Understanding and Mastering the Tomahawk and Thumber in Disc Golf

The Thumber and Tomahawk are two overhand throwing shots in disc golf, where the disc is thrown like a baseball, with the disc positioned on its side. These shots, especially the Thumber, are often overlooked and underutilized in a disc golf game. They serve as valuable utility shots that can help players navigate challenging situations when traditional lines are not available. The Tomahawk and Thumber throws are particularly useful for clearing tall obstacles without excessive disc fade to the side, providing an effective solution in difficult scenarios on the course.

In order to understand and master Tomahawk and Thumber shots you will need to learn a few basic things. This article will explore disc golf overhand shots throw path, the technique behind Tomahawk and Thumber shots, and explore the best discs for overhand Tomahawk and Thumber in disc golf.

Understanding The Tomahawk and Thumber Shots

Thumber and Tomahawk shots, also known as hammers, are frequently employed from the tee in disc golf. These shots can significantly impact a player’s game, with the Thumber being relatively more popular. Similar to throwing a baseball with precision, the ideal outcome for a thumber or tomahawk throw is for the disc to finish generally straight in front of the thrower, with a slight tendency to veer left or right. The extent of this variation is influenced by factors such as the disc’s stability and the presence of wind.

Thumber and Tomahawk throws are characterized by a unique “corkscrew” flight pattern, where the disc flips and pans out in the air with the flight plate facing downward as it travels towards the target. In a typical thumber throw, which achieves a full flight, the disc will flip and pan from left to right when viewed from the thrower’s perspective. Conversely, a typical tomahawk throw that achieves a full flight will exhibit a flip and pan from right to left when observed from the thrower’s viewpoint.

Disc Golf Tomahawk and Thumber Throw Path (RHBH Throw)

In overhand disc golf shots, a disc is thrown overhand which then travels straight upward. However, as it falls it will begin to turn upside down and move to one side, flipping right-side up and moving to the other side. The direction it moves will depend on whether you throw a Thumber or Tomahawk. The side-to-side movement of an overhand shot is usually much less than the sideways movement of a normal shot at that same height.

Here is a step-by-step process of how a disc follows a trajectory in overhand shots.

  1. The disc is thrown overhand;
  2. The disc ascends and reaches the optimal height.
  3. From there the disc’s path takes a slight curve and it starts descending.
  4. At this point, the disc flips upside down and moves sideways.
  5. The disc then flips midair, right side up, and reverses its direction.

Understanding Tomahawk and Thumber Technique and Stance

The Tomahawk and Thumber use slightly varying techniques in disc golf to achieve specific flight patterns and overcome obstacles. Here’s an overview of both techniques:

Tomahawk (Overhand Throw):

Grip: Hold the disc with a power grip, similar to a backhand grip, but with the thumb on top of the flight plate.

Stance: Stand sideways to the target with your non-dominant shoulder facing the target.

Throw: Swing your arm across your body and then forcefully throw the disc overhand, using an overhand motion.

Flight: The disc will typically have a steep and fast descending flight path, making it helpful in clearing obstacles or playing in heavily wooded areas.

Thumber (Overhand Throw):

Grip: Hold the disc with a power grip, but with the thumb on the flight plate and fingers underneath.

Stance: Stand sideways to the target, similar to the Tomahawk, with your non-dominant shoulder facing the target.

Throw: Instead of swinging across your body like the Tomahawk, throw the disc directly over your shoulder with a vertical motion.

Flight: The Thumber shot typically has a flatter trajectory compared to the Tomahawk, allowing for longer distances. It can also be effective in situations where a backhand or forehand throw is obstructed.

6 Tips for Mastering the Tomahawk and Thumber Techniques:

Mastering the Tomahawk and Thumber in disc golf needs time and practice; experiment, analyze your throws, and make adjustments based on your observations. Let’s have a look at the top 6 tips to master overhand disc golf shots.

  1. Practice grip and release: Experiment with different grip variations to find what feels comfortable and allows for a clean release. Practice releasing the disc with a smooth and controlled motion to maintain accuracy.
  2. Adjust power and angle: Depending on the desired flight path and distance, you’ll need to adjust the amount of power and the release angle. Experiment with different angles and release points to achieve the desired flight characteristics.
  3. Start with shorter throws: Begin by practicing the Tomahawk and Thumber with shorter distances and gradually increase the power as you become more comfortable and consistent with the technique.
  4. Observe flight characteristics: Pay attention to how the disc behaves in the air when using these techniques. Understand the disc’s tendency to fade or turn to the left or right, and adjust your throws accordingly.
  5. Field practice: Find an open field or practice area where you can safely experiment with these throws without obstacles. This will allow you to focus on form and technique without worrying about accuracy.
  6. Seek advice and watch tutorials: Connect with experienced disc golfers who can provide guidance and tips for improving your Tomahawk and Thumber throws. You can also find instructional videos and tutorials online to learn the techniques of skilled players. Here is an excellent video on technique in the Tomahawk and Thumber.

Top 10 Discs to Master Tomahawk and Thumber in Disc Golf

Whether you need to get over a solid wall of trees or up and out of a tough position, the overhand throw is an essential weapon in any well-rounded player’s arsenal. At the end of this post, we’ll explore some of the most popular discs for both the Tomahawk and Thumber throw.

  1. Innova Firebird: A popular choice for Thumber and Tomahawk, this disc is known for its stability and ability to handle powerful throws.
  2. Discraft Flick: Specifically designed for overhand throws, the Flick offers reliable stability and can handle a variety of release angles.
  3. Dynamic Discs Criminal: A reliable and overstable disc that performs well for Thumbers and Tomahawks, offering a consistent flight path.
  4. Latitude 64 XXX: With its high-speed stability, the XXX is well-suited for powerful overhand throws and can handle the torque of Thumbers and Tomahawks.
  5. Discmania PD2: This disc has a strong fade and overstable flight, making it a popular choice for players seeking control and distance with their Thumber or Tomahawk shots.
  6. MVP Resistor: Designed for overhand shots, the Resistor offers predictable and reliable flight characteristics, making it a favorite for both Thumbers and Tomahawks.
  7. Prodigy X1: Known for its extreme overstability, the X1 is a go-to disc for players who require maximum control and distance on their overhand shots.
  8. Westside Discs Ahti: With its overstable flight, the Ahti provides dependable stability and control, making it a reliable option for Thumber and Tomahawk throws.
  9. Innova Monster: The Monster is a heavily overstable disc that excels in strong headwinds and is well-suited for powerful Thumber or Tomahawk shots.
  10. Discraft Drone: A consistent and overstable mid-range disc, the Drone is often favored by players looking for precision and reliability in their overhand throws.

Understanding and mastering the Tomahawk and Thumber throws in disc golf requires practice, experimentation, and understanding of the flight characteristics of different discs. However, for a better technique, you need to take care of certain aspects such as grip and release, adjusting power and angle, observing flight characteristics, seeking guidance, choosing the right type of disc, and doing lots and lots of practice.

You can experiment with grip variations to find what feels comfortable, allowing for a clean release. Practice releasing the disc with a smooth and controlled motion by adjusting power and angle. Adapt the amount of power and the release angle based on the desired flight path and distance. Experiment with different angles and release points to achieve the desired flight characteristics.

Simultaneously, as a player, you need to pay attention to how the disc behaves in the air when you are using one of these techniques. You should understand the disc’s tendency to flip, pan, or fade based on factors like stability, wind, and release angle. Begin practicing the Tomahawk and Thumber with shorter distances and gradually increase the power as you become more comfortable and consistent with the technique. You can also connect with experienced disc golfers or find instructional videos and tutorials online to learn from the techniques of skilled players.

And finally, find an open field or practice area where you can safely experiment with these throws without obstacles. This will allow you to focus on form and technique without worrying about accuracy.

Remember, every player has a unique style and preferences, so it’s essential to find what works best for you. With dedicated practice and a willingness to learn from others, you can enhance your skills and become proficient in executing the Tomahawk and Thumber shots in disc golf.

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