As the name implies, a golfer uses a sand wedge to stroke a golf ball from a sand bunker, also known as a sand trap, bunker or hazard. Designed in 1930 by Gene Sarazen the short-shafted sand wedge is often the heaviest of the 14 clubs, weighing nearly 40 ounces (1150 grams) with a typical loft angle of 54 to 56 degrees.
Since the sand wedge is a shorter club, use it to establish rhythm. The head is heavier than the other irons and this alone makes it difficult to swing hard and jerky. In my teaching I like the student to understand the leading edge of the wedge stays connected to the body's movement throughout the swing from address through impact. As you turn, the arms, hands, body and leading edge all travel in unison.