How to Correct a Drive Slice

The slice shot with the driver is a common shot among amateur golfers. A slice is any shot that curves hard to the right in the air (for a right-handed player). Golfers often find themselves in the woods after hitting a slice.

A slice shot is caused by a poor grip and setup, an outside-to-in downswing path and an open clubface.

An outside-to-in path occurs when the golfer reaches too far on the downside, bringing the club down to the right of the ball (outside), relative to the target line. This forces him to pull the clubhead closer (inside) to strike the ball on the tee. An open clubface means the clubface points to the right of the target at impact.

To eliminate the slice you need the proper grip and setup, an inside-to-out downswing path and a square clubface. After making these corrections you can enjoy a slice-free golf game.

Grip the club with the left hand first (again, for a right-handed golfer). Position the grip mainly in the fingers of your left hand. With the club grounded, you should be able to see at least two knuckles of your left hand as you look down at the club. Golfers with a big slice should strive to see three knuckles of the left hand. The "V" formed by your left index finger and thumb should point toward your right shoulder. Set your right-hand grip to compliment the left. The "V" formed by your right index finger and thumb should also point to your right shoulder.

Swing the club back until you see your left shoulder under your chin.

Your shoulder turn and backswing are complete once you get the left shoulder under your chin. With the proper shoulder turn you can swing the club down on an inside-to-out path.