Posted on November 21, 2024November 21, 2024 by Jason Southwick — Leave a comment

Innova’s Baby Destroyer: What makes it so good?

Meet the Bradley Williams Tour Series Halo Star Baby Destroyer

This year, Innova released a very special Tour Series disc for Bradley Williams – the Baby Destroyer. While the Baby Destroyer uses the same mold as the standard Destroyer, it has notably different material traits and flight characteristics. For one, the Baby Destroyer is only available in the 156 to 160 gram weight class. Also, it’s produced in Innova’s ultra-popular Halo Star plastic blend. For these reasons, among others, the Baby Destroyer has quickly gained a large following of fans. In a very short time, it’s become one of the most popular Tour Series discs of 2024. In this guide, we’ll deep dive into what really sets the Baby Destroyer apart. Let’s see how it might help you elevate your game!

1 Destroyer, 2 Destroyer, Red Destroyer, Blue Destroyer

Run to run, the flight traits of a Destroyer can vary drastically. Sometimes, you may even find that two Destroyers made in the same run can differ. Inconsistency seems like a bad term to describe any kind of manufacturing, but when it comes to golf discs that isn’t always the case. Innova’s ability to produce different flights out of a single mold is something that actually gets them praise. Instead of having to bag 5 different distance driver molds to get a decent range of stability, Innova throwers can more easily bag 5 versions of just the 1 mold for the same effect. Elite-level disc golfers commonly use this kind of bag structure, called cycling.

Design and Flight Characteristics of the Baby Destroyer

The Baby Destroyer is much easier to throw than most runs of Destroyer, but it isn’t it’s own mold. The things that set it apart are mainly its plastic, weight, dome, and wing shape. Innova makes the Baby Destroyer in a lighter weight class, ranging from around 155g to 160g. Players who are used to throwing heavier discs can still enjoy the Baby Destroyer though, as it’s Halo Star plastic keeps it from being too flippy. You see, discs made in Halo Star plastic tend to be more overstable than their standard Star counterparts. The underside of the rim, being an area that we can see large diversity in Destroyers, isn’t quite flat like some of the flippier runs, but has a slight concave arc to it. They also tend to have a fair amount of dome without being too much of a pop-top.

All of these traits combined allow the Baby Destroyer very easy to get a hold of for big difference, without being too understable or overstable for the majority of players.

Why Choose Halo Star Plastic?

Emerging for the first time just a few years ago, Halo Star is one of Innova’s newest plastic endeavors. While Halo Star is nearly identical to Star when it comes to feel and durability, there are a couple distinct differences. The first difference is simply appearance. Discs made in Halo Star have a different color rim and flight plate, giving it a ring or “halo” effect. Hence the name. The other difference is in it’s flight path. Discs in Halo Star are typically more overstable than their Star brethren. If you’re looking to get a more overstable version of any disc, give Halo Star a shot!

Ideal Players for the Bradley Williams Destroyer

If you can hold a disc in your hand, than the Baby Destroyer is for you! While it may not be the best choice to throw into a direct headwind due to its weight class, the Baby Destroyer maintains a decent level of overstability. This overstability allows for the disc to not flip over too much, even for power throwers. Such power throwers will find the Baby Destroyer to be the ultimate tailwind bomber, and may get more distance out of it than their standard distance drivers due simply to the difference in weight!

Why the Halo Star Baby Destroyer is a Must-Have in 2024

The Halo Star Baby Destroyer has solidified its place as a must-have disc in 2024. This is due to its unique combination of lightweight design, premium plastic, and versatile performance. Its light weight range makes it an excellent choice for players seeking effortless distance. You’ll find a straighter, easier, and more controllable flight, without losing the key overstable finish that Destroyers are known for. Crafted in the eye-catching and durable Halo Star plastic, this disc offers exceptional grip and reliability, even in varying conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned player looking for a reliable distance driver or a newer player seeking a manageable yet high-performing disc, Innova’s Baby Destroyer checks all the boxes. With its distinct flight characteristics and widespread appeal, it’s no surprise that this disc is making waves in the disc golf community this year.

Posted on November 9, 2024November 9, 2024 by Jason Southwick — Leave a comment

Prodigy Disc Names – A Guide to Prodigy’s Naming and Numbering

Introduction to prodigy’s Unique Disc Naming System

Prodigy Disc has one of the most unique and systematic naming systems. While innovative, their system for naming discs can seem a bit confusing at first glance. Each disc name combines a letter (or two) and number. For example, some of Prodigy’s discs are named things like H7, D3, or PA2. The letter(s) designates the type of disc (such as Hybrid, distance, or Putt and Approach). Conversely, the number indicates the disc’s stability. Generally, a higher number means a more understable flight path. To add another layer, Prodigy also uses a separate numbering system for their plastic types. The higher the plastic number, the more premium and durable the plastic is. In this guide, we’ll break down Prodigy’s naming conventions so you can quickly identify which discs and plastics are right for your style and skill level.

Understanding Prodigy’s Disc Names: What Each Letter Means

Prodigy’s disc naming system starts with letters that designate the type of disc, making it easier for players to select discs suited for specific roles on the course. The most common letters include ‘D’ for Distance drivers, ‘H’ for Hybrid drivers, ‘F’ for Fairway drivers, and ‘PA’ for Putt and Approach discs. Each letter category has been designed with certain flight characteristics in mind. For example, Distance drivers (D) are built for maximum throw power and distance, while Hybrid drivers (H) offer a balance of distance and control, making them versatile for both forehand and backhand shots. Fairway drivers (F) prioritize control over pure distance, and Putt and Approach discs (PA) are intended for short-range shots. By understanding the primary purpose of each disc type, players can build a versatile bag with discs that cover a range of throwing needs and situations.

The full list of Prodigy’s disc name letters include D, H, F, FX, M, Mx, A, PA, and PX.

Breaking Down Stability: How Prodigy’s Numbers Indicate Flight Patterns

Prodigy’s numbering system plays a crucial role in identifying a disc’s stability. Stability being how much the disc tends to turn or fade during flight. Like we mentioned in the intro paragraph, each Prodigy disc name has a combination of a letters and a number. The number indicates the disc’s stability rating, with lower numbers representing more overstable discs and higher numbers representing more understable options. For example, a D1 is the most overstable in the D line, ideal for power throwers and windy conditions. Contrailiy, the D6 is the most understable, making it easier to turn over and more suitable for slower arm speeds. Understanding this stability scale helps players select discs that match their throwing style and specific shot needs. These numbers start at 1, and can go all the way up to 9 (that’s super duper flippy!)

Prodigy’s Plastic Grades: What the Numbers Mean for Quality and Durability

Beyond disc types and stability, Prodigy disc names also include a separate numbering system for their plastic types. The plastic number indicates the quality and durability of the material at hand. Prodigy uses numbers such as 300, 400, 500, and even 750 to signify plastic grades. The higher the number, the more premium and durable the materials. For instance, 300 Plastic is a softer, baseline plastic, ideal for putters and short approach shots. Adversely, 400 and 500 plastics are known for their high levels of durability and performance. The premium 750 Plastic is Prodigy’s most durable option, designed to withstand extensive wear and maintain reliable flight patterns over time. By understanding the plastic numbering system, players can make informed choices based on their durability needs and personal feel preferences.

Comparing Stability and Plastic Numbers: Avoiding Common Confusions

With Prodigy’s numbering system covering both disc stability and plastic durability, it’s easy for players to mix up the two. Stability numbers, found in the disc’s name, refer to the flight characteristics. These numbers will help show how the disc will behave in the air. The plastic numbers quality and longevity of the disc’s material, and are always in the hundreds. For example, a D3 in 400 Plastic is a distance driver with moderate understability, made in a durable material. On the other hand, the PA1 in 300 Plastic is an overstable putt and approach disc that’s less durable. By keeping stability and plastic numbers distinct, players can confidently choose discs that align with their flight needs and preferred feel, making it easier to build a consistent and reliable disc selection.

Now when you see a Prodigy Disc Name like 400 A5, you may be able to guess that the disc is made in the durable 400 plastic, is an approach disc (A), and is one of the most understable of their approach lineup.

How to Choose the Right Prodigy Disc for Your Game

Selecting the right Prodigy disc for your game comes down to balancing the stability rating with the plastic type that best suits your needs. Knowing how to navigate their disc names really helps with this process. For big arm players looking to add distance, a disc with a lower stability number is ideal. Also, durable plastics like 400 or 500 can provide consistent flight patterns over multiple rounds. Beginners or those with lower arm speeds may find higher stability numbers easier to control. These types of discs can help them achieve straighter flights with less fade. Meanwhile, putters and approach discs in softer plastics, like 300, offer excellent grip, ideal for short throws and precision shots. By understanding Prodigy’s stability and plastic systems, you can tailor your disc choices to your skill level, preferred shot types, and overall play style.

Most Popular Prodigy Discs by Category

Now that you know Prodigy disc names, nothing can stand in your way! To make it easier for players to choose, here’s a quick reference guide to some of Prodigy’s most popular discs across different categories. For distance drivers, the D2 and D3 are fan favorites, offering reliable stability and great distance potential. In the hybrid driver category, the H3 provides a balance of control and distance, making it a versatile choice for various shots. For fairway drivers, the F5 is a standout, known for its straight flight and glide. Many players regard the PA3 as one of the most consistent overstable putters in Prodigy’s PA line. By familiarizing yourself with these popular options, you can better navigate Prodigy’s offerings and choose the discs that suit your specific game needs.

If you want to learn more about Prodigy Disc names, check out what they have to say about it below!

Posted on October 22, 2024October 22, 2024 by Jason Southwick — Leave a comment

Harp Vs. Zone: What is the Ultimate Approach Disc?

Introduction: Harp Vs. Zone – The Ultimate Approach Disc Showdown

As a disc golfer, you may have heard this common quip before, “drive for show, putt for dough”. That’s all fine and dandy, but it leaves out one of the most crucial parts of the game: approaching. Approaching the basket is its own unique skill requiring tact, touch, and consistency. Throwing good approach shots can save many strokes, especially when using the right approach disc. The Westside Discs Harp and the Discraft Zone are two of the most popular approach discs in the sport. Each make the job of approaching the basket easier on the player. For this Harp VS. Zone showdown, we’ll be addressing what makes these discs so great for approaching, what makes them different from each other, and which one is the right one for you!

Understanding the Basics: What Makes a Popular Approach Disc?

Most players can agree on a few key traits that make up a good approach disc. The first is overstability. You want a disc that consistently fades, and isn’t ever at risk of turning over, even in high-wind situations. After stability comes speed. The type of disc you’ll use to approach the basket can change drastically based on distance and conditions. The most popular approach discs though, are typically in the 4-speed class. 4-speed discs are faster than most putters, but still slower than your typical midrange. The third kay trait is dynamic grip, which is most important for players who throw both backhands and forehands. You want a disc that feels good in the hand for both types of shot.

Harp Vs. Zone: Comparing Flight Paths and Stability

Both the Harp and Zone have all the popular approach disc traits we went over above. Each has consistent overstability, a speed of 4, and great hand-feel for forehands and backhands. They do also differ in a few ways, especially when it comes to flight path and stability.

The Westside Discs Harp tends to have a straighter flight initially, but still a predictable fade. On the other hand, Discraft’s Zone is known for its strong fade and resistance to flipping, even in windy conditions. This gives it a bit more stability throughout the flight. Both discs excel at handling power, but the Zone typically offers a sharper, more aggressive finish, while the Harp provides a slightly smoother, more gradual fade. Depending on your throwing style and the course conditions, one might provide an edge over the other in terms of flight and stability.

Hand-Feel: How the Harp and Zone Differ in Grip and Comfort

Hand-feel is something that often needs direct personal attention. Preference is a key component of comfort, and you as player may strongly prefer the feel of one of these discs over the other. That being said, we can go over the basics of hand-feel differences for the Harp vs. the Zone.

The Harp has a slightly deeper rim and more rounded profile. This gives it a fuller feel in the hand. Many players appreciate this when seeking comfort and a secure grip. The Zone, on the other hand, has a shallower profile. This makes it feel smaller and streamlined in the hand. This can be particularly appealing to players who prefer a quicker, more direct release. The Harp’s depth can provide a bit more confidence for players who like a fuller grip, while the Zone’s shape can allow for more finesse and precision on forehand flicks specifically. Depending on you personal grip preference and hand size, you may like one drastically more than the other even though they’re fairly similar overall!

Durability and Plastics

Both Westside Discs and Discraft have a huge array of plastic blend offerings. Each brand offers unique materials that impact performance and longevity. Plastic preference can really sway the tide as far as Harp vs. Zone goes. The Harp is commonly found in plastics like VIP, Tournament, and BT Hard/Medium/Soft. VIP and Tournament are both premium plastics, which make them extremely durable. The BT blends are baseline, which allows them to beat up faster and have superior grip. Many players carry a premium blend, that will maintain it’s overstable flight, as well as a baseline blend, which will beat up to fly straighter. The same concept applies to the Zone, which is often produced in Discraft’s Z, ESP, and Putter Line blends. Z and ESP are their durable premium blends, while putter line is the softer and less durable option.

Player Preferences Regarding Harp Vs. Zone

As we’ve gone over in this article, even minute differences in discs can polarize golfers’ opinions. Everything from the discs flight path, to its plastic, to its hand-feel can be enough to sway a players preference. Players who choose the Harp typically enjoy its slightly deeper profile, which offers a more comfortable grip for those with larger hands. It also can be preferable for players who are backhand dominant. The Harp’s flight path also appeals to players looking for a disc that flies straighter with a smooth, predictable fade at the end. Additionally, the BT Soft Harp specifically has gained a cult following due to the way its flight-plate puddles in over time, offering a unique feel that players often rave about.

Adversely, players who prefer the Zone are often drawn to its shallower, low-profile design. This allows for a quicker release, especially on forehand flicks. The Zone’s strong overstable nature and more aggressive fade give it an edge for players who need reliability in windy conditions or for those who tend to throw with more power. The Zone’s overstability throughout the flight, combined with its ability to resist flipping even when beat in, makes it a go-to for players seeking consistency on the course. Ultimately, the choice between the harp and the Zone boils down to personal grip preferences, playing style, and the specific demands of the course of conditions.

Harp Vs. Zone – Making the Right Choice for Your Approach Game

Have you decided which approach disc is best suited for you? If not, try them both! More often than not, the best way to find out if a disc is right for you is to throw it yourself. There are also tons of amazing approach discs out there similar in popularity to the Zone and Harp, such as the Innova Toro, the Discmania Tactic, the MVP Entropy, etc. It could be that the right choice for you is to carry both a Harp and a Zone. Many players love the straight, controllable flight of a beat-in baseline Harp, and also see the value in the overstability of a premium Zone. Who’s the winner of the Harp Vs. Zone battle? The world may never know.

I’ll tell you a secret though… I bag Zones.

Posted on September 13, 2024September 13, 2024 by Jason Southwick — Leave a comment

Champion and Star: Understanding Innova’s Top Premium Plastics

Introduction

Innova is synonymous with innovation in the disc golf world. As the leading manufacturer in the sport, they’ve pioneered some of the most popular discs and materials used on disc golf courses today. Among Innova’s vast array of plastics, the Champion and Star blends stand out as their top premium options. Both offer unique advantages to players. This article delves into these two top-tier plastics, examining their distinct characteristics and guiding players on choosing the right material for their style of play. The head to head battle of Champion vs. Star is underway! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the sport, understanding the differences between Champion and Star plastics can significantly impact your game strategy and disc selection.

Understanding Plastic Types

Innova has a huge selection of premium and baseline plastics. Check out our blog post “Disc Golf Plastics” which takes a look at all of Innova’s plastics for more information. Baseline plastic is cheaper, and as a result, it’s less durable. Discs will often fly more understable right off the shelf when they’re in a baseline plastic. Premium plastics, like Champion and Star, are extremely durable, so their flights won’t change as much over time.

Champion Plastic: Features and Benefits

Champion plastic is a translucent blend, meaning you can usually see through it. It comes in a plethora of colors and weights. Innova has many Champion plastic variants such as Metal Flake Champion, Blizzard Champion, or Color Glow Champion. Champion is one of the most durable blends that Innova offers. Over time, the flight may change slightly with wear, but the changes are usually minimal. Champion offers terrific overstability off the shelf. In fact, it’s one of the more overstable flying plastic blends.

Star Plastic: Features and Benefits

Star plastic is opaque, or non see through. Known for having exceptional grip, Star plastic is a common choice for everything from distance drivers all the way down to driving putters. Star is Innova’s most popular plastic. Several variants exist using Star as a base, such as Halo or Proto Glow.

Champion and Star: Star Plastic Destroyer

Side-by-Side Comparison: Champion and Star

Let’s compare these two plastics head to head! While both are top of the line premium plastics, their differences are what allow them to shine. There are two main differences between these plastics – durability and stability.

Champion has the edge on Star when it comes to durability, but that doesn’t inherently make Champion more desirable. Many disc golfers love using beat up discs, or wish to beat in their discs to make them more understable. These types of players may desire Star over Champion for this specific reason. Star is still a premium plastic, and is very durable, but not quite as durable as Champion.

The stability between Star and Champion can vary drastically. Off the shelf, there is sometimes no noticeable difference in stability. More often than not though, Champion ends up being slightly more overstable than Star.

Player Preferences and Use Case

In the world of disc golf, player preferences can play a major role in disc selection. Do you like putting with a bead, or no bead? Are blue discs or pink discs your favorite? Do you throw Star or Champion? Most players end up throwing a mix of Star and Champion depending on their stability needs, or grip preferences. Finding a disc that flies drastically differently in Star as opposed to Champion could help you fill slots in your bag without bagging too many models.

Champion vs. Star: Which Plastic Wins?

The ultimate Innova plastic question: Which is better, Star or Champion? While it’s tough to say if one is simply better than the other, we can highlight the benefits of both. Some players prefer Champion for it’s very high durability and slight edge on stability, nonetheless, others prefer Star for its superior grip, or because they want to beat it up over time.

Posted on March 15, 2024March 15, 2024 by Jason Southwick — Leave a comment

Disc Golf Plastics: An Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

Disc golf is not just a game of skill and strategy; it’s also a game of equipment, where the type of disc you use can significantly impact your play. One crucial aspect of this equipment is the disc’s plastic type. Understanding the differences between various disc golf plastics and their effect on flight patterns is essential for any player looking to improve their game. In this article, we’ll go over different plastics produced by major brands like Innova, Discraft, Latitude 64, and MVP, so you can hit the course with confidence in your plastic knowledge!

The Importance of Plastic Types in Disc Golf

The type of plastic used in a disc golf disc affects everything from grip and durability to flight patterns and stability. Disc golf plastics can be broadly categorized into two groups: premium plastics and baseline plastics. Each has its benefits and preferred conditions for use.

Premium vs. Baseline Plastics

Premium Plastics

Known for their durability and resistance to wear, premium plastics maintain their original flight characteristics longer than baseline plastics. They are ideal for players who want consistent performance over time. These plastics typically have a smoother finish and are less prone to scratches and nicks.

Baseline Plastics

Baseline plastics offer superior grip and are more affordable, but they wear down faster. This faster wear can be advantageous for players who prefer their discs to ‘beat in’ and develop new flight patterns over time. Baseline plastics are often the choice for putters due to their excellent grip.

Brand-Specific Disc Golf Plastics

Innova

Champion

Champion is one of Innova’s most popular premium plastics, second only to Star. It’s a translucent or clear plastic that’s very durable, and usually runs a little stiffer than other blends. Discs in Champion plastic tend to be a little more overstable than the same disc in another plastic. Innova also has a few variations of Champion such as Metal Flake Champion, Glow Champion, Halo Champion, and Blizzard Champion.

Star

Star is an opaque premium plastic, and is Innova’s most popular blend. Discs produced in Star plastic tend to be little softer than their Champion counterparts, and tend to beat in a little quicker. While the difference is usually negligible or nonexistent, Star discs can have less stability out of the box than the same disc in Champion plastic. Star also has many variant plastic blends such as the popular Halo Star, Star Color Glow, Swirly Star, and the ultra soft and grippy GStar blend.

DX

DX is Innova’s flagship baseline plastic. This blend offers a softer, grippier, and chalkier feel than anything in premium plastic. Baseline plastics such as DX are more prone to wear. The main use of baseline plastics such as DX is Other baseline plastics include KC Pro, JK Pro, R-Pro, and XT.

Discraft

ESP

Discraft’s most popular premium blend offers something that not many other companies can offer: every disc is unique. ESP is Discraft’s opaque, and slightly less durable blend. Instead of just solid colors, ESP is often swirled and ran from one color to the next. The swirls, combined with Discraft’s vast array of stamp foils, ensure that finding two ESP discs that look exactly the same is next to impossible.

Z

Z is Discraft’s translucent and most durable blend. Stock runs of Z are only available in solid colors, unlike ESP. But there are also many plastic blends that stem from Z, such as Z Swirl, Z Lite, Metallic Z, CryZtal, Z Flx, and Z Glo.

Putter Line

Discraft’s putter line is exactly what it sounds like, and is used for all of their putters. Putter line is a baseline plastic, so it’s not very durable, but it has the chalky and tacky grip that players often want for their putters. Putter Line Soft is also available for most putters.

Latitude 64

Gold Line

Gold Line is Latitude 64’s opaque, softer premium blend. You may be catching on by now that each and every company has very similar classifications for plastic. Most companies have a softer opaque blend which is the most popular, and then a see-through premium blend that’s more durable, and a baseline plastic for their putters. Every company has many more plastics available, but most stem from these popular three main plastic types.

Opto Line

Opto Line is Latitude’s more durable, translucent plastic blend. It’s a little softer than translucent plastics from other companies, and feels really good in the hand. There are also many variants of Opto, such as Opto-X, Opto Ice, Opto Air, Opto Ice Orbit and Opto Moonshine Orbit, as well as Opto Moonshine, Opto Glimmer, and Opto Ice Chameleon.

Zero Line

Latitude’s flagship baseline putter blend, Zero Line, comes in three firmness grades, each one available in solid colors or with swirls.

MVP

Proton

Proton is MVP’s translucent blend. Discs in this blend are typically a little more overstable than discs in Neutron plastic.

Neutron

Neutron is MVP’s most popular plastic, and you guessed it, it’s opaque. MVP also has a plastic called Cosmic Neutron, which has the same feel as Neutron but have swirly colors instead of one solid color. MVP also uses an air-bubble technology to help them offer a full range of weights. Neutron with this technology is called Fission plastic, and has a slightly different feel when compared to Neutron.

Electron

Electron is MVP’s baseline plastic, and is available in three firmness grades. There is also a swirly Cosmic Electron blend, which is also available in three firmness grades.

Plastic Performance in Different Conditions

Cold Weather Performance

Softer plastics, typically baseline types, perform better in cold weather as they retain flexibility and grip. In contrast, some premium plastics can become too stiff and slick in cold temperatures. The problem is, baseline plastics are more prone to damage or breaking when frigid temperatures are around. Finding soft premium blends like Discraft’s ESP FLX, Innova’s GStar, or Latitude’s Fro st will help your performance significantly on cold days.

Wet Conditions

In wet conditions, baseline plastics often provide better grip, reducing the chances of the disc slipping during release. The key to performing in wet conditions goes beyond plastic choice, and has a lot to do with keeping your discs dry. Bring plenty of towels, and be sure that you have your Max Wax with you so you can get grip even if it’s pouring.

Players’ Preferences

Durability vs. Wear

Some players prefer less durable plastics as they ‘beat in’ faster, changing their flight characteristics. Beat in discs will become more understable, and will develop traits like “late-fade” which is harder to find in a disc off the shelf. On the other hand, players who prefer a new discs’ characteristics value consistency and longevity, and tend to lean towards the more durable premium plastics.

Role of Disc Wear

The way a disc ‘beats in’ is crucial in the sport. A well-used disc in any plastic can offer flight patterns that cannot be replicated with new discs. Instead of bagging 4 or 5 different mid-ranges of different stabilities, many pros will bag 4 or 5 of one mold in particular in various states of wear. This phenomenon is called “cycling”.

Conclusion

Understanding the nuances of disc golf plastics is crucial for every player. Whether you prioritize durability, grip, or the evolution of flight patterns over time, there’s a plastic type suited to your needs. Experimenting with different plastics from various brands can significantly enhance your playing experience and strategy on the course.