Hello, fellow disc golf enthusiasts! Today, I’ll give my two cents on a disc that’s often under the radar and underrated. Stick around for this in-depth Discraft Crank review and find out if it’s the disc you’ve been missing in your golf bag.
As a seasoned disc golf player with 13+ years of experience, I’ve had the opportunity to use a vast array of discs. The sheer volume and variety have helped me understand which discs work best under different circumstances.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, the subtleties and nuances of each disc make all the difference. Let’s dive in and see what it brings to your game!
Discover Your Max Distance Range
- Speed: 13
- Glide: 5
- Turn: -2
- Fade: 2
These numbers suggest a fairly speedy disc with decent glide and a slight turn and fade. In practice, this means the Crank is fast off the tee, provides good distance with the right arm speed, and tends to curve slightly to the right before finishing back to the left, especially when using right-hand backhand (RHBH), which is my favored style of play.
The -2 turn rating is one factor that made this so enjoyable. It’s enough of a turn to provide interesting flight paths but not so much that it becomes unmanageable. The two fades at the flight’s end ensure the disc returns reliably, reducing the chances of it veering off too far to the right.
This combination means it is predictable and versatile in its flight, capable of impressive distance shots while maintaining excellent control. It has stability in spades, which is always desirable in any disc. Overall, this disc displays a well-rounded combination of characteristics that makes me reach for it repeatedly on the course.
The Perfect Grip For A Controllable Plastic
- Diameter: 21.20 cm
- Height: 1.50 cm
- Rim Depth: 1.10 cm
- Rim Width: 2.30 cm
The Crank claims a diameter of 21.20 cm, a standard size for many distance drivers. It has a modest height of 1.50 cm, equating to a pretty flat top disc. Due to its flat top, it feels very comfortable in my hand, especially when lining up those power throws.
Its depth is at 1.10 cm. Despite the shallow rim, I didn’t face any gripping issues, which is a plus for players with smaller hands. It remains a delight to hold.
The width, though, at a robust 2.30 cm, signifies that it falls into the ‘faster’ disc category. This might take a bit for novices to get used to, but seasoned pros will appreciate the extra quickness and distance it provides.
This has a standard set of dimensions for a high-speed driver disc. However, its specific proportions add up to a fantastic grip and inspiring feel that many disc golfers will undoubtedly appreciate.
This is also available in premium molds like Big Z and Z Lite. The Discraft Z Crank is primarily well-known for evolving into a super straight driver after beating.
Not For Disc Golf Beginners
The Discraft Crank, a cross between the Nuke and the Nuke SS, is built for those with a robust arm speed. It’s intended primarily for players seeking that long, controlled drive or those aiming to step up their game.
From my experience and perusing other players’ reviews, this has gained a bit of a reputation for being somewhat underrated. One reviewer pointed out that their version in ESP plastic evolved from a straight flyer to a dependable tool for long turnovers, highlighting its versatility.
The feedback on its feel-in-hand has been overwhelmingly positive, lauding features such as the rim, which is both wide and comfortable. It seems the disc has a way of inviting you to use it.
However, this might not be the best option for new players. Although it has been vouched for as controllable for both amateurs and pros, this disc leans more toward the advanced side due to its quickness and stability. As one review hinted, novices may have difficulty unleashing their full potential – you need to push the 400-ft barrier to fully leverage what it offers.
On the other hand, if you’re an intermediate to advanced player with a decent arm speed, this is an excellent disc to add serious distance to your game. It’s a disc that you can rely on in many scenarios and conditions, capable of repeated feats of long, controllable distance. It’s a disc that can, and undoubtedly will, elevate your game to the next level.
Hit The Speed With This Distance Driver
The Crank is primarily a distance driver with its fantastic mix of stability, quickness, and user-friendly dimensions. This disc shines when you aim for longer drives on an open course where it can flex its high-speed capabilities. Fans of Discraft’s distance drivers and those looking to boost their range will find a valuable ally.
Besides long drives, it can be employed effectively for a variety of scenarios on the disc golf course:
S-Shots
It can carve out beautiful S-shots using a slight turn and reliable fade. I once managed to skirt around a grove of trees using an S-Shot with this disc, adding valuable feet to the distance I could cover.
Anhyzers
It can handle a well-thrown anhyzer and hold the line, as attested by several users. I remember throwing a sweeping anhyzer with it during a windy round; I was pleased to see the disc arch gracefully and land near the target.
Hyzer Flips
This can serve impressive hyzer flips for those with a bigger arm. I recall tossing a hyzer that flipped up nicely because of its inherent stability and straightened out, achieving a delightful distance.
Similar Discs
Axiom Mayhem
The Axiom Mayhem is another distance driver with real gusto. Like the Crank, it has a balance of speed and stability, making it an excellent choice for extended throws.
Dynamic Discs Sheriff
The Sheriff from Dynamic Discs falls into similar territory. It offers considerable quickness and a predictable flight path and can match the Crank in many respects. I’ve found the Sheriff holds an edge when the wind picks up, but I prefer the latter for its reliable turn and fade for calm weather.
Innova Shryke
Lastly, the Innova Shryke is another similar disc designed for long tossing. I found it slightly less stable, making it potentially more accessible for those with intermediate arm speed. Yet, when it comes down to a straight choice, the Crank remains my go-to disc.
Comparing similar discs is always helpful to course-correct expectations and understanding different flight patterns. Although each disc has unique characteristics, the Crank’s versatility, quickness, and stability are high on my list of favorite distance drivers.
Discraft Crank Review: Final Thoughts
The Discraft Crank is an excellent choice for intermediate to advanced disc golfers searching for a high-speed distance driver that balances power, stability, and control. Its flight characteristics and unique design might not be the best fit for absolute beginners, yet for those who can leverage its quickness and stability; it will be an indispensable part of their disc golf bag.
Pros:
- Offers great velocity and distance
- Provides consistent, manageable turn and fade
- Comfortable grip and easy release due to well-thought-out design
- Versatility for a range of shot types
Cons:
- Could be too fast for beginners or players with slower arms
- Requires experience or higher throwing power to leverage its potential fully