Improving your scores often starts with better distance control on wedge shots, and a focused drill can make that difference.
Drew Stoltz, co‑host of GOLF’s Subpar Podcast, recommends a simple “ladder drill” to sharpen wedge performance.
In the recent Emergency 9 episode, sponsored by Cobra, Stoltz explains how he uses the drill with his Cobra King wedges.
“The drill is designed to improve wedge distance control,” Stoltz says. “All you need is a handful of balls and a chipping green. Repeating it before a round can noticeably boost your short game.”
Here’s how to run the drill:
“Choose a spot on the green that offers plenty of room,” Stoltz advises. “Gather a few balls, step off the green, and pick one wedge. The objective is to land as many balls on the green as possible, with each successive shot landing shorter than the previous one.
“For example, the first shot aims just inside the back fringe without overshooting. The next shot should land nearer the previous ball but must be shorter.”
Cobra 2026 King Custom Irons
Continue moving down the “ladder” until a shot lands past the previous one. The number of balls you place on the green before that failure becomes your score. Pick up the balls and try to beat that score on the next attempt.
“This exercise fine‑tunes your distance control,” Stoltz notes. “You’ll learn to produce a variety of shot shapes—low runners, high soft shots—using the same club, which is invaluable for the short game.”
Watch the full video above for a detailed demonstration.