Full Wedge Shot (Gap or Sand Wedge)
Full-swing approaches from 60–85 yards with the gap wedge, 50–70 yards with the sand wedge.
Grip
Light grip pressure. Firm wrists through impact.
Stance
Slightly narrower than normal. Feet slightly open to the target (left foot pulled back slightly).
Ball position
Center or just back of center.
Posture
Stand slightly closer to the ball than with longer irons. Upright posture.
Swing thought
Accelerate through — never decelerate on a wedge. Smooth, complete follow-through to high finish.
Contact goal
Ball first, firm contact. High, soft-landing ball flight with enough backspin to hold the green.
Common mistake
Choking on the swing — slowing down at impact to 'guide' the ball. This is the cardinal sin of wedge play.
One-minute drill
Hit 5 full gap wedge shots focusing only on completing a high finish. If your finish is low, you decelerated.
This is a beginner refresher, not professional instruction — see a PGA pro for swing changes.