The pinch shot is a situational shot that can be used for either offensive or defensive purposes, and should be a regular part of your racquetball arsenal.  Here is how, and when, to execute a pristine pinch shot:

1. The shot itself: A "perfect" pinch shot will hit the side wall about three feet from the front wall and will be kept very low to the ground.  The goal of the pinch shot is to deflect the ball off the side wall and then the front wall, with the resulting ball direction heading towards the opposite sidewall.  Employed with an offensive mindset, the pinch shot will force your opponent to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time and will usually generate a winner opportunity for you.  Defensively, the shot can be used to change the pace of a rally or to keep your opponent on their toes (if you rarely use the shot).

2. Court position dictates the shot: You do not want to use a pinch shot if your opponent is in front of you because the ball remains in the front court for the entirety of the pinch shot.  Thus, if a pinch shot is used with your opponent in front of you, your opposition will have an easy time returning the shot.  Another key to the pinch shot is hitting the sidewall closest to your opponent.  Since the ball deflects away from this sidewall after it hits the front wall, hitting the sidewall closest to your opponent increases the distance he/she must cover to return the shot.

3. Use your typical swing mechanics: Follow through the ball, aim for your spot on the sidewall, and maintain the look of your normal stroke.  That last part will be a bit difficult; remember, we want to keep this shot low, so it is only natural that your approach or swing may vary from your normal stroke.  But do the best you can to mask your delivery.  This will maximize deception and allow you the ability to recover if you make a less-than-desired pinch shot.