Gap Wedge
The gap wedge is a wedge that closes the distance gap between the pitching wedge and the sand wedge.
The gap wedge arose from a practical problem. Modern irons sets have ever stronger lofts; the pitching wedge thereby flew further, the sand wedge stayed the same. Between both a gap of often 20 metres and more arose. The gap wedge, also called approach wedge or attack wedge, closes exactly this gap. Its Loft usually lies between 50 and 54 degrees, thus between the about 46 degrees of the pitching wedge and the 56 degrees of the classic sand wedge. In the bag of many golfers it carries the marking "G", "A" or "52".
On the course the gap wedge is the club for distances between 80 and 110 metres, depending on swing strength. Example: your ball lies 95 metres in front of the flag, the green is protected at the front by a bunker. With the pitching wedge you would have to swing softly, with the sand wedge pull fully through, both imprecise. The gap wedge hits the distance with a normal swing and enough height to let the ball land softly. It is also suitable for long chips from the apron and for pitches out of the light Rough.
The typical mistake is the attempt to play the gap wedge with the same full swing as the irons. The high loft produces a lot of Backspin; full swings often let the ball rise too high and turn back unpredictably. Better are controlled three-quarter swings with a calm rhythm. Anyone who does not know the exact distances of their wedges should measure them once systematically on the Driving Range — in the short game, ten metres decide between pars and bogeys.
FAQ
For which distances do I use the gap wedge?
The gap wedge is the club for distances between about 80 and 110 metres, depending on swing strength. It closes the gap between pitching wedge and sand wedge, which with modern iron sets is often 20 metres and more. With a normal swing you hit the distance more accurately than if you have to play another club softly or pull fully through.
Why does my ball turn back so strongly with the gap wedge?
The high loft produces a lot of backspin — full swings often let the ball rise too high and turn back unpredictably. Better are controlled three-quarter swings with a calm rhythm. That way the ball lands softly but predictably.
How do I find out the exact distances of my wedges?
Measure them once systematically on the driving range — hit several balls with each wedge with full and three-quarter swing and note the carry distances. Especially in the short game ten metres decide between pars and bogeys. Anyone who knows their figures no longer chooses on the course by feel.