If you’re looking to perfect your golf game, learning to hit a low punch shot can be a game-changer. This shot can be particularly useful in windy conditions or when you need to keep the ball under low branches. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to hit a perfect low punch shot in golf.
What is a punch shot in golf?
A Punch Shot or some time referred as the Knockdown Punch Shot in golf is basically a low shot that doesn’t go high when it is hit and travels in strong wind or if you want to punch through some trees or branches upfront.
When you play a punch shot in golf?
When you have trees or some obstacles in front of your way and you need to punch through the golf ball with a low trajectory shot like the punch shot.
Also, in strong winds you can play a punch shot to make your shot go straight. If you need a medium distance to fly in low then punch shot is your key in these situations.
Is Punch Shot & Knockdown Shot same?
There’s not much difference but punch shot is different from a knockdown shot in the intent. Although golfer prefers a golf ball to travel low and hit the targeted area as accurately as they can. The key differences are below:
| Shot Name | Character |
|---|---|
| Knockdown Shot | 1. Less backswing and controlled spin. 2. Starts low then slowly climbs mid high and travels low. 3. High speed swing. 4. Medium distance. |
| Punch Shot | 1. More backswing. 2. Starts low to high and then starts stabilizing travel to low. 3. Mid-high speed swing. 4. More distance. |
Related: Knockdown vs Punch vs Stinger Shot
How To Hit A Perfect Low Punch Shot
There are two ways to play the low punch shot in golf:
1. Ball Back Punch Shot 2. Weight Forward Punch Shot
1. Ball Back Punch Shot
Its nothing different from another shot but you need to put the ball back in your stance.
It gives you more comfort in feeling that the ball is a lot closer and you can control the height. A controlled swing is going to play the key role here and you’ll be able to have a low trajectory shot.
But it needs practice and the only bad side of this is that your aiming needs to be accurate otherwise you can slice or hook the shot.
Stance
When it comes to adjusting your posture, there are no significant changes required. Simply shift the ball towards the rear of your stance, just behind the center.
This adjustment decreases the loft, resulting in a lower and more manageable trajectory. However, be cautious as it may also cause a slight increase in the chance of the clubface opening.
You’ll also want to position your feet closer together than you would for a standard shot.
CLUB
From 100-150 yards from the green, you should choose a 6-iron. As said before, controlled swing is going to be the key and 6 iron will help than a 7 or 8 iron.
This way the shot will make the ball reach target while keeping the amount of backspin you create.
As a guideline, I would suggest If you choose to place the ball farther back in your stance, use a club that is only slightly longer.
Aim & Swing
Swing is going to matter in order to reach the possible target with a good low fly.
You should aim to hit the ball a little up from the bottom line, lower than the middle.
keep little backswing but not so little otherwise it will become a knockdown shot.
Before going out on the course, it is advisable to practice this technique on the driving range. If you find yourself consistently hitting pushes, adjust your aim slightly to the left compared to your usual alignment. Once you’ve made this adjustment, proceed with your swing as you normally would with follow.
2. Weight Forward Punch Shot
Weight forward punch shot is nothing different in terms of your stance or ball position. Its the regular ball position and shot but just need to put weight or force into your front foot while shooting. This helps you to swing down and have more power.
Stance
To adopt the “weight forward” technique, there are no initial changes in posture. Begin with your regular address position.
Then, gently shift your weight onto your front foot, ensuring that approximately 60 to 65 percent of your weight is distributed there. It is crucial to maintain this weight distribution throughout your backswing, without transferring it onto your back foot as you would in a typical full swing.
CLUB
From 150 yards from the green, again you should choose a 5 or 6-iron with lower loft.
This will help you to keep the ball low to the ground and avoid getting too much height on the shot.
When playing weight forward punch shot, you may need to use a club that is one or two clubs longer.
Aim & Swing
Your swing becomes slightly more vertical during the backswing when you put the weight forward on your front foot. This adjustment allows you to bring the club back towards the ball on a steeper path, facilitating a punch-like impact and a lower ball trajectory.
Additionally, gripping the club a few centimeters down will provide you with added control and further enhance the slightly more vertical swing.
I play with a three-quarter length backswing with a good shoulder turn. You should have a shorter backswing but not as short as you’re thinking.
Punch the ball away and follow through to the same length as your backswing. As you swing through the ball, keep your hands ahead of the clubhead to ensure a downward strike.
Remember to control your speed, you don’t need to hard hit it otherwise it will be a Stinger shot.
Assessing the Situation
The first step to hitting a perfect low punch shot is to assess the situation. Look at the wind direction, speed, and any obstacles that may be in your way, such as trees or bunkers. Once you have a good understanding of the situation, you can adjust your stance and club selection accordingly.
Practicing Your Low Punch Shot
Like any golf shot, hitting a perfect low punch shot takes practice. Start by practicing on the driving range, focusing on your stance, club selection, and swing technique. Once you feel confident, take your low punch shot to the course and use it in real-world situations.
Tips for Hitting a Perfect Low Punch Shot
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind as you work on your low punch shot:
- Don’t make so little backswing. Just play like normal with a slightly short backswing than usual.
- Keep your head down and your eyes on the ball throughout your swing.
- Aim for the middle of the green to ensure that you have a good chance of hitting the target
- Don’t try to hit the ball too hard – focus on making solid contact and letting the club do the work
Hitting a perfect low punch shot in golf can take your game to the next level. By assessing the situation, adjusting your stance and club selection, and practicing your swing, you can master this valuable shot and improve your overall golf game.
FAQs
Can I hit a low punch shot with any club?
While you can technically hit a low punch shot with any club, using a club with a lower loft will make it easier to keep the ball low to the ground. Choose a 6-iron in 100-150 yards shots if using irons.
How do I adjust my stance for a low punch shot?
Position the ball further back in your stance than you would for a standard shot, and position your feet closer together.
What should I focus on when making my swing?
Take a medium to shot backswing, keep your hands ahead of the clubhead, and practice the aim to make your swing more comfortable.
