What Weight Disc Should Beginners Throw?

If you're shopping for your first disc golf disc, you've probably noticed numbers like 167g, 170g, or 175g printed on the bottom.

So, does the weight actually matter?

The short answer is yes—but it's only part of the story. Disc weight affects how a disc feels, how it handles the wind, and how easy it is to throw. But the disc's mold, plastic, and your throwing technique usually have a bigger impact on its flight.

Does Disc Weight Matter?

Yes, but the difference is often smaller than beginners expect.

In general:

• Lighter discs are easier to get up to speed, making them a great option for players with slower arm speeds.
• Heavier discs carry more momentum and tend to resist being pushed around by the wind.

One important thing to remember is that weight does not determine a disc's stability. Whether a disc is overstable, stable, or understable is primarily determined by its mold and plastic—not by a few grams of weight.

What Weight Should Beginners Use?

For most new players, 165–170 grams is an excellent place to start.

Discs in this range are light enough to throw comfortably while still providing predictable flights.

As a general guideline:

• Putters: 160–170g is the most common range, though some beginners may prefer slightly lighter options depending on comfort and throwing style.
• Midranges: 160–170g.
• Fairway and distance drivers: 165–170g.

There's no perfect number, though. Comfort and confidence matter more than chasing a specific weight.

Should You Buy the Lightest Disc Available?

Not necessarily.

Very lightweight discs can be easier to throw and may help beginners gain distance. However, they're also more affected by windy conditions and can become less predictable.

If your local courses are calm, lighter discs can be a great learning tool. If you frequently play in the wind, choosing a slightly heavier version of the same disc may provide better control.

Do Professional Players Throw Max-Weight Discs?

Many professional players prefer discs in the 173–175g range because they generate enough power to benefit from the added consistency and wind resistance.

That doesn't mean beginners should copy that setup.

Professional players throw much faster and with significantly better technique, so matching their weights won't automatically improve your game.

Fun fact: The PDGA allows discs up to a maximum legal weight of 200g, but most manufacturers stop around 175–176g for many molds. When players refer to a "max-weight" driver, they're almost always talking about a disc around 175g.

Weight Isn't Everything

Disc type matters just as much as weight.

For example, a lightweight overstable distance driver can still be difficult for a beginner to throw because of its design. In many cases, choosing a beginner-friendly or understable mold will make a bigger difference than changing the weight.

When shopping for your first discs, look for:

• Beginner-friendly molds
• Neutral or understable flight characteristics
• A comfortable plastic with good grip (many beginners enjoy base plastics because they're affordable and easy to hold)
• Weights around 165–170g

Remember, choosing the right mold is usually more important than choosing the perfect weight.

A Simple Beginner Setup

You don't need a huge collection of discs to get started.

A simple three-disc setup works well for most beginners:

• Understable fairway driver (165–170g): Easy distance and learning proper form.
• Straight-flying midrange (165–170g): Controlled approaches and accurate shots.
• Stable putter (160–170g): Putting and short throws around the basket.

Master these before expanding your bag.

Focus on Form First

Your throwing technique matters far more than a few grams of weight.

Smooth timing, a clean release, and consistent follow-through will improve your game much faster than constantly experimenting with different weights.

As your skills develop, you'll naturally discover which weights and molds work best for your style.

Final Thoughts

For most beginners, 165–170 grams is the sweet spot.

If you're deciding between two weights, don't overthink it—a difference of just 2–3 grams is unlikely to noticeably affect your game.

Choose beginner-friendly discs, focus on building good form, and spend more time throwing than worrying about the numbers stamped on the bottom. As you gain experience, you'll naturally discover which weights and molds feel best for your game.

Looking for Beginner-Friendly Discs?

The right equipment can make learning disc golf much more enjoyable.

Whether you're buying your first disc or building your first bag, explore our collection of beginner-friendly discs and starter sets to find gear that's easy to throw, forgiving to learn with, and fun to play.