It's frustrating when the prize you've expertly maneuvered gets stuck on the way to the chute. Here are practical tips to stop that from happening. First, observe the machine's layout. Avoid prizes piled too high against the glass or those tangled with others. Target items that are isolated and sitting upright. Second, master the claw's drop. Position it directly over the center of the item, not its edges. A centered grab provides better balance. Third, understand the claw's strength. Most machines have a timed grip that weakens. Use the joystick to gently "drag" or nudge the prize toward the chute opening immediately after the grab, rather than lifting it straight up. This sliding motion can prevent it from catching on the drop shelf. For plush toys, aim to grab them by the body or a sturdy tag, not a loose limb. For boxes, try to get the claw under a corner. Finally, be patient. Sometimes, a prior player's near-miss has left a prize in a tricky spot. Choose a different target. With careful selection and controlled movement, you can guide your prize smoothly to the win slot.