Couldn't agree with you more about the bounce angle playing a big part of getting out of the sand. I'd be willing to wager that 1/2 the problems golfers have playing from the sand is having the wrong bounce angle for the type of sand they are playing from. The sand here is quite firm, and my first SW had 14* of bounce. Never did learn to hit it well with the face open. Ground off the back half of the sole and it became a piece of cake to use. Soft sand and 14* of bounce is fine. Firm sand and 7* to 8* is much better.

Thanks, Don. (And sorry for a very late response. I have been travelling.) Bounce angle is definitely something that more golfers need to address with their wedges. Even knowledgable golf people, pros, etc. don't spend enough time on this, educating their students, learning it for themselves, etc. Glad you have found your ideal "angles." Cheers.
Andrew