Scoring goals in hockey isn’t just about power—it’s about choosing the right shot at the right time. Two of the most fundamental (and most effective) techniques in the game are the wrist shot and the slap shot. Mastering both allows players to be unpredictable, accurate, and dangerous in any scoring situation.

In this guide, we’ll break down the mechanics, advantages, and best-use scenarios for each shot, then walk you through key drills and tips to develop wrist shot and slap shot mastery—so you can shoot harder, faster, and smarter.

The Wrist Shot: Quick, Accurate, Deadly

What It Is:

The wrist shot is a controlled, accurate release using your wrists and forearms to propel the puck. It’s quick, deceptive, and perfect for shooting while in motion.

How to Do It:

  1. Start with the puck slightly behind your front foot.

  2. Weight Transfer from your back foot to your front foot.

  3. Snap Your Wrists while sliding the puck forward and upward.

  4. Follow Through in the direction of your target.

Advantages:

  • Fast release with minimal windup

  • Highly accurate

  • Effective while skating or under pressure

  • Easier to shoot in tight spaces

When to Use:

  • In close to the net

  • During quick transitions

  • While skating or off the rush

  • When a fast release is more important than raw power

The Slap Shot: Raw Power and Velocity

What It Is:

The slap shot is a powerful, full-body shot that uses maximum force to send the puck flying at high speed. It’s dramatic, intimidating, and great for long-range shooting.

How to Do It:

  1. Wind Up your stick behind you while shifting your weight back.

  2. Strike the Ice just behind the puck to flex your stick.

  3. Transfer Weight explosively to your front foot.

  4. Snap Your Wrists and follow through high and forward.

Advantages:

  • Generates high puck speed

  • Great for shots from the point

  • Effective in setting up rebounds and screens

When to Use:

  • On the power play from the blue line

  • In situations where you have space and time

  • To hammer the puck past a screened goalie

Wrist Shot vs Slap Shot: Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature Wrist Shot Slap Shot
Power Moderate High
Accuracy High Moderate
Release Speed Very Quick Slower
Best for In-motion shooting, close range Blue line shots, one-timers
Ease of Execution Easier to learn and control Requires more practice
Stick Flex Usage Moderate High

Training Drills for Shot Mastery

A. Wrist Shot Drills

  1. Stationary Snap Shooting

    • Place targets on a shooting tarp or net.

    • Practice wrist shots from various distances and angles.

  2. Stride & Shoot

    • Skate a few strides, receive a puck, and shoot in motion.

    • Focus on transferring weight smoothly while keeping your release quick.

  3. Top Corner Challenge

    • Aim for top corners using only wrist shots.

    • Helps refine aim and build muscle memory.

B. Slap Shot Drills

  1. Slap Shot Mechanics

    • Without a puck, practice your windup, weight transfer, and follow-through.

    • Develop consistency in your form.

  2. One-Timer Practice

    • Have a partner or rebound board pass pucks to you.

    • Take slap shots without stopping the puck—focus on timing.

  3. Target Power Drills

    • Hit weighted targets or heavy-duty nets to build shot strength.

    • Use slow-motion video to analyze form and follow-through.

Tips for Better Shooting Technique

  • Use the Right Stick Flex: Too stiff or too soft can reduce shot power and accuracy.

  • Head Up, Eyes Forward: Always track your target—not just the puck.

  • Work on Grip Pressure: Stay relaxed during the shot until the snap.

  • Strengthen Your Core and Wrists: These muscles are key to both shot types.

  • Stay Balanced: A strong base improves accuracy and control.

Off-Ice Shooting Practice

Even without ice, you can practice both shots at home:

  • Use a shooting pad or smooth surface.

  • Replace pucks with weighted balls or plastic pucks.

  • Practice daily for 15–20 minutes focusing on form and consistency.

Conclusion

To be a versatile and dangerous hockey player, you need to master more than one shot. The wrist shot gives you speed and precision. The slap shot brings raw power and intimidation. Together, they make you unpredictable and lethal in all scoring situations.

Focus on form, be consistent in practice, and train both on and off the ice. With time, you’ll be able to read the play and know instinctively which shot to use—and execute it with confidence.