The pitching wedge is a versatile golf club that plays an important role in a player’s club selection, golf technique, and performance on the course. This type of wedge is often used to get out of tight spots on the golf course, creating spin on the ball, and controlling distance. A golf pitching wedge also provides accuracy and control shot-making which is why many golfers rely heavily on this club to lower their golf scores.
What is a Pitching Wedge?
A pitching wedge is a type of golf club featuring an angled face, a wide sole, and a shorter shaft length compared to other clubs in the set. The lower-lofted club is used to hit short-range shots and can be used with a variety of swing techniques. Many golfers refer to pitching wedges as their “go to” club when playing the game. Technically, a pitching wedge is a club with a loft angle of 46-48 degrees. It resides between an 8-iron and a sand wedge in the golf bag.
A pitching wedge is often identified by its oversized head that features plenty of bounce, making it easy to hit shots from soft lies or uneven terrain. The width of the sole makes it difficult to hit shots onto the green from tight lies. Unlike irons, wedges have thicker club faces, promoting more backspin on the golf ball when struck cleanly.
What is the Loft Angle of a Pitching Wedge?
The loft angle of most pitching wedges is between 46-48 degrees. In some cases, the angle may differ, which is dependent on the golf companies who manufacture the clubs. The loft angle will determine how far the ball will travel and the time that it will stay in the air. A pitching wedge with a higher loft angle will drastically reduce the distance that the ball travels.
“The higher the loft angle the shorter the ball travels, so the 48 degree wedge brings the ball down quickly while the lower lofted wedges keep the ball in the air longer,” said Ed Stauffer, PGA Professional.
Also, the degree of loft will change ball trajectory differently, as the lower lofted wedge will launch the ball higher, while a higher lofted wedge will often cause the ball to travel on a lower path.
How Can I Use a Pitching Wedge in Golf?
From the Fairway
When using a pitching wedge from the fairway, remember to use a downward hit. This will ensure that the ball will land on the green or other intended target with a bit of backspin, as opposed to spinning off the intended area. It is also important to take into consideration whether you are on the green to determine the amount of force needed to hit the ball.
From the Rough
A pitching wedge needs slightly increased force when the ball is situated in even a light rough. Getting too steep in the backswing is inadvisable, as it can cause a pop-up, leaving the ball falling short of its intended target, or even worse, travelling back towards the origin of the shot in a shank.
From the Bunker
Aiming to get the ball close to the green requires quite a bit of backspin when hitting with a pitching wedge out of the bunker. One of the most important things to remember when playing out of the bunker with a pitching wedge is to focus on accelerating through the ball and completely squaring the clubface due to the high risk of hitting the ball fat and sending it further from the intended target.
From the Sand
The most effective way to hit a sand wedge is by using a descending blow. This will ensure the ball goes directly to the intended target and does not get caught up in the sand. When using a pitching wedge from the sand, it is important to maintain grip pressure throughout the shot and make sure that the hands are used to control the club head.
Conclusion
The pitch wedge has a well-deserved reputation as the shot-saver. Its versatile design is attractive to golfers of all skill sets. With its wide sole, lower loft angle, and shorter shaft length, it is a powerful club that can deliver accurate shots that pack a lot of spin. The pitch wedge is a great choice for golfers relying on precision and accuracy when aiming short-range shots.