Disc golf is a simple game on the surface: throw the disc from the tee to the basket in as few throws as possible. But once you’re out on the course, you quickly realize there’s usually a tree, a fence, a branch, or a bush (or all of the above) standing between you and your goal.
That’s where learning different ways to throw disc golf discs becomes a game-changer.
Whether you’re navigating tight fairways, throwing from a knee, or threading a disc through a narrow window, having more than one throwing technique in your toolkit opens up the course in ways most new players don’t expect. Below, I’ll walk through the most useful throwing styles, when to use them, and how certain Divergent discs shine with each throwing style.
Backhand Throw
The backhand is the standard throw for most players and the easiest to start with. Grip the disc with your thumb on top and your fingers underneath, then rotate your hips, reach back, and pull the disc through flat across your chest.
For right-handed throwers, a backhand naturally finishes left. It offers control and max distance when executed correctly.
Backhand Tips:
- Keep the disc level at release.
- Watch the disc in your hand to stay focused.
- Pull through in a straight line (no rounding).
- Follow through for added power and accuracy.
If you’re looking for a straight-flying fairway driver to learn your backhand with, the Kraken is your best friend.
Forehand Throw (Sidearm or Flick)
The forehand throw fades right for right-handers and is ideal for shaping shots around obstacles. You’ll grip the disc with your index finger along the inside rim, thumb on top, and snap your wrist as you throw.
This throw can be easier from a standstill and is especially useful when you need to throw without turning your back to the target. It also helps if you’re pinched against a tree or bush and need to throw with one arm stretched way out.
Discs like the Minotaur are excellent for forehands. It’s overstable and reliable—perfect for low flick shots that finish hard. I especially enjoy the Minotaur in MaxLife plastic.
Tomahawk Throw
This is one of those “break glass in case of emergency” throws. It’s also a cheat throw in some instances where there are lots of low obstacles, but open space up high.
Grip the disc like a forehand, but instead of throwing sidearm, bring your arm up over your head and launch it vertically. The disc flips upside down in flight, then crashes down nose-first, usually with a sharp right-to-left curve.
Tomahawks are best for clearing trees or landing a disc in tight backdoor windows behind obstacles. For this kind of throw, I’d recommend something very overstable, like the Wyrm—a utility disc made for doing exactly one thing: dumping out hard and fast. The nice thing about the Wyrm, is that it’s not going to skip and will go virtually straight up and down.
Thumber Throw
Like the tomahawk, but instead of using your fingers inside the rim, your thumb goes inside the rim and fingers grip the outside.
This changes the flight pattern—the disc will flip the opposite direction midair. Thumbers work well when you need pinpoint accuracy over tall trees. Some players get surprisingly accurate with them, especially in wooded courses.
Roller Throw
The roller is a controlled ground throw. Instead of flying through the air, the disc flips up, hits the ground, and rolls toward your target. It’s perfect for tunnel shots or navigating low ceilings under tree cover.
Throw a roller by tilting the disc vertically (similar grip to a tomahawk), and release with a steep anhyzer angle. Let the disc hit the ground and do the rest.
The Leviathan is a great roller disc because of its understable flight. It flips easily and rolls reliably straight or right, depending on the release angle.
Unusual Throws That Actually Work (Occasionally)
Let’s be honest—sometimes the “weird” throws are the only way out.
Chicken Wing
A reach-around throw for when you’re jammed up behind a tree. It finishes like a forehand but uses a reverse grip and motion.
Grenade
Hold the disc upside down and throw it vertically with a hyzer angle. It’s great for short, vertical drops.
Scoober
Think: upside-down forehand. Often used for tricky approach shots or short get-out-of-jail tosses.
Skip Shot
Use a low angle and let the disc bounce off the ground. Works best with overstable discs like the Minotaur.
Spike Hyzer
Throw high with a steep hyzer angle and let the disc crash down vertically. Very effective for tight landings, especially with beefy discs like the Wyrm.
Tips to Improve All Your Disc Golf Throws
Want to get better at throwing discs—however you throw them? Here’s what’s worked for me and the many players I’ve helped over the years:
- Field Work: Grab a stack of discs and throw in an open field. Focus on release angles, not just distance.
- Practice Different Shots: Pick one shot type (e.g., forehand) and throw only that for a week.
- Use the Right Discs: If you’re practicing rollers, grab a disc like the Leviathan. For hard fades, go with the Wyrm or Minotaur.
- Watch Better Players: Play rounds with more experienced disc golfers, ask questions, and learn by watching.
- Have Fun With It: Experiment. Fail. Laugh. Try the crazy shots. That’s how you learn.
Conclusion
Learning different ways to throw disc golf discs will make you a more versatile and confident player. From backhand and forehand to rollers, tomahawks, and even chicken wings—you’ll find that each technique gives you new options and new fun.
Divergent Discs is built for players like you and me—everyday disc golfers who want reliable, affordable discs that do what they’re supposed to. So next time you’re on the course, try out a new throw, grab the right disc, and see what happens.
You might just surprise yourself.
