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Best Thumber and Tomahawk Discs

Sometimes, there are just no good lines or open space for traditional forehand or backhand disc golf throws. The only open area is above you.

This is where the importance of having an overhand throw comes in.

There are two main types of overhand throws: the Thumber and the Tomahawk.

The throwing motion is very similar for thumbers and tomahawks with the main difference being the way you grip the disc. With a thumber, your thumb grips tightly on the inside rim. With a tomahawk (often referred to as a hammer), the index and middle finger grip tightly around the inside rim.

What are the best discs for tomahawk and thumber throws?

Just like with backhand and forehand throws, the speed and stability will greatly effect the flight path of the disc. The disc you will want to use will vary based on the situation in front of you. In general, you will want a very overstable disc golf disc for overhand throws.

Overstable discs will follow a much more consistent flight path compared with other discs. With a tomahawk throw, an overstable disc will curve to the right and then back to the left, landing in roughly the same place that you aim. A thumber throw will utilize the exact opposite flight path with the same result.

In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about the discs for a tomahawk and thumber throws including an in-depth roundup, reviews, and buying guide.

Overhand Discs Comparison Table

PRODUCT NAME FLIGHT RATINGS BEST FOR LEVEL OF PLAYER
Infinite Discs Scepter SPEED: 9
GLIDE: 3
TURN: 0
FADE: 4
Medium to long range drives Intermediate and Advanced
DGA Hellfire  SPEED: 10
GLIDE: 1
TURN: 0
FADE: 5
Getting out of trouble and skip shots Advanced
Discraft Flick  SPEED: 12
GLIDE: 3
TURN: 1
FADE: 5
Maximum distance and powerful throws Intermediate and Advanced
Discraft Nuke OS  SPEED: 13
GLIDE: 4
TURN: 0
FADE: 4
Steady flight during windy conditions and acquiring maximum distance Advanced
Dynamic Discs Lucid Enforcer  SPEED: 12
GLIDE: 4
TURN: 0.5
FADE: 4
Steady flight during windy conditions and targeting maximum distance Advanced
Innova Firebird Golf Disc SPEED: 9
GLIDE: 3
TURN: 0
FADE: 4
Battling heavy headwinds and going over obstacles Intermediate and Advanced
Aerobie Epic SPEED: 13
GLIDE: 5
TURN: -4
FADE: 2
Maximum distance on overhand throw Intermediate and Advanced

Best Tomahawk Disc Reviews

1. Infinite Discs Scepter

Infinite Discs Scepter - Best Discs for Thumber Throws

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The Infinite Discs Scepter is an ultra consistent disc for all types of overhand throws. The Scepter utilizes the Innova Firebird mold, but goes through a flat topping process making it more sleek and consistent than the Firebird.

The Scepter has a relatively thin rim and so works very well for thumber shots, especially for people with smaller hands. Some disc golfers find it difficult to throw thumbers using drivers with ultra thick rims.

This disc is ultra consistent for overhand throws and is also an excellent choice for the forehand. Advanced players and professional disc golfers like Drew Gibson also enjoy using the Scepter for controlled power and ultra windy conditions.

PROS

  • Ideal for medium to long range overhand throws
  • It is a versatile disc that works on different kinds of throws
  • A very overstable fairway driver
  • It performs with a consistent flight
  • It lends a nice grip and feels when you hold it
  • Moderate rim thickness that is excellent for thumbers
  • Ideal for intermediate and professional golfers
  • PDGA approved

CONS

  • Not recommended for beginners
  • Hard to find with current disc shortage

2. DGA Hellfire Fairway Distance Driver

DGA Hellfire Fairway Distance Driver

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When escaping trouble and getting over obstacles seem difficult, you can rely on this DGA Hellfire fairway driver to save your game. I’d say it is a killer disc for tomahawk throws, especially if you are finding your way out of the hazards.

It has an unbelievable speed combined with a little glide that you can take advantage of for skip shots and head your way to the basket.
I have always struggled with windy conditions. But even the strongest headwinds won’t stand a chance with this one. This disc definitely lives up to its moniker and drives like hellfire and gets through the wind without a hitch!

It can also remain in the air for a short time and wraps up the flight with a dependable fade. It won’t easily turn over as well.

If you are aiming for some distance, this monster disc does a good job. Although it claims to reach a great distance up to 350 feet, I haven’t gone that far yet but it still achieves a decent distance as a fairway driver would.

Another thing I like about this disc is its versatility. Just like the Latitude 64 Gold Line Burst, it keeps up with different throws and you can give it a go with forehand and backhand shots. Use it with a sidearm or forehand, you can expect precision with your flex shots.

In terms of its design, it maintains a low-profile look with its basic colors and minimal prints. I like how it is crafted with a flat top that renders a comfortable feel as you grip it. The plastic is durable and derived from premium quality material. Moreover, this lends a really nice grip.

PROS

  • Great for skip shots and getting out of trouble
  • Ideal for strong wind conditions
  • It is very fast and won’t turn over easily
  • Can reach a decent distance and finish with a dependable fade
  • It is a versatile driver and can be used with different kinds of throws
  • PDGA Approved

CONS

  • Typically remains airborne for a short time

3. Discraft Flick

Discraft Flick Elite Z

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The Discraft Flick stands out with its unique design. It is thin and the top is completely flat. The rim, however, is relatively thicker. These features may be aesthetically pleasing but they can also define how the disc drives in the air.

When it comes to its plastic type, the brand reinforces the quality with their popular and preeminent blend, the Z-Line. Such material lends superior durability that won’t wear out easily over time. Not to mention the translucent plastic in vibrant hues that are truly eye candy!

This outstanding distance driver is all about extreme overstability and high speed. When thrown with overhand shots, the huge fade takes over the flight. I like how it won’t easily turn over and will just fade back toward the end.

When strong winds get in the way, this golf disc also beats the hell out of it and would take smooth long range drives.

It does the magic but it greatly relies on elite arm power. Otherwise, it won’t take its flight path the way it is designed to do. You have to throw it hard, especially when you go for forehand shots or sharp hyzer shots.

With such a requirement, first-time players might find this a tough nut. You may need to practice several times with your throws until you develop your skills and techniques. It is recommended for intermediate and advanced golfers.

PROS

  • Offers a maximum distance driver with intense overstability
  • Made from Z-Line plastic blend for superior durability
  • Won’t easily turn over with your powerful throws
  • Highly dependable during windy conditions
  • PDGA Approved

CONS

  • It is not a beginner-friendly disc

4. Discraft Nuke OS

DiscDiscraft Z FLX Line Nuke OS

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Discraft takes its Nuke OS golf disc up a notch with its robust Z FLX plastic blend. It has a thick rim that gives off a comfortable grip as you hold it. But what I really like about this plastic blend is the exceptional durability from the brand’s other popular plastic, Elite-Z.

It has the stiffness that contributes to the disc’s steady flight. It also maintains its condition beyond par with its high resistance to wear. With the disc of such sturdy caliber, you can tell it is more than just the sleek appearance and impressive flight characteristics.

This distance driver does deliver, especially when you’re aiming for maximum distance. If you give it a shot out in the field, you can get somewhere between 400 and 450 feet. I’ve tried it around 300 to 350 feet and it’s just effortless every time.

It resembles one of their flagship distance drivers, which is the Discraft Nuke but with just a little tweak in its stability. It is extremely overstable with a huge fade.

Therefore, it flies fairly straight and obtains great distance before it bears left as it finishes. But take note that this disc is not for the weaker arm.

This driver is super fast and handles high and strong winds with straightforward aptitude. However, it demands full arm power to let it perform according to its intended flight details, making it suitable for advanced and expert golfers.

PROS

  • Reliable for remarkable distance potential
  • Made from very sturdy Plastic
  • It can handle strong winds with insane speed
  • Targets professional and advanced golfers
  • PDGA Approved

CONS

  • Won’t fly as intended if you have weak arm power
  • Ultra thick rim is uncomfortable for some

5. Dynamic Discs Enforcer

Dynamic Discs Lucid Enforcer Distance Driver

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Whenever I catch myself stuck in heavy winds and trying to work my way through it, the Dynamic Discs Enforcer is one of the go-to distance drivers that I depend on. It features a high speed rating that lets the disc fly into the wind with no trouble.

As it is an overstable disc with an immense fade, it starts on a straight flight and shifts into a predictable S-shaped flight. It can also turn over but not too much. But I’m impressed with how it flies high in the wind and wraps up the flight to where it should be.

If you’re looking for more distance and a real treat in your overhand throws, you may want to try the Enforcer in Lucid Air plastic. This makes the discs light weight but still very overstable. It is crafted with microbubbles that are evenly distributed on top of the disc and right in the middle of the rim.

Such material also makes it exceptionally lightweight. Not to mention the thick rim and plastic quality that feels great in the hand as well.

Apart from its remarkable performance on a windy day, it’s also a reliable driver for skip shots and spike hyzers. And while you can use it for overhead throws, it is versatile and does the trick even when thrown with forehand and backhand.

Besides that, it is amazing to see how it can obtain great distance although it is an overstable disc. But do know that this requires lots of arm power. Otherwise, you might struggle with your throws.

PROS

  • It flies high and fights strong headwinds
  • Has lightweight material that offers a comfortable grip
  • Delivers excellent performance for skip shots and spike hyzers
  • Does not turn over
  • PDGA Approved

CONS

  • Demands a lot of arm power

6. Innova Champion Firebird

Innova Champion Material Firebird

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The Innova Champion Firebird is very similar to the Scepter. They are both very overstable drivers but Firebird is what I would prefer to use when I need to pick up more distance and get through the course while battling heavy headwinds. The Firebird has more dome than does the Scepter which gives it more glide.

This distance driver is reliable in the wind using a tomahawk throw. If you throw it with a forehand or backhand shot, it can also keep up with its fading hyzer flight. I like how you can play with it with multiple throws but still get a reliable fade every time.

As it is made of Champion plastic, it renders an impressive endurance against harsh conditions and can get over different kinds of obstacles like between trees or across fields. That’s why it also performs well for low skip shots, hyzer shots, and flex shots for long ranges.

With its outstanding performance with multiple shots and throws, I consider it an all-around driver that intermediate and advanced players can fall in love with. But if you’re still developing your skills and trying your luck with tomahawk throws, you might have to skip this for now.

It feels very nice in the hand. The rim is narrow compared to Latitude, which lends a nice fit. Besides the durability of this plastic, it feels relatively grippy than other Innova plastics I’ve tried. Overall, it’s an excellent disc to try!

PROS

  • Delivers great performance with strong headwinds
  • A very overstable distance driver
  • Great to use when getting over obstacles
  • It is a versatile driver that can be used with different throws
  • Lends a very nice feel in the hand
  • Durable plastic with a grippy feel
  • PDGA Approved

CONS

  • It might be difficult to use for tomahawk throws if you’re a beginner
  • Not as consistent as the Scepter

7. Aerobie Epic

A red Aerobie Epic golf disc with white text detailing the brand and disc type on a white background.

When it comes to maximum distance on overhand throws, nothing performs like the Aerobie Epic. This disc has without doubt the most unusual rim shape and configuration. The inside rim is oblong with one side being substantially thicker than the other.

The oblong shape of the Epic gives it the most crazy tailwind spinning kamikaze flight you can imagine. It can’t really be described. To understand the epic flight on tomahawk and tumber throws you have to see it to get it. This video will help you see the beauty of an overhand Epic throw in action.

While the PDGA standards would not currently approve the Epic mold, this discs was made at a time when the standards were different and so has been grandfathered in.

The biggest disadvantage of the Epic is that it is no longer produced and so not available at disc golf stores. If you find one, you will have to pay a pretty price at an auction. Despite it’s lack of availability, we couldn’t not include the Epic as one of the best discs for overhand throws because nothing else even compares in distance.

PROS

  • Has exceptional speed that can achieve maximum distance
  • Unique rim width gives it a flight path different than everything else
  • PDGA Approved

CONS

  • No longer produced and so very difficult to find
  • Very finnicky and needs to be tuned by bending

How to Choose the Best Tomahawk Disc

best tomahawk disc golf

Choosing the perfect tomahawk disc is considered to be crucial. You may come across a vast array of popular golf disc brands with different types of plastics and designs. But finding the ultimate pick depends on what you’re planning to do with the tomahawk. It also comes down to several significant factors you should take note of: type of disc, your skills and experience or level, and your preferences.

Determine the Distance and Type of Disc

When looking for the best disc for tomahawk throws, determining the type of disc is imperative. You can choose between understable and overstable golf discs.

To give you a quick overview, understable discs are usually going to corkscrew or move in a spiral motion earlier in flight. Therefore, if you need such a flight pattern, an understable disc starts on an axis and quickly turns to navigate a strange path.

When the TURN rating of a disc is labeled with a negative number (-4 or -5), it becomes understable. This type of disc also tends to turn much faster and drop on your target. This results in much more accurate but less distance.

Overstable discs, on the other hand, are quite the opposite. This type of disc tends to pancake (or finish sliding on its top) and turn much slower after it is released. You can get the most distance while fighting its way out of heavy headwinds.

You just have to remember that overstable discs need to be thrown higher. With such power, they will turn slower and obtain more distance but with less accuracy.

If you’re using a very overstable disc, you’ll have the ability to manipulate the angle of your tomahawk release (straight up vs 45* angle, for example) and expect predictability. This is also the reason why I prefer an overstable disc for tomahawk or overhand shots.

A golf disc indicates this with a TURN rating that has a positive value (1, 0).

Consider Your Skill and Experience

Your skill and experience in disc golf make a huge difference when picking out the best disc for tomahawk throws. However, it can be a bit challenging as I notice that many tomahawk discs are overstable that usually require lots of arm power.

There might also be discs that perform according to their intended flight when thrown with proper technique and required power. That’s why many overstable discs are suitable for intermediate and advanced or professional golfers.

In this case, you may need to hone your skills and techniques to benefit from the flight characteristics of your tomahawk disc. It may take some time and several practice sessions until you get a hang of it. If you are still new to this type of throw or the disc golf itself, you may also consider looking for beginner-friendly discs.

Know Your Preferences

Your personal preferences play a vital role when shopping for discs. Apart from identifying the type of disc and your disc golfing potential and capabilities, you probably have your own checklist for the features you want for a disc.

When I go over a large lineup of discs, I also take note of the plastic blend, rim, weight, width, and some aesthetic features such as colors. Not only can they define the disc’s resilience and quality but also help you evaluate what the flight pattern or performance will be.

Getting through the details and specifications of a disc will give you an idea of which type of throw or grip works best with it. If you’re on a tight budget or trying to figure out the cost, these aspects may also be significant factors that affect the price.

Tomahawk Flight Manipulation

If you’re going for a tomahawk throw, the type of disc and arm slot are significant factors that can manipulate the flight of your disc.
Every time I go out for a tournament, I always bring different types of discs that I can use for different kinds of shots. I don’t stick with overstable discs only. I also bring stable and understandable discs to make sure I get the distance and flight pattern on point.

Arm Slot / Release Angle

If you are going to modify your release angle and adapt to another approach, it is important to determine your preferred flight pattern. Take note that the release angle depends on your intended flight. The closer to vertical the disc is, the longer it will take to turn and pan out.

When a golf disc is very overstable, it usually exhibits a different flight pattern. The disc tends to move more straight and goes in an upward and downward direction as it hits the ground. When a disc is understandable but thrown with the same arm power, it usually flips over and hits the ground flat.

You also have to remember that throwing a tomahawk at different angles of release can have widely varying results depending on other factors like distance and wind. When the winds are strong or you’re aiming for a certain distance, the results may not be the same every time you go for a throw.

Grip

Another way to maneuver the flight is how you grip the disc. But do know that different people have different grips. There are players who stick with their preferred grip but some switch between different grips to work on their target and achieve the flight pattern they want.

A usual thumber will often take on a full flight and turn over. It usually moves from left to right. A usual tomahawk, on the other hand, does the opposite and will move from right to left based on the player’s perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

best disc for tomahawk throw

How to Clean and Care for Tomahawk Discs?

Because of the obstacles and different terrains and courses, your disc will probably be covered in dirt and mud every after a tournament. But do know that your discs are harder to throw when they are dirty. Therefore, if you keep them clean at all times, your discs will fly and perform much better.

Here are some cleaning and maintenance tips to remember:

  • Step 1: Use dish soap and warm water to clean your discs. You may use a scrubbing pad or sponge to get rid of the dirt and mud.
  • Step 2: For deep cleaning, you may fill your bucket or sink with warm water and dunk the disc in it. Gently clean the disc with a scrubbing pad or sponge to remove any stubborn dirt and mud.
  • Step 3: Another way is to hose down the disc using a nozzle with a high pressure to get through the tough dirt, mud, and stains. Some do this for quick cleaning. But if you want to keep the disc spic and span, you may scrub off any residues afterward.
  • Step 4: Do not use scalding hot water when cleaning your discs. Doing so may deform or warp your disc.
  • Step 5: Gently wipe your discs with a clean and soft cloth to dry them. Do not put them under direct sunlight after cleaning just to dry them as this can also warp your disc.
  • Step 6: Do not put your discs in a dishwasher. This may seem fast and hassle-free but it is not a safe option. Any dirt or residues from your discs can potentially clog your dishwasher and damage it eventually.
  • Step 7: You should clean your golf discs regularly. I always wipe my golf discs with a clean cloth every after a game to prevent any dirt from piling up. This also preps the disc for the next game.
    But to keep it in its best shape, you should set a time when to conduct deep cleaning. I’d say once a month if you often engage in tournaments or games. If you don’t play too often and only just for fun, every six months will do.
  • Step 8: Store your discs properly. You can use a disc golf cart or a bag to put them away. You’ll also be able to organize your golf discs and protect them from possible damages.

Where to buy These Tomahawk Discs?

You may try visiting any sports stores and outlets in your local neighborhood to check if there are any available golf discs.

If you are looking for the type of disc you can use for overhead or tomahawk throws, these stores provide assistance to help you choose the ideal disc based on your preferences, techniques, and skills.

Many popular brands have also opted for another accessible platform to make disc golf disc shopping more convenient. Through e-commerce websites, you can go through a wide selection of golf discs and make purchases with just one click away.

They also provide detailed guidelines for the flight ratings, grip, stability, plastic grade, and more. You can also compare the discs from one brand to another and determine which design best suits your needs and preferences.

What is the Warranty for These Discs?

Unfortunately, a warranty is not typically available for disc golf discs although this may vary from brand to brand. But a lot of popular and trustworthy brands ensure exceptional durability with their innovative technologies and premium quality materials.

Therefore, it would help a lot to learn more about the specifications of the disc such as the type of plastic, the rim width, weight, and more.

I also appreciate those brands that can accommodate customers with their reliable and fast service. This may be another significant factor to consider as it can make up for the warranty coverage.

Conclusion

To sum it all up, finding the best tomahawk disc may take a few research and comparison of brands and types of discs. As mentioned, golf discs for this kind of throw are typically overstable. But your ultimate disc greatly depends on your skills, techniques, and preferences.

Fortunately, you’ll be able to narrow down your options as long as you consider the important factors mentioned above. And if you’re still having trouble with your options, the in-depth guide and unbiased reviews will walk you through the exceptional tomahawk discs from popular and trustworthy brands.

5/5 - (3 votes)

This Post Has One Comment

  1. Jeffrey Michalak

    I prefer thumbers from the tee when the conditions allow for it. Pretty much any non-wooded hole with an open tee area

    Flick is great for distance. I can get about 325 on a near perfect thumber (about 275 for Tomahawk)

    I use an Innova Beast for an accurate Thumber. Doesnt go as far as the flick but easier to manipulate the line with a release angle – and more consistent accuracy with the Beast. Got 1 of my 2 aces with a thumber on a Beast

    Got a Epic as well.. more for fun or the WIDE open field drives.. goes about 375 on a near perfect thumber but tends to spray

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