Last updated on September 19th, 2023 at 08:45 am
Last updated by Maredith Damasco
As a beginner, I found overstable discs challenging to throw. Looking back, I realize it’s a common experience for inexperienced players with limited form and technique. However, new disc golfers can save many strokes by learning to use overstable discs as utility discs rather than focusing solely on distance, realizing their value when thrown correctly.
I must admit that an overstable disc is best used and recommended for power throwers that bring substantial experience. The results will usually be disappointing for inexperienced players, with the disc fading early and the desired distance not achieved. But it should not be this way because there are things that inexperienced players can do in terms of learning the technique and the right way to throw an overstable disc.
In this article, we will be sharing tips and recommendations on the right way to throw an overstable disc. This article is geared towards inexperienced players looking to improve their game and their form and technique.
What is an Overstable Disc?
In terms of flight rating, overstable discs typically have a higher fade rating than a high-speed turn number. If you’re unfamiliar with the flight rating system, it’s essential to learn how it works, as it can assist you in distinguishing between overstable and understable discs. An overstable disc will initially fly straight before fading left at the end of the flight, turning opposite to the spin of a right-hand-backhand (RHBH) thrower.
In other words, when a player throws using the RHBH, the disc will be spinning right and then turn to the left. This situation will happen in reverse if the player is left-handed and throwing the opposite way. Also, there are other traits that an overstable disc will show:
- The more the disc is overstable, the greater is the chance for the disc to turn to the opposite direction of the spin
- The more overstable the disc is, the greater the wind that the disc can handle
- The overstable disc is a perfect choice if you look for a disc that finishes on the left
- Strong-arm high-speed throwers typically use overstable discs
- Overstable discs work well against the wind
- The overstable disc works well on skip shots
- The higher the speed of the release of an overstable disc, the lesser the sharpness of its turn
If a disc golfer has gained some experience in the game, I suggest having an overstable disc in their bag. Also, power throwers with experienced can use overstable discs during the game and expect some good results.
How to Throw Overstable Discs
What we are going to show you is how to use different types of overstable discs in different situations. Whether it is a putter, midranges, or drivers, each of these overstable discs can work in your favor if you know how to use them.
Overstable Putter
Using the backhand with an overstable putter will give you a strong fade to the left. But there is an alternative that you can do in a situation where you can’t use your backhand but can stretch out behind or around the tree. You can use a forehand and throw it at a 45-degree angle and wait for the overstability to flatten it out and bring it to the right again and land in your desired destination.
Overstable Midranges
When throwing overstable midranges, it works the same with the putter. However, these discs are used at a further distance which should be longer than the range of the putter.
Overstable Fairways/Drivers
The key determinant when throwing overstable fairways or drivers is arm speed. For instance, a disc may appear highly overstable with a slower arm speed but more understandable with faster arm speed. Thus, the perceived overstability of a disc can be subjective and depends on the player’s arm speed.
If you try to get the maximum distance using an overstable driver, you need to lean back while throwing a hard flex line, and the stability of the disc will let it ride. And then it will start to pan out flat and then come back to the left. That is the best way to get the maximum distance using an overstable driver.
Flex throw will get you a reasonable distance, as I mentioned earlier, but there is another way to achieve maximum distance. You can throw it in a flat to hyzer angle and let the disc just ride to the left. In that way, if you go straight and then turn, you can just pull out your overstable disc in your bag and know it will just finish left for you every time you throw.
Other Ways to Throw an Overstable Disc
Skip Shots
An advantageous aspect of overstable discs is their ability to hit the ground at a 45-degree angle, known as a skip. This can provide a forward skip and some added distance when it lands at either a forehand or backhand angle.
Hyzer Spikes
This shot is one of the more advanced throws that professional players make while using an overstable disc. You need to go up over some trees when you do not have a forward shot when throwing the disc. So, you get your overstable disc and put it as much hyzer as you can while throwing it as high as you can and let the disc go over the trees and let the stability of the disc helps in crushing the disc towards the basket.
Conclusion
Explore various ways to utilize overstable discs in your game. Master utility shots that harness their overstability, moving beyond just throwing for maximum distance. While challenging initially, dedicated practice and a drive to learn can significantly enhance your form and skills in disc golf.
