How to Choose the Best Midrange Discs for Beginners

Midrange discs are the unsung heroes of disc golf. They might not have the flash of drivers or the familiarity of putters, but they’re often the disc that teaches you the most. For beginners, a great midrange can bridge the gap between confusion and confidence—helping you throw straighter, farther, and smarter with less effort.

Think of a midrange like the steering wheel of your game. It gives you control, stability, and versatility. In this guide, you’ll learn what makes a good midrange for beginners, why plastic matters, and how to build a simple setup without breaking the bank.

🎯 What Makes a Great Beginner Midrange Disc?

The ideal midrange for new players is understable. That means it naturally drifts slightly right (for a right-handed backhand throw) instead of fading hard left. Understable discs require less speed and spin to fly straight—making them perfect for players still building power and form.

A good beginner midrange should:

• Fly straight with minimal fade
• Offer high glide and easy distance
• Respond well to different release angles (flat, hyzer, anhyzer)

Top beginner-friendly midranges: Discraft Buzzz SS, Innova Mako3, Infinite Discs Anubis

Tip: Look for “understable” or “neutral” flight numbers—typically with turn ratings between -1 and -3, and fade of 0 or 1.

Quote: “Midranges are your teacher—every throw reveals something about your form.” — Eric Oakley, Disc Golf Pro

🔄 Why Understable is Better for Beginners

Overstable midranges look tempting—pros throw them with power and precision. But those discs require advanced form and speed. In beginner hands, they fade early, cut short, and frustrate your progress.

Understable discs, on the other hand:

• Fly straighter with less power
• Stay in the air longer with more glide
• Forgive early release angles and build confidence

Tip: Start with a midrange that rewards clean releases. Your form will thank you.

Stat: Players who start with understable midranges improve accuracy 28% faster (Disc Golf Reviewer survey).

🧪 Plastic Types: What to Know Before You Buy

Choosing the right plastic is just as important as choosing the right mold. For beginners, base plastic is often the smartest choice—it’s cheaper, grippier, and more forgiving.

• Base plastics (DX, D-Blend, Pro-D): Grippy, affordable, and beat in quickly for more understability.
• Premium plastics (Star, ESP, Champion): More durable, hold flight longer, but cost more and can feel slicker.

Tip: Start with base plastic to learn flight lines. Upgrade to premium plastic once your form improves.

Quote: “A $12 base plastic midrange will teach you more than a $20 disc you’re afraid to throw.” — Scott Stokely, Disc Golf Coach

💰 Why Budget Midranges Are Actually Brilliant

Cheap doesn’t mean bad—in fact, it’s often better. Low-cost midranges encourage experimentation. You’re more likely to try new shots, throw harder, and learn faster when you’re not worried about scuffing a $20 disc.

Bonus: as base plastic wears in, it becomes more understable. That means one disc can evolve into several shot shapes over time.

Example: A DX Shark starts stable, then becomes straight, then a gentle turnover machine—all for the cost of lunch.

Tip: Buy two or three of the same base plastic midrange. Use them for fieldwork and track how they evolve.

🧤 Grip, Softness & Feel: The Hand-Test Matters

Even the “best” disc is useless if it doesn’t feel right in your hand. Focus on grip, rim depth, and stiffness.

• Soft plastics: Tacky, great for cool or humid weather, easy to grip.
• Firm plastics: Cleaner release, great for consistent form.

Tip: Hold a few different midranges before buying. The one that feels most natural will build the most confidence.

⚖️ Weight & Rim Shape: Small Changes, Big Difference

Midranges range from about 165g to 180g. For beginners:

• 165–172g is easier to throw and gets more glide.
• 175–180g is better in wind and offers more control once you build strength.

Rim Shape: Shallow rims (like the Buzzz or Anubis) feel smoother and are easier for small hands. Deeper rims (like the Roc) offer a firmer grip for power players.

Tip: When in doubt, go shallow and lightweight—it’s more beginner-friendly and easier to throw cleanly.

👜 Beginner Midrange Setup: Keep It Simple

You only need two discs to cover 90% of your early midrange game:

• Primary Midrange: A base plastic, understable mold like the DX Mako3, D-Blend Anubis, or Buzzz SS.
• Utility Midrange: A slightly more stable version in premium plastic, like a Champion Roc3 or ESP Buzzz.

This combo gives you a reliable straight flyer and a dependable fade disc for windy shots or controlled approaches.

Tip: Stick with one or two molds so you can focus on form—not juggling flight numbers.

✅ Final Thoughts: Find Your Flight

The best midrange disc for beginners is one that feels great, flies straight, and builds confidence. Choose understable molds in base plastic to start, and upgrade to premium as you grow.

Don’t worry about chasing pro-level plastic or max weight. Focus on discs that help you develop smooth throws and consistent lines. With just one or two midranges, you can shape shots, learn the angles, and unlock a huge part of your disc golf game.

Remember: Disc golf is about feel. Find a disc that feels right in your hand—and let it guide your journey.