In this post I’ll be covering the difference between Chipping vs. Pitching in Golf! These two terms are definitely categorized as golf essentials for beginners.
Oftentimes, we hear of average players who are amazing with the long shots but utterly dismal with their short game.
If by some sad circumstance, the ball lands on the rough, the ball might as well be immovable. Trying to get it away from the short grass around the green is an entirely different dilemma!
As important as working on your swing speed and power is, do not make the mistake of neglecting your short game.
Chipping vs. Pitching In Golf: What’s the Difference?
In this article, we’ll go over two types of shots that are often misconstrued but entirely separate. Though not easy to master, getting the hang of these shots can greatly improve your game overall.
What is a Chip Shot?
In simple terms, a pitch shot is a low shot that doesn’t spend too much time in the air. They are shots usually taken close to the green to have it land on the green and roll towards the hole.
This can be achieved with a variety of different clubs from wedges down to as low as a #7 iron.
For the chip shot, it is considered a one-lever move. Most of the shoulders are used here without any hinging of the wrists.
What is a Pitch Shot?
A pitch shot is the opposite of a chip shot in that the ball spends a little more time in the air but does not roll as much. Pitch shots also hit farther, reaching distances close to 30 yards.
To make a pitch shot, you will need higher lofted clubs like a 54, 56, 58, or 60-degree loft utility wedge.
The pitch shot is considered a two-lever movement. Both the trunk (arms) and the wrist are used to create a higher arch and more rotation.
It should be noted though that both types of shots are primarily used for getting a ball into the green or for escaping the rough.
Should you Chip or Pitch?
Knowing which set to use either one of the shots is just as important as knowing how to do the shots themselves.
Here are the following things you should keep in mind:
Skill level
A chip shot is very much easier to perform than a pitch shot. There is more room for mistakes with the pitch shot so it’s recommended you master chipping first to have a natural progression towards pitching.
Lie
According to Coolclubs.com, The lie angle is a static measurement that is formed between the center of the shaft and the sole of the clubhead when the club is measured in normal playing position with the center of the sole touching the ground line. If the grooves on your iron lay parallel with the turf at impact, you’re looking at a proper lie angle which will produce straighter shots more consistently.
If you can see the back of the ball, and you’re in a fairly good spot on the rough, then chipping is the way to go. But if you’re in a poor lie meaning taking a clean shot is a bit difficult, then you’re better off pitching so that you can get the ball on better grounds.
Distance from the green
If you’re near the green then take a chip shot. If you’re some distance from the green that a chip shot can’t cover, then pitch.
Bottom Line…
And that was all you needed to know about the difference between Chipping vs. Pitching. Though not things you can pick up in a day, being proficient in these kinds of shots can put you miles ahead of other players. It might just give you the edge you need to end every round victorious!