Blog

Some players tend to overlook mid-range discs. They most likely proceed with using putters or drivers immediately which is a wrong perception. Whatever one’s level of expertise is when it comes to disc golf it is important to get the best midrange disc.

Capturing the perfect combination of accuracy and speed is what highlights the use of midrange discs. A midrange can fly substantially straighter than a driver and can provide you with more distance than a putter. For tightly wooded courses, the flight path that only a midrange can offer can provide you with additional birdies otherwise not thought possible.

If you think you don’t need a midrange disc, you will find the reasons why you need one here. There are also recommendations of the best midrange discs for beginners and advanced players which can be used in the disc golf course.

The recent explosion of disc golf has resulted in supply shortages which manufacturers are experiencing. We are continuously updating this review and will only include products that are likely to be available.

Best Mid Range Disc Golf Reviews

Mid-range Comparison Table

1. Discraft Buzzz Elite Z Golf Disc

Check Price on Amazon Shop at Infinite Discs

If you are looking for the best mid-range discs period, then the Discraft Buzzz is one that you should consider. This is a disc that is regularly used by professional disc golfers and is also a solid choice for the intermediate player as well. The Buzz can even be useful for beginners.

I recommend this disc for all skill levels because of its versatility and intricacy of design. The Buzzz has consistently been one of the top-selling midrange discs from major disc golf retailers for the past twenty years! It’s not just me, others also love the accuracy of the Buzzz. Whatever the weather condition is, this disc will still fly accurately towards the goal.

This mid-range disc has an incredible flat top and a small rim. The size is just enough to fit perfectly in your hands. It is a disc that works incredibly well for both forehand and backhand throws. Thanks to the accuracy of the Buzzz, you can still lock in par even if you do not have a good drive.

When thrown with sufficient power, the Buzzz maintains any line it is released on. As it wears in, the Buzzz excels in turnover shots and is also effective for sweeping right-to-left hyzer throws, where its glide contributes to its range.

The Discraft Buzzz possesses slightly more stability than typically recommended for new players. However, I would still endorse it for players of any skill level. This is because any shot executed with this disc tends to be impressive. Simply concentrate on your aim, perfect your release angle, and then launch it!

2. Infinite Discs Anubis

Check Price on Amazon Shop at Infinite Discs

The Infinite Discs Anubis is among the straightest flying disc golf discs in all of disc golf. This is a super-smooth flyer with a very little end-of-flight fade.

As a wide diameter midrange with a relatively flat dome and a moderately deep rim, the Anubis provides exceptional performance. This is a beadless midrange and feels great in the hand.

If you are a beginner looking for a great first disc that will fly straight and glide far, the Anubis is a good one. Advanced and professional players will love the control the Anubs provide for long anhyzer lines and turnover shots. The wide diameter of this disc helps it to resist flipping over, even when thrown with a lot of power.

The Infinite Discs Anubis may not have the same popularity as midranges in the Innova and Discraft lines, but it stands out due to its affordability. The Infinite Discs I-Blend plastic is priced several dollars lower than similar plastics from other well-known brands, without compromising on quality. The I-Blend plastic not only looks and feels great, but all Infinite Discs also feature exceptionally attractive stamps.

If you’re in the market for an exceptionally reliable all-purpose midrange disc that comes at an excellent price, the Infinite Discs Anubis is worth considering.

3. Divergent Discs Leviathan

Check Price on Amazon Shop at Infinite Discs

The Divergent Discs Leviathan just might be the best disc golf midrange ever made for beginners. Because this disc is so understable, brand new players often find that they can throw the Leviathan farther than they can a driver.

This is a thin, low-profile, mid with a moderately wide diameter. The Leviathan is super easy to throw. It will stay straight even for the newest players with the slowest arm speed. Advanced disc golfers and those who struggle with forehand throws will love using the Leviathan for high arching turnover shots where you don’t want the disc to fade out at the end of the flight. Power throws will likely find that the Leviathan is too flippy for them when playing in headwinds.

The Leviathan is available in an ultra-grippy Maxgrip plastic that looks great and feels even better. This is a moderately durable plastic blend that will give you confidence in all weather conditions. The softness of this plastic does take a beating when you are hitting lots of trees or sharp rocks. I play primarily in very difficult disc golf courses, you may want to consider a disc available in a more durable plastic variety.

4. Innova Disc Golf Champion Mako 3 Golf Disc

Check Price on Amazon Shop at Infinite Discs

The Innova Mako3 is a wide-diameter midrange disc, renowned for its ultra-straight flight path, closely resembling the Infinite Discs Anubis in both flight characteristics and tactile experience.

With its straightforward grip and flight, the Mako3 is a top pick for both rookies looking to step up their game and pros aiming to fine-tune their precision throws. Despite its demand for precise technical shots, this disc reliably responds to the player’s intentions.

Ideal for those seeking a straight-flying disc with minimal fade, the Mako3’s exceptional glide provides added distance, even at low speeds. Versatile in its capabilities, it excels in performing dead straight shots, smooth hyzers, and turnover shots, adapting effortlessly to the demands of each shot.

The Mako3’s real draw is how effortlessly you can control it, perfect for those tricky shots where precision is key. It’s the disc of choice on courses demanding technical precision, reacting intuitively to the player’s input. A flat throw results in a straightforward path, culminating in a consistent landing.

The Mako3’s design, with its comfortably rounded edges, offers a firm hold and a fluid motion upon release, echoing the familiar feel of tossing a traditional Frisbee. With the Mako3, you get that sweet spot of accuracy and reliability in your throws, which amps up the enjoyment for players who dig a disc they can count on. If these qualities align with what you seek in a disc, the Mako3 is an excellent choice.

5. Dynamic Discs EMAC Truth Midrange Golf Disc

Check Price on Amazon Shop at Infinite Discs

The EMAC Truth, designed by champ Eric McCabe, is a top-notch midrange disc loved for its precise and reliable flight path. Co-designed by 2010 World Champion Eric McCabe, this disc builds upon the beloved DD Truth by incorporating a touch of extra stability, catering to players with a more powerful throw.

The EMAC Truth, while maintaining a wide diameter typical of midrange discs, distinguishes itself with a notably shallower profile compared to its counterparts. With a rim depth of just 1.2mm, marginally above the PDGA’s minimum requirement, it offers a distinct feel. Unlike the squarer edge of the Discraft Buzzz, the EMAC Truth boasts a more rounded contour, enhancing comfort during play.

The EMAC Truth nails that sweet spot in disc golf, letting you steer it just right and then watching as it gracefully curves to your goal. Its consistent performance is sure to meet the expectations of even the most discerning players.

For advanced players seeking a stable to overstable flight trajectory and a preference for a shallower grip, the Dynamic Discs EMAC Truth is an exemplary choice, promising both satisfaction and performance on the course.

 

6. Innova Roc3

Check Price on Amazon Shop at Infinite Discs

The Innova Roc3, was designed for pro disc golfer Paul McBeth when he was sponsored by Innova. This really shines as a top-tier midrange disc. The Roc3 is notably more overstable compared to other midranges we’ve evaluated, enabling it to accommodate greater power. Innova characterizes the Roc3 with flight ratings that include a speed of 5, glide of 4, 0 turn, and a pronounced fade of 3.

The Roc3’s beaded design and steadfastness mean it stays on course, even when the wind tries to knock it off balance. You still get that smooth control you’re after. The Roc3’s steady fade makes it a trustworthy pick for just about any play, especially when you’re making your way down those wide-open fairways where a fade can really come in handy. While the Roc3 features a bead and a deeper profile, in contrast to a disc like the Buzzz, its stability is well-suited for forehand throws. However, some players, including myself, might prefer the Buzzz for its shallower rim.

The Roc3 is highly recommended for advanced and tournament disc golfers.

7. Prodigy M-Model US

Check Price on Amazon Shop at Infinite Discs

Prodigy Disc has always made some of the best mid range discs on the market. Their new Ace Line models just might be the best of them all.

The M-Model US is an understable mid-range disc which is getting a lot of hype due to its straight, flip, and turnover flights. I love its flat profile which results in a consistent release with moderate power.

What sets it apart from the rest of the best mid-range discs is its price. All Prodigy ACE Line discs are available in two different plastic blends. Both Base Grip and Dura Grip are extremely affordable, but they have not based plastics that wear easily. The reason that the Prodigy Ace Line is so cheap is that these discs are manufactured overseas in China.

In the Prodigy Line, discs are described in the name. M Model signifies that this disc is a midrange. US identifies this disc as understable. And while this disc is understable for professional players, like those that own Prodigy, new players will find an overall stable flight path that is fantastic for a workhorse mid for beginners and intermediate disc golfers.

If you want a solid mid that can perform all kinds of shot types at the lowest price, then try out a Prodigy M-Model US today.

What is a Mid-Range Disc Golf Disc?

To really get the hang of mid-range golf discs, you’ve got to grasp their unique niche—they’re not just for short shots but they also dial down on speed for killer accuracy. The flight of a midrange is substantially different from a distance driver.

A mid-range disc is one of the four principal categories of golf discs, alongside distance drivers, putters, and fairway drivers. Characterized by its rounded edges, a mid-range disc is designed to be less aerodynamic, allowing it to fly further than a putter but not as far or as fast as distance and fairway drivers. However, this slower speed is not a drawback. The disc’s slower speed actually sharpens its accuracy on throws.

Mid-range discs excel in accuracy, reliably generally covering distances between 250 to 350 feet without the aggressive skipping often seen with drivers. Their design zeroes in on pinpoint control and precision, striving to make the disc hug close to the target rather than flying past it. Mid-range discs shine when you need a straight shot, controlled finish, or that just-right distance on the fairway.

Mid-range discs stand out for their flexible nature, bridging the gap with finesse where putters fall short and drivers might just be too much. They can be thrown with normal power, offering more distance than a putter but less than a driver. With a focus on refining a fluid throwing technique, players can gradually up their game without feeling overwhelmed. Their versatility also allows players to explore and hone various throwing techniques, which is crucial for those aiming to polish their skills and add diversity to their game.

How to Choose the Best Mid-Range Discs?

Here are some things to consider when choosing the best mid-range discs

Type of Mid-Range Disc

New players need to understand that mid-range discs come in different various types. You have to look for a disc which provides you the flight type you are looking for. Primarily, there are three main types of mid-range discs.

• Stable mid-range discs: These discs are straight, accurate, and more controllable. They will be able to hold a straight line without doing many turns. They even have a reliable fade to the left as it would slow down.
• Overstable mid-range discs: For a right handed player, an overstable mid will feature an arcing path to the left. These discs have a pretty good fade at the end of all your shots and do not turn over.
• Understable mid-range discs: At high speed, these discs tend to turn over. They bend to the right before turning to the left when it already slows down. When you have enough power, an understable midrange like the Leviathan won’t fade back at the end of the flight at all.

As a player, you have to base the type of disc-based on your preference and your situation. So, choose the disc which suits your own playing style, disc golf course, and your methods of play.

Moreover, you have to choose the type which you feel would work best for you. Eventually, you will want different midrange discs of all stabilities for different shots you will face on the course.

I recommend that beginners should choose an understable or a neutral flying mid with low speed, predictable fade, and with a decent glide. So that you’d use less power to throw, I would recommend you choose a disc made from premium/ good plastic. Moreover. Make sure that you understand the flying patterns of these discs because they also play a huge factor in the gameplay. If you do so, you will need less power to throw the disc.

Weight of Mid-Range Disc

When you’re picking out a disc, the weight matters big time—it shapes how it flies, especially when the weather throws curveballs. The appropriate weight largely depends on the player’s arm strength and the playing environment.

In windy conditions, heavier discs, typically weighing over 170g, are generally more stable and reliable. While they may be more challenging to throw compared to their lighter counterparts, getting accustomed to heavier discs can significantly enhance your performance in breezy settings.

On the flip side, opting for lighter drivers can be a smart move if you’re aiming to send your disc flying further down the fairway. Yet, if you find that your mid-range disc isn’t covering the desired distance at its maximum weight, you might consider switching to a fairway driver for that extra reach.

Personally, I prefer using mid-range discs that are at or near their maximum weight. On breezy days, I’ve noticed a weightier disc ups my game; it steadies my hand and sharpens both the reach and aim of my throws.

But bear in mind, those heavier discs usually pack more overstability—this means they might give you a bit of a workout when it comes to mastering their throw. So, when you switch to a heftier disc, be ready to tweak your throw—it might take some practice.

Plastic Type and Durability

As beginners, you might initially focus on the price of a disc, yet it’s equally important to consider the durability of the plastic material. Disc golf discs are crafted from various plastic blends, and the resilience of these materials ensures that the disc’s characteristics remain consistent over time. Durability also means that your disc will endure, maintaining its integrity rather than deteriorating after just a few sessions.

It’s worth noting, though, that while softer and more grippy plastics may seem appealing initially due to their tactile feel, they may not maintain their structure in the long run. These materials can become less reliable and overly flexible as they wear in with extensive use. If you’re aiming for a flight path that remains stable and predictable, opting for a disc made from the most durable plastic is usually the best choice.

Midrange Plastic Types

The plastic type of your disc significantly influences its flight characteristics, impacting the grip and release. When selecting the best mid-range disc for a sidearm throw, consider these common types of plastics:

1. Premium Plastics : Known for their outstanding durability and grip, premium plastics are a higher-cost option. Sure, it costs a bit more upfront, but you’re getting top-notch quality and reliability that won’t let you down.
2. Ultra-Light Plastics : Ideal for new players, ultra-light discs are easier to throw farther due to their reduced weight. Their reduced mass lets them glide further with ease.
3. Ultra Durable Plastics : Characterized by their smooth, hard, and transparent appearance, these plastics are incredibly resilient. They are particularly suitable for playing in rough terrains where the disc may encounter abrasive surfaces.
4. Middle-Grade Plastics : These plastics strike a balance between durability and quality, surpassing basic plastics. But, despite their toughness, these plastics aren’t indestructible—they can still crack or break if they take a serious hit from something like a speeding bike crashing into a tree.
5. Basic Plastics : While these lower-grade plastics offer a good grip, they are prone to quicker wear and tear. The more you use these discs, the quicker they’ll pick up scratches and lose their stability, messing with how they fly.

Speed and Glide

Midrange discs typically have a Speed Rating of 4 or 5, though sometimes it’s 3 or 6. The speed rating we’re talking about is how well the disc can cut through air and what kind of throw you need to really get it going like the makers intended. In practice, it’s the rim’s width, ranging from 1.1 to 1.4 mm, that classifies a disc as midrange.

Glide is all about how long a disc can hang in the air after you’ve sent it flying, with its rating scale running from one right up to seven. Discs with higher glide ratings maintain their loft longer than those with lower ratings, and typically, more overstable discs have lower glide numbers.

Discs with lower glide numbers generally need more power to cover distances. But for long-haul throws, glide is key to covering those extra yards. For precision shots, midrange glide is less critical as the primary objective isn’t distance. Yet, in densely wooded courses, a straight-flying, high-glide disc can effortlessly cover fairway distances. Personally, I find it easier to maintain control and avoid trees not by throwing with full power, but by executing a smooth, consistent release. In such situations, high-glide understable midrange discs excel.

Disc Stability

When scouting for a new disc, pay close attention to its stability rating—it’s the key indicator of how it’ll behave in flight. A high fade rating, such as 3.0 or above, signifies that the disc is highly overstable. This means it will curve significantly, offering more predictability in its flight pattern rather than distance, tending towards a consistent but not straight path.

For beginners, the optimal choice is typically a neutral or slightly understable midrange disc, like those previously suggested. Once you’ve got the hang of how your starter discs fly, feel free to dive into the diverse world of midranges, where you’ll find everything from super understable to wildly overstable options waiting for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

When to use a mid-range disc?

Mid-range discs, often overlooked, are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of scenarios. For upshots, the best straight mid-range discs excel in providing accuracy and control, making them user-friendly.

They are particularly effective in wooded courses where navigating around trees is crucial. The control offered by the best mid-range discs for beginners allows for precise maneuvering through wooded areas. Additionally, due to their balanced precision and speed, mid-range discs can be a great choice for tee shots.

When using a midrange disc, consider the following:

1. Limit Power: Instead of limiting your normal throwing motion, use a midrange disc instead to cut back on the total distance. A standard power throw with a driver might overshoot the target, but a mid-range disc will provide a more controlled distance.
2. Shape Shots: Mid-range discs are ideal for crafting specific shot shapes, whether it’s maintaining a straight trajectory through the woods or minimizing fade to stay on the fairway. Most mid-range discs exhibit less end-of-flight fade compared to drivers, allowing for straighter flights and ultimately placing you in a better position for your next throw.

What distance should I throw mid-range discs for?

New players often struggle to discern when to opt for a midrange disc over a driver or putter, as this choice largely depends on an individual’s skill and power. Personally, I tend to use midrange discs for distances ranging from approximately 220 to 260 feet, while some professional disc golfers might choose mids for shots under 350 feet.

It’s a common misconception among new players that a midrange disc should automatically be the go-to for the second shot off the tee. However, this isn’t always the case, and in many situations, opting for a putter or driver for the second throw might be more suitable.

Conclusion

Mid-range discs are essential for enhancing your disc golf skills. Despite being underrated, they offer numerous benefits that can significantly improve your gameplay.

When selecting the ideal midrange disc, focus on finding a disc that delivers control, precision, accuracy, and distance – key elements in the sport. Also, keep in mind the crucial factors previously discussed.

Regular practice is fundamental to advancing your game. Pay attention to techniques and the characteristics of your equipment to avoid the disappointment of using a subpar product. Ultimately, the goal is to enjoy a satisfying game.

So, go ahead and embrace your “Go-to” mid-range disc for an improved disc golf experience!