Section 2: Equipment
Discs
Players throw a flying disc — a circular plastic implement with a continuously curved upper surface and a peripheral rim. The PDGA Technical Standards govern disc dimensions, weight, and rim configuration; only PDGA-approved discs may be used in PDGA-sanctioned competition. Approved disc parameters include:
- Maximum diameter: approximately 21–22 cm (under PDGA Technical Standards)
- Maximum weight: dependent on diameter, with a sliding scale capped near 200 g
- PDGA-approved disc list is published and updated by the PDGA Technical Standards committee
- Discs are typed by intended flight: distance drivers, fairway drivers, mid-ranges, and putters; classification is functional and does not appear in the rules
Disc Modifications
Players may not use a disc that has been altered in a manner that changes its original PDGA-approved flight characteristics. Discs that are damaged in play (e.g., cracked, gouged, or have a piece broken off) become unsuitable for further competition and must be replaced from the player's bag with a PDGA-approved disc.
Targets
The standard target is a Pole Hole-style assembly: a vertical center pole with chains hanging into a basket. Approved targets meet PDGA Technical Standards for height, basket dimensions, chain configuration, and entry geometry. A disc is "holed out" when it comes to rest fully supported by the basket or by the chains assembly above the basket entry.
Bag and Accessories
- Players carry their own discs; caddies are permitted in most divisions and may carry the bag
- Markers (small mini-marker discs) used to mark the lie are PDGA-approved or improvised within rule
- Towels, water, weather gear, and rangefinders are permitted unless restricted by event-specific rules
- Electronic devices must not provide active distance measurement during play in PDGA-sanctioned majors unless explicitly permitted by the Tournament Director