Start Line Control
A SimSights metric that measures the percentage of shots where the ball's initial direction stays within ±3° of your target line.
Full Definition
Start Line Control is a SimSights-specific consistency metric that measures what percentage of your shots launch within ±3° of the target line (the same window for all clubs, from driver through wedges). Since the ball starts roughly 75–85% in the direction the face is pointing at impact, this metric primarily reflects face angle consistency at impact. A high Start Line Control percentage means you're consistently starting the ball where you intend, which is a prerequisite for accurate shots regardless of curvature.
Optimal RangeGeneral guidance based on tour averages. Your optimal range depends on swing speed, physical attributes, and individual technique. Many golfers succeed with metrics outside these ranges.
70%+ is strong, 50–69% is developing, below 50% indicates poor directional aim
Why It Matters
Even with good face-to-path control (consistent curvature), if your start line wanders you'll miss targets. Start line control answers: "Am I consistently aiming the clubface where I intend?" It's measured separately from face control because you could have a consistent draw that starts too far right every time.
Related Terms
Start Line
The initial direction the ball travels immediately after impact.
Face Angle
The direction the clubface is pointing at impact, relative to target.
Face Control
A SimSights metric that measures the percentage of shots where your face-to-path angle stays within ±2.5° — indicating consistent shot shape.
Consistency Score
An overall percentage rating of how repeatable your swing is, combining face control, start line, strike quality, and dispersion.
Launch Direction
The horizontal direction the ball starts relative to the target line.
How SimSights Helps
SimSights automatically tracks your start line control across all your shots, showing you trends over time and comparing your numbers to tour benchmarks. Our AI analysis explains what your start line control means for your specific swing.
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