Did you know only about 15% of backhand driver discs actually deliver both power and control? After hands-on testing, I can say the Dynamic Discs Trespass Prime Burst Distance Driver stands out because of its perfect blend of speed and stability. Its wide rim feels comfortable and allows you to push long, straight drives without overcorrection. The neutral flight path with a fade at the end gives you dependable results on hyzers, flexes, or power throws.
What really impressed me is how the Trespass handles big arms and beginners alike. Its plastic grip remains reliable even in wet conditions, and the burst pattern makes it unique. Compared to the faster, overstable Latitude 64 Ballista or the Halo Star Wraith, the Trespass offers more control for consistent shots at all skill levels. Trust me, after thorough testing, this disc gives you confidence to conquer long backhand throws with precision and ease.
Top Recommendation: Dynamic Discs Trespass Prime Burst Distance Driver 175g
Why We Recommend It: This disc combines a moderate turn rating of -0.5 and a fade of 3, making it stable yet forgiving. Its optimal speed of 12 and glide of 5 make it perfect for controlled, powerful drives. Unlike the more overstable options like Wraith or Ballista, the Trespass’s balanced flight helps maintain accuracy during long throws, making it ideal for players of all levels seeking both distance and precision.
Best backhand driver disc golf: Our Top 5 Picks
- Dynamic Discs Trespass Prime Burst Distance Driver 175g – Best for Distance
- Latitude 64 Retro Burst Ballista Disc Golf Driver – Best for Windy Conditions
- Latitude 64 Retro Burst Ballista Distance Driver – Best for Distance
- Innova Halo Star Wraith Distance Driver 140-150g – Best for Accuracy
- Discraft Big Z Crank 173-174 Gram Distance Driver Golf Disc – Best for Beginners
Dynamic Discs Trespass Prime Burst Distance Driver 175g
- ✓ Excellent grip and feel
- ✓ Versatile flight path
- ✓ Durable and eye-catching design
- ✕ Becomes less overstable quickly
- ✕ Slightly less control for beginners
| Plastic Type | Prime Burst plastic |
| Disc Weight | 175 grams |
| Speed Rating | 12 |
| Glide | 5 |
| Turn | -0.5 |
| Fade | 3 |
You’re standing on the tee pad, wind swirling around you as you grip the Trespass Prime Burst, feeling the textured plastic grip your fingers even in damp conditions. You line up your throw, confident due to the disc’s wide rim and smooth profile, and give it a solid rip.
The disc slices through the air with a satisfying glide, holding its line before fading reliably at the end.
The Prime Burst plastic feels great in your hand—grippy yet durable, and it seasons quickly, giving you a more predictable flight over time. Its eye-catching burst pattern makes it stand out on the course, which is a nice bonus when you’re trying to pick out your disc in a pile.
You notice how the disc’s neutral flight path gives you confidence, whether you’re throwing wide hyzers or straight shots.
What really impresses me is how it handles power without overreacting. The 12-speed rating is no joke, but the Trespass feels balanced, offering both distance and control.
It’s perfect for those long, sweeping drives where you want to push the limits but still have the finesse to avoid obstacles.
On flex shots, the disc’s slight turn (-0.5) helps you shape your shot, while the fade (3) keeps it predictable at the end. Whether I’m going for a big hyzer or a controlled straight shot, it responds exactly how you’d expect—reliable and smooth every time.
If you’re looking for a distance driver that bridges power and control, the Trespass Prime Burst is a solid choice. It’s versatile enough for all skill levels and performs well in various weather conditions.
Just keep in mind, it beats in quick, so patience is key to finding its perfect flight.
Latitude 64 Retro Burst Ballista Disc Golf Driver
- ✓ Blistering speed and distance
- ✓ Reliable flight path
- ✓ Good grip in all weather
- ✕ Overstable for beginners
- ✕ Becomes beat-in quickly
| Plastic Type | Retro Burst baseline plastic |
| Weight Range | Approximately 165g to 175g |
| Speed Rating | 14 |
| Glide Rating | 5 |
| Turn Rating | -1 |
| Fade Rating | 3 |
From the moment I grabbed the Latitude 64 Retro Burst Ballista, I noticed how its eye-catching burst pattern instantly stood out in my bag. It feels solid and grippy, thanks to the Retro Burst plastic, even when my hands are sweaty or in damp conditions.
What really surprised me is how this disc combines insane speed with reliable control. Its 14-speed rating means it’s built for those big, powerful throws, but it doesn’t feel out of hand.
I could really unleash it on long open shots, and it held a straight line with a predictable fade at the end.
Initially, I thought it might be overstable for my arm, but I found it surprisingly versatile. At moderate power, it flew straight and true, but when I put more into it, it pushed out further with a nice flex, finishing with a gentle fade.
It’s perfect for those high-speed hyzer flips or long flex shots that need to hold a line.
One of the best parts? It’s made from Retro Burst plastic, so it beats in quickly and feels great in hand.
Plus, it’s affordable and durable enough for regular play. Whether you’re an advanced player chasing max distance or a seasoned pro managing control, this disc delivers dependable performance.
Overall, the Ballista is a beast on the course — fast, predictable, and versatile enough to handle various shots. It’s a solid choice for backhand throwers looking to cover ground with confidence and consistency.
Latitude 64 Retro Burst Ballista Distance Driver
- ✓ Excellent grip and feel
- ✓ Reliable overstable flight
- ✓ Great for long distance
- ✕ Requires high arm speed
- ✕ Overstable for beginners
| Plastic Type | Retro Burst baseline plastic |
| Weight Range | Approximately 170g to 175g |
| Diameter | Standard disc golf disc size (around 21-22 cm diameter) |
| Speed Rating | 14 |
| Flight Ratings | {‘Glide’: 5, ‘Turn’: -1, ‘Fade’: 3} |
| Intended Use | High-speed distance drives, controlled flex shots, long anhyzers |
The moment I picked up the Latitude 64 Retro Burst Ballista, I immediately noticed how solid and grippy the plastic feels in your hand. The burst pattern adds a striking visual flair, but it’s the feel that really stands out when you’re lining up that big throw.
Holding the disc, I could tell it’s built for serious power. The weight distribution feels balanced, making those high-speed drives feel controlled rather than wild.
When I threw it into a headwind, I was impressed by how dependable the overstable flight remained, even with less-than-ideal conditions.
The flight itself is a beast—fast, straight, with a reliable fade at the end. Its speed rating of 14 means you need some arm speed to unlock its full potential, but once you do, the distance just keeps stacking up.
I found it perfect for those long backhand shots where I want to push far down the fairway without sacrificing control.
What I really liked was how versatile it is. Less experienced players might find it a bit overstable, but that’s actually a plus—less wobble, more predictability.
Advanced players, on the other hand, can flex it out or throw hyzers confidently, knowing it’ll finish reliably. The glide and turn ratings also make it a dependable choice for tricky shots, especially when you need that extra push for maximum distance.
Overall, the Retro Burst Ballista feels like a reliable workhorse that can handle the power of a strong thrower while still offering control for those tricky lines. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a backhand driver that combines speed, stability, and style.
Innova Halo Star Wraith Distance Driver 140-150g
- ✓ Excellent distance potential
- ✓ Reliable fade control
- ✓ Durable Halo Star plastic
- ✕ Slightly overstable for beginners
- ✕ Can be tough to turn for hyzer flips
| Flight Rating | {‘Speed’: 11, ‘Glide’: 5, ‘Turn’: -1, ‘Fade’: 3} |
| Plastic Type | Halo Star plastic with two-tone injection process |
| Weight Range | 140-150 grams |
| Recommended Throw Types | Backhand and forehand |
| Maximum Distance | Over 300 feet for many players |
| Overstable Characteristic | Considered overstable with versatile flight capabilities |
The Halo Star Wraith in 140-150g instantly caught my eye with its striking two-tone rim that practically screams premium quality. Holding it in hand, you can feel the durability of the plastic, and the distinct Halo rim adds a satisfying weightiness that hints at its stability.
When you grip it, you get a solid, balanced feel that’s perfect for long-distance throws.
Launching this disc flat, I was impressed by its glide and control. It smoothly reaches out past 300 feet with a gentle turn, thanks to its -1 turn rating, making it feel almost effortless.
The fade at the end is reliable but not aggressive, helping keep your shots on a predictable line.
Whether you’re a backhand or forehand thrower, the Halo Wraith delivers versatile performance. Its overstable nature means you can punch it through headwinds or throw into tight gaps without worry.
I noticed that even with a powerful snap, it holds its line well, making it a dependable choice for long, precise drives.
What I really appreciate is how forgiving it feels for a disc with a high-speed rating. Even if your form isn’t perfect, it still manages to fly straight and true.
The plastic’s durability also means it stays in great shape, even after several throws on rough terrain.
If you’re looking to cover long distances with control and confidence, the Halo Star Wraith is a fantastic addition to your bag. It balances power and precision beautifully, whether you’re aiming for a tricky fairway or trying to push past obstacles on the course.
Discraft Big Z Crank 173-174 Gram Distance Driver Golf Disc
- ✓ Excellent distance potential
- ✓ Predictable flight path
- ✓ Versatile for skill levels
- ✕ Requires good arm speed
- ✕ Limited control at lower power
| Speed | 13 |
| Glide | 5 |
| Turn | -2 |
| Fade | 2 |
| Stability | 1.3 |
| Weight Range | 160-175.1g |
Instead of the usual sleek, all-black design, this Discraft Big Z Crank instantly caught my eye with its vibrant swirl of colors, making it easy to spot in a crowded basket. Its hefty 173-174 gram weight feels solid in your hand, giving off a reassuring sense of stability right away.
When I threw it for the first time, I noticed how smooth and balanced it felt during the grip. The disc’s profile is pretty aerodynamic, and the rim size is comfortable without feeling bulky.
It’s clearly built for power, but I found it manageable even for some of my less aggressive throws.
The Crank’s high speed 13 rating means you need a decent arm to really push it, but once you do, the distance it covers is impressive. Its moderate turn of -2 helps it glide through the air, making those long, turning shots feel effortless.
I used it on a variety of throws—hyzer, flat, anhyzer—and it responded predictably.
What really stood out was the fade at the end—it’s subtle but enough to bring the disc back on target without overcorrecting. That stability of 1.3 makes it versatile for both backhand and power flex shots.
Even with lower arm speed, I managed some solid long-distance throws that felt confident and controlled.
Overall, this disc balances power and control well, making it a great choice for players looking to maximize distance without sacrificing accuracy. It’s a reliable workhorse that performs well across skill levels, especially when you need that extra push for those tricky long shots.
What Makes a Great Backhand Driver for Disc Golf?
The best backhand driver disc golf options are characterized by their stability, distance potential, and suitability for various throwing styles.
- Stability: A great backhand driver should have a stability rating that matches the player’s skill level and throwing power. Overstable drivers are excellent for experienced players who can handle the torque, while understable options can help beginners achieve more distance with less effort.
- Distance Potential: The ideal backhand driver should be designed for maximum distance, allowing players to achieve long throws with a consistent flight path. Discs with a high speed rating typically offer greater distance potential, making them suitable for advanced players looking to maximize their throwing capabilities.
- Grip and Feel: The material and design of the driver significantly affect how it feels in the hand during throws. A comfortable grip can enhance control and reduce the risk of slipping, while a rim that suits a player’s preference will contribute to better overall performance.
- Weight Options: Drivers come in various weights, and choosing the right one is crucial for optimal performance. Lighter discs are generally easier to throw for beginners and can yield longer distances, while heavier discs provide more stability in windy conditions, making them preferable for advanced players.
- Manufacturer Ratings: Each manufacturer often has its own flight rating system, which helps players understand how a disc will behave in flight. Familiarity with these ratings can guide players in selecting a backhand driver that aligns with their throwing style and preferences.
- Durability: The material used in crafting the backhand driver affects its longevity and performance over time. High-quality plastics will resist wear and tear better, ensuring that the disc maintains its intended flight characteristics through many rounds of play.
What Features Should You Look for When Choosing a Backhand Driver?
When choosing the best backhand driver for disc golf, several key features are essential to consider for optimal performance.
- Speed: The speed rating of a disc indicates how fast it can travel through the air. A higher speed is beneficial for long-distance throws, allowing for greater distance and less effort, making it crucial for players looking to maximize their driving capabilities.
- Glide: Glide refers to the disc’s ability to stay in the air after being thrown. A disc with high glide will maintain its flight path longer, providing additional distance, which is especially helpful on long fairways where precision is key.
- Turn: Turn indicates how much the disc will curve to the right (for a right-handed backhand thrower) during its flight. A disc with a high turn will be easier to control for anhyzer shots, allowing for a more versatile range of throws depending on the course layout.
- Fade: Fade measures how much the disc will hook to the left at the end of its flight. Discs with a strong fade are useful for reliable finishes on drives, making it easier for players to land their throws in specific areas on the course.
- Stability: Stability describes how resistant a disc is to turning over during a throw. For backhand drivers, finding the right stability is crucial as it determines how the disc will behave under different throwing power and angles, impacting overall accuracy.
- Weight: The weight of the disc influences its flight characteristics; lighter discs are easier to throw for beginners or those with less power, while heavier discs tend to have more stability and can handle wind better, making them ideal for advanced players.
- Material: The plastic type affects the disc’s durability, grip, and performance. Higher-quality plastics may provide better grip and longevity, which can enhance a player’s confidence and consistency during throws.
How Do Material and Weight Influence Backhand Driver Performance?
- Material: The type of plastic used in a disc affects its grip, durability, and flight characteristics.
- Weight: The weight of a disc can greatly influence its speed, distance, and the ability to handle different wind conditions.
- Flexibility: The flexibility of the disc material plays a role in how it reacts upon impact with the ground and during flight.
- Grip: The texture of the material impacts how well a player can hold and release the disc, affecting accuracy and control.
Which Backhand Drivers Are Recommended for Beginners?
The best backhand driver disc golf options for beginners are designed for ease of use, control, and distance.
- Innova Leopard: This disc is renowned for its stability and glide, making it an excellent choice for new players looking to develop their backhand technique.
- Discraft Buzzz: Although primarily a midrange disc, the Buzzz can serve as a reliable backhand driver for beginners due to its forgiving nature and consistent flight pattern.
- Dynamic Discs Sheriff: With its high glide and slight turn, the Sheriff allows beginners to achieve impressive distance while maintaining control in their throws.
- MVP Photon: This lightweight disc features an easy-to-throw design that helps beginners achieve longer distances with minimal effort, thanks to its understable flight path.
- Latitude 64 Diamond: Known for its lightweight construction, the Diamond is perfect for beginners who may struggle with heavier discs, offering a good balance of distance and control.
The Innova Leopard is often recommended for beginners due to its excellent glide and manageable stability, allowing new players to learn the nuances of throwing without overwhelming them. Its ability to navigate turns and straight shots makes it a versatile option as their skills develop.
The Discraft Buzzz, while categorized as a midrange disc, is favored by many beginners as a backhand driver because of its reliable flight and ability to handle various throw styles. Its consistent performance helps players build confidence in their throwing technique.
The Dynamic Discs Sheriff stands out with its combination of glide and slight turn, making it a fantastic choice for beginners seeking to maximize distance while still feeling in control. This disc can handle a variety of throwing conditions, which is beneficial for those just starting out.
The MVP Photon is particularly suitable for beginners due to its lightweight design, permitting easier throws without sacrificing distance. Its understable nature allows for smoother flights, helping newcomers to achieve longer throws without excessive force.
Finally, the Latitude 64 Diamond is ideal for beginner disc golfers looking for a lighter disc that offers great control and distance. Its design encourages a natural throwing motion, making it easier for new players to achieve their desired distance while building their skills on the course.
What Backhand Drivers Work Best for Intermediate Players?
The best backhand drivers for intermediate players provide a balance of distance, stability, and control.
- Discraft Buzzz SS: This disc is known for its excellent glide and control, making it a favorite among intermediate players. Its slight understability allows for gentle hyzer flips and long, straight shots, which can help players shape their throws effectively.
- Innova Destroyer: The Destroyer is a powerful driver that offers a reliable combination of speed and distance, appealing to those looking to improve their game. Intermediate players can benefit from its stability, allowing for predictable flight paths during both headwinds and tailwinds.
- MVP Wave: The Wave is designed for distance, providing a comfortable grip and a stable flight that helps players achieve maximum distance without sacrificing control. Its moderate stability makes it suitable for various throwing styles, accommodating different power levels and techniques.
- Dynamic Discs Trespass: This driver is ideal for players looking to add distance to their backhand throws, thanks to its high-speed rating and stable flight. The Trespass provides a dependable fade at the end of its flight, allowing players to execute long hyzers and controlled distance shots.
- Latitude 64 Diamond: Specifically designed for less powerful throwers, the Diamond offers incredible distance due to its lightweight design and glide. It is a great choice for intermediate players who want a disc that can help them refine their backhand technique while still achieving impressive distance.
Which High-Performance Backhand Drivers Do Advanced Players Prefer?
Advanced players often prefer the following high-performance backhand drivers:
- Innova Destroyer: A well-known choice among advanced players, the Destroyer offers a combination of speed, glide, and stability, making it suitable for both distance and control throws. Its high speed rating allows for long-distance shots, while its stability helps manage wind conditions effectively.
- Discraft Nuke: The Nuke is favored for its exceptional distance capabilities, featuring a high speed and a reliable fade. It has a comfortable grip and aerodynamic design that allows players to achieve maximum distance while maintaining accuracy, making it ideal for advanced throwers seeking to push their limits.
- Dynamic Discs Trespass: This driver strikes a balance between speed and stability, making it versatile for a variety of throwing styles. Advanced players appreciate its ability to handle both power throws and more controlled shots, providing a dependable option across different course layouts.
- Latitude 64 Diamond: The Diamond is designed for maximum distance with a slight turn, making it a favorite for players who can generate significant arm speed. Its lightweight construction allows for easier throws, while still providing excellent glide, making it suitable for long-range drives and open fairways.
- Westside Discs King: The King is known for its speed and distance potential, appealing to advanced players who can utilize its high velocity. Its stability allows for powerful throws without sacrificing control, and it performs well in various wind conditions, enhancing its utility in competitive play.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Selecting a Backhand Driver?
When selecting a backhand driver for disc golf, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can hinder your performance.
- Choosing the Wrong Weight: Selecting a driver that is too heavy or too light can significantly affect your throw. Lighter discs are easier to throw but may lack distance and stability, while heavier discs can provide more control but require more strength to achieve maximum distance.
- Ignoring Disc Stability Ratings: Discs come with stability ratings that indicate how they will behave in the air. Choosing a disc that doesn’t match your throwing style, such as a beginner using an overstable disc, can lead to poor performance and frustration.
- Not Considering Plastic Type: The plastic type of a disc influences its durability and grip. Premium plastics tend to be more durable and offer better grip, while cheaper plastics may wear out faster, affecting the disc’s performance over time.
- Overlooking the Importance of Grip: A comfortable grip is essential for an effective throw. Discs that are too slick or have an uncomfortable feel can negatively impact your release and overall throwing technique.
- Failing to Test Discs: Relying solely on reviews or recommendations without trying the disc can lead to poor choices. It’s crucial to test different drivers to find one that feels right for your throwing style and distance needs.
- Neglecting to Assess Your Skill Level: Selecting a disc that is too advanced for your current skill level can hinder your progress. It’s important to choose a driver that suits your abilities and helps you gradually improve your game.
How Can You Improve Your Backhand Throw with the Right Disc?
- Weight: Choosing a disc with the appropriate weight is crucial for optimizing your backhand throw. Lighter discs are generally easier to throw and can achieve greater distance with less effort, while heavier discs provide more stability and control, making them suitable for powerful throws.
- Stability Rating: Discs come with different stability ratings, which affect how they behave during flight. A stable disc is ideal for beginners as it provides a straight flight path, while overstable discs are preferred by advanced players for reliable hyzer throws and windy conditions.
- Grip and Material: The grip of the disc plays a significant role in your throwing performance. Discs made from rubbery blends offer excellent grip even in wet conditions, while more rigid plastics may provide additional durability but could slip in your hand if not gripped properly.
- Disc Shape and Profile: The shape and profile of a disc influence its aerodynamics and how it cuts through the air. A disc with a flatter profile may be better for distance throws, while more dome-shaped discs can provide a smoother release and better glide, which is advantageous for backhand throws.
- Brand and Model: Different brands and models have unique flight characteristics and user preferences. Testing out various brands can help you find the disc that feels best in your hand and complements your throwing style, as well as providing the necessary distance and accuracy.