The Most Frustrating Shot in Golf
Few things in golf are more frustrating than a bladed chip.
You’re just off the green, it should be simple, and then you send it flying 20 metres past the hole.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
Why Bladed Chips Happen
Blading a chip usually comes down to poor contact, not bad luck. Here are the most common causes.
1. Trying to Help the Ball Into the Air
This is the biggest one. A lot of golfers lean back, flick their hands, and try to lift the ball. The club already has loft, you don’t need to help it. That effort to lift usually leads to thin contact and bladed shots.
2. Too Much Tension in the Hands and Forearms
When you’re tense the club gets grabby and your timing becomes inconsistent, so you lose control of the strike. This is something you’ve probably already felt, even if it’s subtle.
3. Poor Weight Position
If your weight is too far back, the bottom of your swing moves with it and the club strikes too high on the ball. The result is a blade.
4. Inconsistent Low Point
Good chipping is about controlling where the club hits the ground. Too early and you chunk it, too late and you blade it. Consistency here is everything.
Simple Fixes That Actually Work
Let’s keep this practical.
Lean Slightly Forward
Weight slightly on your front foot, hands just ahead of the ball. This helps you strike the ball more cleanly.
Let the Club Do the Work
Don’t try to lift it. Think about brushing the grass and let the loft take care of the height.
Reduce Tension
You don’t need to be completely relaxed, but soften your grip and let the club move naturally. This improves your feel instantly. Worn, slippery grips make that much harder than it needs to be, so if yours are shiny it is worth a regrip.
Keep It Simple
The more you try to control everything, the harder it gets. A simple motion means better contact.
A Smarter Option Most Golfers Ignore
Here’s something worth considering: if you can putt it, putt it. From just off the green, putting is more predictable and less can go wrong. We go into this properly in our guide on whether to chip or putt from off the green.
The Real Key: Confidence
A lot of bladed chips come from doubt, overthinking, and a lack of trust. If you’re not confident, simplify the shot. Use a safer option and stick to what you trust.
Want to Fix This Faster?
Short game is one of the quickest ways to lower your scores. If you’re struggling with contact, a bit of guidance goes a long way, and our golf lessons and coaching at Mount Maunganui are built around exactly this sort of thing. Having the right wedge in your hands makes it easier again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I blade chips more under pressure?
Because tension increases and your timing changes.
Should I use a different club to stop blading?
Sometimes, but technique and setup are usually the main issue.
Is blading chips a common problem?
Very common, especially for amateur golfers.
Final Thoughts
Bladed chips aren’t random. They come from trying too hard, poor setup, and a lack of trust. Keep it simple, let the club do the work, and your contact will improve quickly. If you find you’re hitting the ground first instead, have a read of why you keep chunking chips, or work through how to chip consistently.
Happy golfing,
Scott
