (helps to get the shoulders nearer to parallel to the slope), then drive the clubhead down the slope.

Ball will still come out lower than you think (hence dropping the hands, opening the face/stance to try to counter-balance it), so be prepared for that and take your lumps - aim for the fatter part of the green.

Ok, thanks. I'll try that out next time I can get to the practice area. I really just have to get to where I can trust it enough to swing hard enough, without fear of skulling it into the lake.

[iacas]

Originally Posted by applejr

Ok, thanks. I'll try that out next time I can get to the practice area. I really just have to get to where I can trust it enough to swing hard enough, without fear of skulling it into the lake.

The club will really want to get out of the sand, so keep driving the clubhead down a little more than a "stock" bunker shot.

[Stretch]

I like this video for illustrating the concept of really playing down the slope like Erik describes.

[applejr]

That's a great video, thanks Stretch!

Originally Posted by Stretch

I like this video for illustrating the concept of really playing down the slope like Erik describes.