The cut punch shot is a great shot for escaping the woods, but you must choose the right situation to use it in. You need a good lie and enough room to make a full backswing. You also need enough room to start the ball left of target, since the shot will bend to the right. If you’re left-handed, you need enough room to start the ball right of target, since the ball will bend left. Also, make sure there’s no trouble in front of your target.
Below are five keys to hitting a cut punch shot:
- Align your stance parallel to the target line
- Make sure you have a weak grip
- Play the ball just inside the left heel
- Begin backswing along line of your stance
- Swing aggressively into back of the ball
The shot of choice for this club is a long iron. A 3-iron or 4-iron is good. Longs irons make it easier to curve the ball. Start by taking a stance that is parallel to where you want the ball flight to start. Then align your club to your target. This set up may seem a little odd, but it creates a naturally weak grip with an open clubface.
Also, make sure the ball is positioned inside your back heel, with your weight favoring your front side. Begin your backswing along the line of your stance and swing aggressively into the back of the ball. Focus on hitting the ball hard with your right hand. You should feel as though you’re hitting the ball straight despite an open clubface.
Plan for the ball to start low and fly along your stance’s line. It should then rise a bit and peel off slightly to the other side. Also, plan for a lot of roll.
Used in the right situation, hitting the cut punch shot can bail you out of trouble. But don’t try to pull off a miracle. If the shot isn’t there, don’t try it. Play it safe instead.