Dear Scott,

A two-part question with follow-ups about disc selection: First, what approach do you take to setting up your bag in regards to disc selection? Would you recommend the same philosophy to an intermediate or advanced player? Do you setup according to the course being played, or do you already have all the different shots "in your bag"? And secondly, what is your philosophy regarding disc weights? I've noticed that some pros only throw max-weight discs, while others have been going lighter with some or all of their discs. I've been told to, "get a disc, learn it, keep it if it works," but a little insight would help those who are lost in the myriad possibilities of modern disc selection. Thanks.

William Kilmer
Sedgley Woods DGC
Philadelphia, PA

William,

I have a very overstable driver, slightly overstable driver, stable driver, stable mid-range, understable mid-range, roller, upside down disc, and putter. That is all I use. Any other discs I carry are just back ups of these. It doesn't matter which course I'm at, I use this same combination.

One of the biggest mistakes I see amateur players (as well as many pros) do is to carry way too many different discs in their bags. Having a small selection of consistent flying discs that do what you want and that you can control is all you need.

As far as weight goes, the general rule I encourage players to follow is this: Whichever disc will land you in the fairway most often is the one to throw. There is no question that lighter discs will fly a little further, but many players find that they are not as easy to control as heavier ones. If this is the case with you then go with heavy. If not then throw lighter on the longer holes.