Disc golf: Flirt with feather-weight (and beefy) nine-speeds

I get the argument for an all-max-weight bag …

The logic behind it isn’t too tough to follow.

For starters, they’re easy to find – and in every mold known to mankind. Because of this, regardless of online retailer, they’re always in stock. Going the max-weight route also gives golfers one less thing to worry about. If everything’s max weight, you eliminate weight entirely from the disc-selection process. And lastly, best of all, max-weight discs are true wind-fighters.

Fortunately, I’m not saying you need to go all-in on a Dino Discs lineup …

Just know there’s REAL value in light-weight plastic.

For those intrigued by the concept, one of the best places to start?

The beefy nine-speed.

All the usual suspects come to mind: the Draco, Splice, Felon, Fireball, Firebird, Raptor, etc. Only, instead of opting for a boring, 175-gram disc, run wild with a 150-class frisbee. And if the mind won’t let your wallet make it happen, something in the 165-gram range will work just fine.

This is NOT my idea, though …

This concept was introduced to me by Anthony Barela circa 2016. At the time, as a member of Team Innova, Barela was known for smashing on an orange, 150-gram, flat-top Champion Firebird. Better yet, this wasn’t some utility disc he’d yank on for kicks and giggles …

It was a workhorse.

Barela’s arm was (and is) big enough for something heavier, but the move made sense:

• It’s easier to hammer on light-weight frisbees.
• They’re far less tough on arms, elbows and shoulders.
• Due to the weight, perfect form isn’t required to make ‘em go.

Also, don’t even THINK about coming at me with this “light-weight discs aren’t overstable enough” business. While I admit paper-plate frisbees are more susceptible to being impacted by wind, the difference is negligible. Beef is more an issue of lip shape and parting-line height than weight. Up until he lost it, Barela’s Firebird had more than enough stank for him …

Your scrawny arm (and mine) would do just fine with it, too.

So why the overstable nine-speed, exactly?

It’s a faster disc. Because of its speed, it’s used for distance. The biggest reason, however, is the tendency for this disc to see LOTS of forehand action – it’s the perfect slot for lighter clubs.

Before you get too pumped, though, know this …

These discs are hard to find.

Popular, nine-speed molds in markedly light weights pop up on retailer sites, but you’ll need to be vigilant. Manufacturer-specific Facebook groups are another great place for odd requests like this. eBay is likely to get you what you need, too. Furthermore, consider starting your search on a manufacturer’s website. For example, 160-gram Quantum Dracos are readily available here.

If you’re open to disc experimentation, THIS is a trial you’ve got to run …

You’ll like what you find.

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