The Flop Without The Flip

There's nothing more frustrating than executing a perfect flop shot on one hole, then flubbing the same shot on the next. That kind of inconsistency is the reason I started teaching a flop shot with limited wrist action. Beats the heck out of the classic flop swing, which is very wristy; too much can go wrong.

Here's how I play the new flop. Using a 60- or 64-degree wedge, I set up with the ball fairly forward in a wide and slightly open stance. The clubface is open to my stance but aligned at the target. I pre-set my weight a little to my left and position my hands really low, between my legs, farther from the ball -- a little extra knee bend helps. From there, I make a pretty steep backswing, setting my wrists early. Then -- and this is the key -- I maintain that wrist angle through impact by keeping my left arm close to my chest as I swing through. I don't really maintain the angle, but that's the feeling.

Try it: Just set your wrists going back and then turn your body through, keeping your head still. You'll use the bounce of the club so it slides along the ground instead of digs. You'll make consistent contact for a high and soft shot.

Start with miniature pitches, then progress to this modified flop. Remember: The lower your hands, the higher you'll hit these little shots