Want to play smarter golf and lower your scores?
Let’s talk about the part of the game that drives most golfers absolutely nuts—those short shots around the green.
You know the ones: 30 yards out, a little too far to putt (or so you think), and you’re stuck deciding between your lob wedge, sand wedge, or that trusty 8-iron.
And let’s be real, sometimes you pick the wrong one… and the ball barely makes it onto the green—or worse, you blade it into the next zip code.
But here’s the deal: you don’t need to be a short game wizard to get up and down.
You just need to stop making it harder than it has to be. And that’s where this simple little chart comes in.
If You’re a Scratch Golfer (Or Just Play Like One Sometimes)
Go ahead, pull out that 60-degree lob wedge. You’ve put in the hours, you know how to open the face, hit it high, land it soft, and make it stop like it’s got brakes.
You’re the guy or gal who can clip it clean, get spin on command, and make short-sided pins look easy.
But even then, don’t get too fancy. If there’s a simple shot available—take it.
Being scratch doesn’t mean you need to show off every time. (Unless someone’s filming. Then, obviously, go for it.)
0-5 Handicap – The Sweet Spot Between Confidence & Caution
Alright, you’re good.
You’ve got the skills to hit some impressive shots, but you also know that one wrong move with the lob wedge can turn into a chili-dipped nightmare.
That’s why the 54-58 degree wedge is your best friend here.
It gives you versatility.
Need a little height?
Easy.
Want to keep it lower and let it release?
Done.
You’ve got options, but most importantly, you’ve got control.
Use it wisely.
5-10 Handicap – Time to Play It Smart
This is where a lot of golfers live—good enough to go low, bad enough to make dumb decisions sometimes (we’ve all been there).
If there’s even the slightest chance you can putt this ball, DO IT.
No shame in using the flat stick from the fringe, fairway, or wherever it makes sense.
If the putter’s off the table, grab a pitching wedge or a 54-degree and keep it simple.
Don’t try to hit Phil Mickelson-level flop shots.
You don’t need that kind of drama in your life.
10-15 Handicap – Less Loft, More Consistency
You want the easiest path to lowering your score?
Stop grabbing the lob wedge for every short shot.
USE A PUTTER!!
There.
I said it.
If not then, this is where the good ol’ 8-iron comes into play.
It’s perfect for bump-and-runs—get the ball on the ground and rolling like a putt ASAP.
If you must use a wedge, ask yourself: “Do I really, really need to use a wedge here?”
No one’s handing out style points.
All anyone cares about is the final score.
15+ Handicap – Let’s Keep This Really Simple
Alright, let’s cut to the chase.
Your number one goal here is avoiding disaster.
Forget the fancy wedges and stick to clubs that keep the ball low and rolling
Putter first!
And if the surface is smooth enough, grab the putter.
I don’t care if you’re 30 yards out—if it works, it works.
5 to 8-iron is your go-to for bump-and-runs.
If you’re in this range, I highly recommend checking out this YouTube video on smarter short game strategies for higher handicaps.
It breaks down how simplifying your approach around the green can shave serious strokes off your score.
Instead of trying to be flashy, the video emphasizes how using a putter and focusing on consistent contact can instantly make your short game more reliable.
Seriously, give it a watch—it could be the game-changer you’ve been looking for.
Quick Tips for Short Game Success:
- Putt whenever possible. Seriously, no one’s judging you.
- If you can’t putt it, bump it. Get the ball rolling sooner—air time is risky time.
- Don’t be a hero. Choose the highest percentage shot, not the one that looks coolest.
- Practice. I know, I know, but 30 minutes on the practice green will save you 3-5 strokes.
The Bottom Line:
The short game is where the magic happens—and where rounds go to die.
But it doesn’t have to be complicated.
Play smart, pick the right club for your game (not someone else’s), and watch your scores drop.
And hey, if you still want to try that Phil Mickelson flop once in a while… go for it.
Just don’t say I didn’t warn you.
