What Is an Overhand Throw and When Should You Use It?

An overhand throw is a specialty shot thrown from above the head, where the disc leaves the hand in a vertical position and flips upside down during flight. In Finland, this shot is often called an “upsi”, from the English words upside down, because the disc glides most of the way with the bottom side facing up. It is mainly used when a tall obstacle cannot be played around or under. An overhand is not an everyday stock shot, but a situational tool that opens up lines where backhand and forehand throws do not work.

How do you throw an overhand shot?

An overhand is thrown from above the head with a nearly vertical release, using a motion similar to throwing a ball or javelin. The disc is held upright or slightly tilted, and it flips upside down in the air. The grip determines which direction the disc finishes, so there are two established overhand techniques.

Tomahawk

In a tomahawk grip, the index finger sits underneath the disc while the other fingers grip the rim. The grip resembles holding an axe handle, which is where the English name comes from. For many players, the tomahawk is the first overhand grip they learn because it often feels more natural for backhand-dominant players.

Thumber

In a thumber, the thumb is placed underneath the disc and the other fingers rest on top. The flight finishes in the opposite direction compared to a tomahawk. The grip choice therefore depends on which side you want the disc to land on behind the obstacle.

When should you use an overhand throw?

An overhand throw is used when there is a tall obstacle in the way that cannot be played around or under. A typical situation is thick brush or low-hanging branches, where the disc needs to be sent steeply upward and dropped on the other side. Because an overhand starts almost straight upward, it fits into gaps that a horizontally flying backhand or forehand cannot reach.

Overhands are also seen on straight fairways and in distance contests. A well-executed overhand can fly on a very straight line and usually does not skip far forward after hitting the ground, which makes it predictable in precise situations.

Still, the overhand should be treated as a situational option. It puts more stress on the wrist and shoulder than standard throws, and a failed overhand can drop short or turn the wrong way. Core techniques such as the backhand throw are worth learning before focusing on overhands.

Which disc works best for an overhand throw?

An overstable disc is usually the best choice for overhand throws, because it is easier to throw hard in a vertical position. An overstable disc can handle the powerful overhand motion without turning uncontrollably and tends to finish more predictably. It is worth checking the disc’s flight numbers before choosing one, because a high fade rating indicates a strong finishing movement. A heavier and more durable disc also handles tree hits and hard ground impacts better, which are common with overhand shots.

The right overstable disc makes overhand throws much more predictable. Compare suitable options from the disc golf disc selection at DiscKing.eu.