Review: The Innova KC Pro Aviar

Are you dead-set on any of the molds in your bag?

And I mean it – like, 110% certain …

In my bag, few molds receive that kind of confidence. Naturally, if you’ve read this blog for any serious amount of time, you’re aware I’m passionate about the Rhyno. And I can’t shut up about the (flat-top) Gator, either. But without a doubt, at the forefront of the pack is the KC Pro Aviar.

I’ve putt with them forever.

The KC Pro Aviar isn’t new to the disc golf scene, by any means. The “Big Bead” Aviar mold was approved by the PDGA way back in 1987 – years before I was born. So no, you’re not likely to get something new from this review – something revolutionary you can’t find elsewhere.

But if one (that’s it) disc golfer can find as much confidence in this disc as I have over the years, it’ll make the hours I put into this article well worth the effort. Because if there’s a SINGLE frisbee in your bag with which you don’t want to be wishy-washy, it’s your putting putter.

Here’s why I’m high on the KC Pro Aviar …

The feel of the KC Pro Aviar

Let’s get right to it:

• New, it’s not a great-feeling putter – it’s smooth and slippery.
• With a good bit of use, though, the shine beats off it, and it gets grippy.

THIS is what a well-worn KC Pro Aviar looks like – and why you should cycle them:

KC Pro plastic is a hard, durable plastic.

Allow me to repeat myself: It’s a hard, durable plastic.

Yes, as a baseline- to middle-tier polymer, it’ll beat for you. But if you prefer a “softie” in the putter slot, steer clear of the KC Pro Aviar – the plastic is its most defining characteristic. In addition to the rigidity, however, there’s a second love-or-hate attribute to the putter mold …

It’s got a bead – a BIG bead.

This is yet another reason I found the KC Pro Aviar and stuck with it. Initially, like many newcomers, I started with the DX Aviar P&A. It didn’t work; I couldn’t dial-in a flutter-free release. With my index finger fanned out along the rim of the KC Pro Aviar, however, I found the bead to serve as a type of launchpad for my putt – my index finger is the final point of contact.

For me, combined with the firm, beaten feel of the disc, it’s the bead that allows for a crisp, clean “pop” out of the hand. I’m fine missing putts: It’s a reality of my disc golf career. But I at least need to feel like the disc is moving when it leaves my hand – not fluttering towards the target.

The KC Pro Aviar delivers on that front …

Over and over (and over) again.

* Note #1: In sub-freezing temperatures, it’s not uncommon for KC Pro Aviars to crack.

* Note #2: If you deal with cold weather, switch to a Yeti Pro Aviar or JK Pro Aviar-X.

The flight of the KC Pro Aviar

You know the drill …

The obligatory flight numbers: 2 (Speed) 3 (Glide) 0 (Turn) 2 (Fade)

I totally get flight numbers often dabble in the subjective, but in this case, I’ve thrown enough of these things to know the KC Pro Aviar is true to ‘em. And I don’t know if it’s the mold, plastic or some magical manufacturing process, but they ALL come out the same – and fly the same, too.

It’s an overstable putter.

I could make this out to be more than it is, but I won’t – we’re not dealing with the engine of an F-16 or anything. Fresh out of the box, it’ll fly straight and fade. After it gets acquainted with the bottom of the bucket, it still flies straight, but with a less aggressive fade at the end of its journey.

Inside the circle, the overstability plays a role, but not enough of one to be all that noticeable. Where it does start to factor into the equation is from distance. Jump putts are a big part of my game. Whenever I review a new putter, my somewhat respectable jump putt is the first thing that goes. My mind (and body) are used to the gentle hook of a KC Pro Aviar – it’s a beautiful thing.

On a backhand line, the built-in stability of the frisbee makes it a great off-the-tee thrower. Heck, the Aviar Driver mold is literally the same mold as the KC Pro Aviar, but in anything other than KC Pro plastic. It’s not a great forehand flier, though. Yes, it’s possible, but don’t be dumb …

There are WAY better options out there.

The aesthetic of the KC Pro Aviar

B.O.R.I.N.G.

“But Lucas, what about after the stock KC Pro Aviar’s recent makeover?”

Nothing’s changed, dear friends …

B.O.R.I.N.G.

With the “KC” standing for “Ken Climo,” the disc automatically comes with some street-cred, I suppose. But unless you nab one at a tournament or pay way too much for an earlier run on eBay, you’re not going to hang it on the wall in your office – truly a blessing for your sorry dating life.

Did the Innova KC Pro Aviar make my bag?

I mean, duh …

I practically opened this with a prayer to The Champ.

Admittedly, this winter, I’ve flirted with the Yeti Pro Aviar – it’s been awesome. The puddle-top is something I didn’t think I’d take to as much as I have. As an added benefit, the mild softness of the Yeti Pro Aviar means it doesn’t pop and roll NEAR as much as its KC Pro amigo …

That’s a big deal.

The fact of the matter remains the same, though …

Rock-hard putter or bust.

The KC Pro Aviar won’t be for everybody, but it’s for me – and for the long haul.

The Final Green Splatter Grade: A+

Have anything to add? Take to Twitter to let us know – we’ll actually (for real) get back to you.

Editor’s Suggestions:

• Disc golf: Why many pros putt with two (or three) putters
• Paul McBeth and Jack Nicklaus: Similar, six-time champions
• Gripe No. 18: Guys messing with the basket after making a putt

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