How to get out of a bunker

The situation

The ball stays in the bunker, or it flies over the green. Both usually come from trying to pick the ball off the top of the sand. In a greenside bunker the clubhead enters the sand just behind the ball and keeps moving through it, and the ball rides out on the sand.

Keep the club above the sand at address. Do not touch the sand with the club right in front of or behind the ball, in a practice swing or in the backswing; that costs the general penalty (source: R&A Rules of Golf, Rule 12.2b).

The fix

1. 01
   Open the face, then take the grip Turn the clubface open a little first, then hold the club. The sole then slides through the sand instead of digging.
2. 02
   Dig the feet in, ball a little forward Work the feet into the sand for balance. The ball sits a little forward of center, and the weight favors the lead foot.
3. 03
   Look at the sand behind the ball Pick a spot in the sand just behind the ball and look at it, not at the ball. That spot is where the club enters.
4. 04
   Swing through the sand to a full finish Keep the clubhead moving through the sand. Stopping at the sand is how the ball stays in the bunker.
5. 05
   Five balls in a practice bunker Repeat the line check with a ball. The win is the ball out and on the green, not close to the hole. Distance comes later.

Bunker shot checklist

1. Sand wedge, face slightly open before you grip.
2. Wide stance, feet wriggled into the sand for balance.
3. Ball just forward of center.
4. Pick a spot about two inches behind the ball and hit it.
5. Swing through to a full finish; do not stop at the sand.

Bunker FAQ

Can I touch the sand before I hit?

Not with the club in front of or behind the ball, and not to test the sand; under the Rules of Golf that is a penalty. You may dig your feet in to take your stance.

What if the ball is buried?

Square or slightly close the face, play the ball a little further back, and hit down steeply behind it. It will come out lower and run more.

What if I can't get it out?

Play out sideways to the flattest part of the bunker edge, or toward the widest part of the green. Two in the bunker is better than four.