Do You Need Your Own Discs to Play Disc Golf? Beginner's Guide
Do you need your own discs to play disc golf? Not always, but owning even one disc makes the game much easier. Here is what you need to know before your first round.
Do you need your own discs to play disc golf? Technically, no - but having at least one disc makes the game far easier and more enjoyable. Most disc golf courses are free and open to anyone, but unlike ball golf, there are no rental clubs or carts at the course. If you do not own a disc, you will need to borrow one or buy one before you play.
One Disc Is All You Need to Start
Unlike ball golf where renting clubs is standard, disc golf courses do not provide equipment. The upside is that most courses are free to play. The trade-off is that you need to supply your own discs. A single disc costs around $10 to $15 and is all you need to complete your first round.
Can You Borrow Discs to Play?
If you are playing with a friend or group who already owns discs, borrowing for a casual round is completely fine and common. Most disc golfers carry more discs than they need and are happy to lend extras to a beginner.
Do Disc Golf Courses Offer Rentals?
A small number of facilities attached to recreation centers or resort properties offer disc rentals for $5 to $10. However, this is the exception rather than the rule. The vast majority of public courses assume you will bring your own gear. Check our disc golf course directory to see if a specific location lists rental info.
Types of Discs and What Each Does
| Disc Type | Distance | Best For | Good for Beginners? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Putter | 0-150 ft | Short shots, putting | Yes |
| Mid-Range | 150-300 ft | Approach shots, accuracy | Best first disc |
| Fairway Driver | 250-350 ft | Controlled distance | Some models OK |
| Distance Driver | 350+ ft | Maximum distance | Too advanced |
Beginners should avoid distance drivers. They require significant arm speed and technique; in a beginner's hands they tend to veer sharply left and create frustration rather than distance.
Best Starter Discs
- Innova Roc - The classic beginner mid-range. Flies straight and is very forgiving. Around $12.
- Discraft Buzzz - One of the most popular mid-ranges ever made. Reliable straight flight.
- Dynamic Discs Prime Starter Set - Putter, mid-range, and fairway driver for around $35.
A disc golf starter set from a reputable brand is the fastest way to get everything you need for under $40. For what to carry as your game develops, read our disc golf bag guide.
How Many Discs Does a Beginner Need?
Start with 3 discs: a putter, a mid-range, and a fairway driver. This handles every situation on a typical course. Professional players carry 15 to 25 discs, but most recreational players do fine with 6 to 10.
Finding a Course to Play
Once you have discs, finding a course is easy. Browse disc golf courses in Texas, Florida, and California using our directory. Read our disc golf rules guide before your first round to understand the basics of scoring and etiquette.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need your own discs to play disc golf?
You do not need to own discs to play disc golf, but most courses do not offer rentals. You will need to bring your own or borrow from a friend. A single mid-range disc is enough for a beginner's first round.
Can you rent disc golf discs at the course?
Very few public disc golf courses offer disc rentals. It is best to own at least one disc before you play.
What is the minimum number of discs needed?
You can play an entire round with a single mid-range disc. Most beginners start with a 3-disc set: putter, mid-range, and fairway driver.
How much do disc golf discs cost?
Individual discs cost $10 to $20 each. Beginner starter sets with 3 discs typically cost $25 to $40.
What type of disc should a beginner buy first?
A mid-range disc is the best first purchase. It is forgiving, flies straight, and works for most shots on the course.