Darts Guide
Type of dart (steel tip, soft tip, magnetic)
There are three main types to choose from - steel tip, soft tip, and magnetic darts.
Steel tip darts are most commonly used for traditional board games like 01 games and cricket. They feature a sharp, narrow steel point that penetrates the bristle dartboard effectively. Some popular steel tip dart options include the Winmau Blade 5 and the Dart World Piranha Razor.
Soft tip darts, on the other hand, are designed for electronic and plastic dartboards. These darts have a flexible, rounded plastic tip that helps prevent damage to the board. They are commonly used in bars, clubs, and at home for casual play. Notable soft tip dart options include the Viper Diamond 90% Tungsten and the Cosmo Darts Fit Flight Soft Tip.
Lastly, magnetic darts are an excellent choice for beginners or young children due to their safety features. These darts have a flat, magnetic end that adheres to magnetic dartboards. They are a perfect option for introducing the game to kids or for playing in spaces where it's not possible to hang a traditional dartboard. Some examples of magnetic dart sets are the Doinkit Darts Magnetic Dart Board Set and the Sankeybao Magnetic Dart Board Set.
Whether you prefer traditional steel tip darts, soft tip darts for electronic boards, or magnetic darts for safety and versatility, choosing the type of dart that suits your needs will greatly enhance your dart playing experience.
Weight of the dart
The weight of the dart can greatly impact the accuracy and control of your throws. Lighter darts, such as the CUESOUL Tungsten Steel Tip Darts, ranging from 20 to 24 grams, are ideal for players who prefer a fast and aggressive throwing style, as they allow for quick and swift throws. On the other hand, if you have a slower and more deliberate throwing style, a heavier dart like the WINMAU Diamond Plus Steel Tip Darts ranging from 26 to 30 grams might provide better balance and stability during your throws. Ultimately, the weight of the dart should be chosen based on your personal preferences and comfort level when throwing.
Barrel material (brass, tungsten, nickel-silver)
The barrel material not only affects the look and feel of the dart, but also its durability and weight distribution. There are three common barrel materials available on the market: brass, tungsten, and nickel-silver.
Brass barrels are a popular choice for beginners or casual players due to their affordability. Brass offers a good grip and control, making it easier to throw accurately. One excellent example of brass darts is the Viper Bobcat Steel Tip Darts, which feature a brass barrel construction and come in various weights to suit different playing styles.
Tungsten barrels are known for their high density, which allows for a slimmer profile and more accurate grouping. The higher the tungsten percentage, the slimmer and denser the barrel becomes. A recommended option with a high tungsten content is the Winmau Assault Steel Tip Darts, featuring a 90% tungsten barrel providing superb balance and control for players seeking precision.
Nickel-silver barrels are a great middle-ground option, offering a balance between affordability and performance. They provide a comfortable grip with a slightly weighted feel. An example is the Harrows Voodoo Steel Tip Darts, which feature a nickel-silver barrel and axial tech paragon grips for superior grip control and accuracy.
The barrel material plays a crucial role in darts selection. Brass is suitable for beginners, tungsten offers precision for advanced players, and nickel-silver provides a middle ground for those seeking a balance between price and performance.
Grip style (smooth, knurled, ringed)
Different grip styles offer varying levels of control and consistency, so it's essential to find one that matches your preference and throwing style.
One option for players who prefer a smooth grip style is the Shot Taker Smooth V2
darts. These darts have a sleek, barrel design with a high-quality smooth coating, allowing for a fluid release and improved accuracy. Another option is the Harrows Supergrip darts, featuring precision-cut rings on the barrel that provide solid grip without compromising on comfort. These knurled grip darts are a great choice for players seeking enhanced confidence and control.
For players who desire maximum grip and texture, the Winmau Simon Whitlock darts offer a ringed grip style. These darts feature an intricately-designed barrel with multiple rings, ensuring a firm and consistent hold. Additionally, Target Diamond Pro
darts provide an exceptional level of grip with diamond-cut thin grooves along the barrel, resulting in increased accuracy during each throw.
These are just a few examples of grips available in the market, showcasing the variety of options available to players. Remember to consider your personal preferences and throw style when selecting darts with different grip styles.
Flight shape (standard, slim, kite, pear)
The flight shape determines the dart's stability and trajectory while in the air. There are several types of flight shapes available, including standard, slim, kite, and pear.
Standard flights are the most commonly used flights and offer a good balance of stability and control. They allow for accurate throws and are suitable for players of all skill levels. Examples of darts with standard flights include the Winmau Blade 5 Dual Core Dart Set and the Target Phil Taylor Power 8Zero Black 80% Tungsten Dart Set.
Slim flights, on the other hand, reduce the drag and provide a faster and more streamlined trajectory. These flights are great for players who prefer a faster game and lighter darts. Examples of darts with slim flights include the Harrows Retina-X Dart Set and the Unicorn Core XL T95 95% Tungsten Dart Set.
Kite flights have a unique shape that helps reduce drag and stabilize the dart in flight. They provide good accuracy and control, making them suitable for players who aim for precision. The Red Dragon Tungsten World Champion Soft Tip Darts and the Viper Sure Grip Soft Tip Darts are examples of darts with kite flights.
Lastly, pear-shaped flights offer enhanced stabilization and control. They provide a more consistent and predictable flight, making them ideal for players with a slower throw. The Masterdart Tornado 24 Gram Steel Tip Darts and the Voks Dead Center Steel Tip Darts are examples of darts with pear flights.
Flight design (solid color, patterned, personalized)
The flight is the fin-shaped part of the dart that helps stabilize its flight trajectory. The flight design plays a significant role in the dart's accuracy and consistency. There are three main types of flight designs available on the market: solid color, patterned, and personalized.
Solid color flights are a popular choice for many darts enthusiasts due to their simplicity and versatility. They come in a wide range of colors, allowing players to match their flights with their own personal style. One example of solid color flights is the Target Pro Ultra Dart Flights. These flights are made of durable material and are available in various colors, including black, white, and vibrant hues like red and blue.
Patterned flights add a touch of uniqueness to your darts with their intricate designs and artwork. They often feature captivating patterns that serve as a visual aid during gameplay. One excellent example of patterned flights is the Harrows I.C.E. Pro Darts Flights. These flights showcase cool and eye-catching designs, including geometrical patterns and stunning visual effects.
For those looking to truly personalize their darts, there are personalized flights available. These flights allow players to customize their darts with their own unique graphics, logos, or text. A top-notch example of personalized flights is the Bulls Custom Dart Flights. These flights offer full customization options, allowing players to upload their own designs, choose their preferred shape and size, and even add text for that extra personal touch.
When choosing your darts, considering flight design is important as it can affect your gameplay experience and also add a personal touch to your equipment. Solid color flights like the Target Pro Ultra Dart Flights are versatile and stylish. Patterned flights such as the Harrows I.C.E. Pro Darts Flights add visual appeal to your darts. And if you want to express your personal style, personalized flights like the Bulls Custom Dart Flights provide full customization options. Ultimately, the choice depends on your preferences and playing style.
Shaft length
When choosing the best and right darts, one of the key factors to consider is the shaft length. The length of the dart's shaft affects its stability and flight trajectory in the air. Most darts come with adjustable shafts that can vary in length from short to medium to long.
For beginners or those who prefer a consistent flight, short shafts are recommended. These provide greater stability and reduced wobbling during flight. The Harrows Supergrip Shafts are a great option, with a length of 35mm. They feature a precision-engineered ring grip that helps enhance the grip on the shaft, ensuring better control and accuracy.
Intermediate players may prefer medium shafts which offer a balance of stability and flexibility. The Target Pro Grip Shafts
with a length of 48mm are a popular choice. They feature high-strength and durable nylon material for long-lasting use and allow for easy replacement of flights using an accessible nylon locking system.
For experienced players looking for enhanced flexibility and reduced deflection, long shafts are ideal. The Unicorn Gripper 4 Mirage Shafts with an extended length of 53mm are highly recommended. These innovative shafts are made from advanced polymer material and utilize a unique grip mechanism for secure flight attachment.
By carefully considering the shaft length, players can optimize their dart performance and improve their accuracy on the board.
Shaft material (plastic, aluminum, carbon fiber)
There are several types of shaft materials to choose from, including plastic, aluminum, and carbon fiber.
Plastic shafts are a popular choice for beginners and casual players. They are lightweight and durable, making them easy to manage and resistant to breakage. Some examples of plastic shafts on the market include the Viper Tufflex III 2BA Dart Shafts
and the CUESOUL Darts Shafts.
Aluminum shafts are a favorite among intermediate and advanced players for their durability and ability to maintain a consistent flight path. They are also available in various shapes, including standard or spinning, allowing players to have options that suit their throwing style. Notable aluminum shaft products include the AmazonBasics Aluminum Dart Shafts
and the Ignat Games Aluminum Dart Shafts.
For those seeking premium shafts with enhanced performance, carbon fiber shafts are the top choice. They are incredibly lightweight, reducing the overall weight of the dart, and have excellent strength and durability. Carbon fiber shafts are designed to decrease deflection, providing a more accurate flight for the dart. A couple of examples of carbon fiber shafts with impressive specifications are the Cosmo Fit Carbon Dart Shafts and the L-Style Carbon Silent Dart Shafts.
The choice of shaft material depends on individual preferences, skill level, and playing style. It is essential to consider factors such as weight, durability, and performance to select the best shaft material that suits your needs.
Shaft design (solid color, transparent, spinning)
Shafts come in various styles, each offering unique advantages.
Solid color shafts provide players with a traditional and sleek look. They are typically made from durable nylon materials that offer stability and consistency. For example, Harrows Supergrip Shafts offer a solid color design and come in a range of lengths and sizes.
On the other hand, transparent shafts provide a modern and visually appealing look. These shafts are usually made from high-quality polymers or robust materials such as carbon, which provide extra strength and durability. A great example of transparent shafts is the Target Pro Grip Vision Shafts
, which come in different colors and lengths.
For those looking to enhance their throwing technique, spinning shafts are a popular choice. These shafts allow the dart to rotate during flight, which helps to minimize bounce outs and improve accuracy. The Red Dragon Freestyle Shafts
are a fantastic option for players seeking spinning shafts, as they provide complete 360-degree rotation.
In conclusion, when choosing your darts, the shaft design is a crucial consideration. Solid color shafts, like the Harrows Supergrip Shafts, provide a classic appearance. Transparent shafts, such as the Target Pro Grip Vision Shafts
, offer a modern and stylish look. And for improved performance, spinning shafts like the Red Dragon Freestyle Shafts
allow for better accuracy. Consider your personal preferences and playing style when making your decision.
Durability
The durability of darts determines their lifespan and how well they withstand frequent use and impact. Look for darts that are made from high-quality materials such as tungsten or brass, as they offer excellent durability. For instance, the Winmau Blade 5 Bristle Dartboard is highly durable with a staple-free spider and wiring system that reduces bounce-outs. These features ensure extended play capabilities and make it a popular choice among serious dart players. Another durable option is the Viper Diamond 90% Tungsten Soft Tip Darts, which boasts a sleek design and superior strength due to its high tungsten content. These darts are resistant to wear and tear, offering long-lasting performance.
Additionally, some other dart segments to consider are:
Entry-level darts: These darts are suitable for beginner players who are new to the game. A great example is the IgnatGames Professional Darts Set, designed with nickel silver barrels known for their durability and longevity.
Intermediate or recreational darts: These darts cater to players who want a balance between durability and affordability. One such option is the CUESOUL Professional Steel Tip Darts Set, constructed from brass and featuring an aluminum shaft, providing a durable yet cost-effective choice.
By prioritizing durability, you can ensure that your darts will withstand countless throws and provide optimal performance over an extended period of play.
Accuracy
Opting for a set of darts that offers high accuracy can greatly enhance your overall game. Look for darts with slim and streamlined barrels, as they allow for precise throwing and better grouping of shots. For example, the Winmau Simon Whitlock darts feature a slimline parallel barrel design, enabling optimal accuracy. Additionally, darts with a tightly packed grip ensure a consistent release and greater stability, such as the Target Dave Chisnall darts, which boast a dual-atomized grip texture for enhanced control during flight. Additionally, consider shaft length as it can influence the stability and trajectory of your throws. For instance, the Harrows Wolfram Infinity darts come with an extra-long shaft that helps maintain accuracy by preventing dart wobble mid-flight due to their lengthier stability. Remember, accuracy is key, and selecting darts designed with features that prioritize precise throwing will significantly improve your performance on the oche.
Balance
The balance of a dart refers to the distribution of its weight throughout the barrel. Different players have their preferences when it comes to balance, some prefer a front-loaded dart with more weight at the tip, while others prefer a rear-loaded dart with more weight towards the back.
One example of a front-loaded dart is the Harrows Wolfram Infinity which has a density of 97% tungsten and features a long and slim design towards the front of the barrel. This design provides a higher concentration of weight towards the tip, allowing for improved accuracy and tighter grouping. On the other hand, the Winmau Simon Whitlock Black Brass dart offers a rear-loaded balance with its weight concentrated towards the back. Constructed from high-quality brass, these darts provide superior control and stability during the throw.
It's worth mentioning that the market offers darts with a range of balance options, including those that are center-balanced for more even weight distribution. Some other products that correspond to these different balance preferences include the Target Darts Carrera Azzurri Cortex
with its balanced grip and front-loaded design, and the Unicorn Core XL T90 known for its center-balanced construction which suits players seeking a consistent weight spread. When selecting the best darts for your game, take into account your personal throwing style and experiment with different balance options to find the perfect fit.
Throw consistency
Throw consistency refers to how well a dart flies through the air and lands consistently in the intended target. It is influenced by various factors, such as the weight, shape, and balance of the dart.
For players seeking exceptional throw consistency, one option to consider is the Winmau Blade 5 Bristle Dartboard. This dartboard features reduced blade wire angle and increased bed density, providing a sharper target area and reducing bounce-outs. Another product to consider is the Target Phil Taylor Power 9 Five Gen 7 Darts. These darts are designed with a distinctive grip pattern and excellent balance, offering excellent consistency when thrown. Additionally, the Harrows Supergrip Fusion Darts are a great choice, with their fusion grip technology providing superior control and enhancing tight grouping.
Easy to grip
An easy grip is essential for maintaining control and accuracy while throwing. Look for darts with a textured or knurled barrel that provides a secure grip. For example, the CUESOUL Tungsten Steel Tip Darts have a knurled and grooved design on the barrel, ensuring a firm grip and steady release. Another option is the CC-Exquisite Professional Steel Tip Darts, which feature a strategically placed diamond-shaped etching on the barrel for a superior grip.
You can also find a variety of darts on the market that cater to different grip preferences. For players who prefer a smoother grip, the Viper Blackout Soft Tip Darts
with a coated brass barrel might be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavily textured grip, check out the Shot! Darts 801 Dart Set with its front-loaded and shark fin-shaped barrel for maximum control.
Aerodynamic flight
First and foremost, the shape of the darts' flight must minimize air resistance and provide a steady trajectory. For those looking for high-quality options, the Winmau Blade 5 Dartboard with its ultimate tensile strength and enhanced finer wiring system offers superb aerodynamic flight. Another option is the Target Pro Grip Shafts
which provide optimum plane alignment and reduced deflection due to their precision-engineered design. Players looking for affordability without compromising on aerodynamics can consider the Viper Sure Grip Soft Tip Darts, which feature strategically placed grooves for excellent grip and stability during flight. Overall, focusing on darts that offer superior aerodynamic flight ensures a more accurate and consistent throwing experience.
Replacement parts availability
It ensures that you can easily find and replace different parts of the darts, such as flights, shafts, and tips, should they wear out or break. This not only saves you money in the long run but also allows you to customize your darts to suit your playing style. For example, the Harrows Supergrip Fusion Stems and Winmau Rhino Standard Flights
are replacement parts that are widely available on the market. Additionally, brands such as Target Darts
and Unicorn Darts offer a wide range of replacement parts for their darts, ensuring easy accessibility and compatibility with their respective dart models.
Flight durability
The flight refers to the small fins at the back of the dart that stabilize it during flight. These flights are typically made from materials such as nylon or plastic, and their durability affects the lifespan of your darts. It is important to choose darts with durable flights to ensure they last longer and withstand regular use.
Some darts that are known for their flight durability include the Viper Blitz 95% Tungsten Soft Tip Darts, which have durable dimpled flights that improve flight characteristics and reduce drag. Another option is the Red Dragon Firebird Flite Dart Set, which features hard-wearing 100 micron flights that provide excellent durability and flight stability. For players who prefer steel tip darts, the Target Darts Carrera Azzurri Cortex Steel Tip Darts
are worth considering as they come with target pro grip flights that offer a higher level of durability. Ultimately, choosing darts with durable flights will ensure they last longer, giving you more value for your money.
Playability in different game variations (501, cricket, etc.)
In the game of 501, players aim to reach exactly zero points by deducting their scores from a starting total of 501. For this game, darts with lighter barrels, like the Winmau Crisis darts, can be a great choice as they allow for better accuracy and precision. On the other hand, cricket is a widely popular game in which the aim is to close certain numbers on the dartboard and score points. For cricket, darts with heavier barrels, like the TARGET Pro Grip Revolution darts
, offer better stability and control, giving players an advantage in hitting their targets.
There are various product segments available in the market that cater to different playability preferences. For players focused on precision and accuracy in 501, options like the Harrows Precision Max darts and the Red Dragon Delta darts provide slim barrels that allow for tighter groupings and consistent throws. For those looking for stability and control in cricket, products like the One80 Gladiator 3 darts and the Shot! Bandit Plus darts offer heavier barrels with knurled grip for enhanced control over throw trajectory. Consider your preferred game variation and personal playstyle when selecting the right darts for you.
Dartboard compatibility (steel tip vs. soft tip)
There are two main types of dartboard options: steel tip and soft tip. Steel tip darts are designed for use with bristle dartboards, which are the traditional and classic choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike. On the other hand, soft tip darts are intended for electronic dartboards, which have become increasingly popular for their automated scoring system and wide range of game options.
For players looking for high-quality steel tip darts, the Viper Blitz 95% Tungsten Steel Tip Darts is an excellent choice. Made from 95% tungsten alloy, these darts offer durability and excellent accuracy. They also come with a slim profile and strategically placed knurling, providing a comfortable grip and precision control.
When it comes to soft tip darts, the Viper Astro 80% Tungsten Soft Tip Darts is a top recommendation. These darts feature an 80% tungsten alloy barrel and rubber grip for added control and stability. The aerodynamic designs and engraved rings on the barrel enhance accurate flight, allowing players to consistently hit the target on electronic dartboards.
In summary, it is essential to consider the dartboard compatibility when choosing darts. For bristle dartboards, steel tip darts like the Viper Blitz 95% Tungsten Steel Tip Darts are recommended, while soft tip darts such as the Viper Astro 80% Tungsten Soft Tip Darts are a great choice for electronic dartboards.
Dartboard mounting options
There are three main types to choose from: bristle dartboard, electronic dartboard, and magnetic dartboard. Bristle dartboards are made from compressed sisal fibers with high tensile strength, offering durability and self-healing properties. One notable option is the Winmau Blade 5 Bristle Dartboard, known for its triangular wires, razor-thin wire technology, and increased target area.
Alternatively, electronic dartboards use microchips to track scores and offer various game options. A popular choice is the Arachnid Cricket Pro 800 Electronic Dartboard, featuring a regulation-sized target area, LED scoring displays, and a voice prompt for player guidance. Lastly, magnetic dartboards are a safer option, as the darts have flat tips and are attracted to the magnetic board rather than being thrown with force. A recommendation within this category is the Doinkit Darts Magnetic Dartboard, which guarantees strong neodymium magnets for accurate and enjoyable dart play. Remember to select the dartboard mounting option that suits your level of play and preferences.
Noise reduction
The noise produced when a dart hits the target can vary depending on the materials used in the construction of the dart. If noise reduction is a priority for you, consider darts that are designed to minimize the sound upon impact.
One example of such darts is the Viper Blitz Soft Tip Darts. These darts feature a slim barrel design made from 95% tungsten, known for its high-density properties that help reduce noise. The darts also come with 2BA aluminum shafts that provide stability and contribute to minimizing noise upon hitting the board.
Another consideration is the Black Widow Soft Tip Darts by LaserDarts. These darts have a unique "anodized aluminum" plated slip-resistant grip and are specifically designed with noise reduction in mind. The anodized aluminum coating not only adds a stylish look but also helps dampen noise when the dart strikes the dartboard.
For those looking for affordable options in their noise-reducing darts, consider the Viper Sure Grip Soft Tip Darts. These darts feature barrels made from 80% Tungsten alloy, providing durability and noise reduction capabilities. The knurled bands and heavy knurling along the barrel help to improve control and stability while also minimizing sound when scoring those bullseyes.
Additionally, the Viper Diamond 90% Tungsten Soft Tip Darts offer superior noise reduction by utilizing a diamond-cut black coating that absorbs sound upon impact. The diamond-cut design also contributes to a comfortable and secure grip. These darts feature 2BA Tufflex tips for durability while still delivering precision throws with reduced noise levels.
When exploring the market for noise-reducing darts, it's worth noting that different products cater to individual preferences and playing styles. These examples provide a range of options for those seeking quieter darts, allowing players to focus on their game while keeping noise disturbance to a minimum.
Safety features (rounded tips for soft tip darts)
Soft tip darts typically have rounded tips that are designed to minimize the risk of injury or damage to the dartboard and surrounding area. One example of a quality soft tip dart with rounded tips is the Viper Sure Grip Soft Tip Darts. These darts feature a 2BA size barrel made of high-quality nickel silver, ensuring durability and precision. Another option to consider is the CUESOUL Tungsten Soft Tip Darts Set, which is made of 80% tungsten, making them slimmer and more accurate. Both sets come with different weights and designs, allowing you to find the right fit for your playing style.
For those looking for even more safety features, there are safety tip darts available in the market, which are designed specifically for children or beginners. These darts have extremely soft tips that reduce the risk of injury even further, making them perfect for family gatherings or casual play. One example of such darts is the DESCOBERT Soft Tip Safety Darts Set for Kids and Beginners. These darts have plastic tips that soften upon impact without sacrificing accuracy. Another option is the Toydaloo Safety Soft Darts Set, which includes colorful darts made with non-toxic materials. These safety darts are a great choice for introducing the game to young players or practicing a dart game without worrying about any potential accidents.
Versatility (suitable for beginners, professionals, practice)
Whether you are a beginner, professional player, or simply looking for darts for practice, having darts that can adapt to different skill levels and game settings can greatly enhance your experience.
One example of a versatile dart suitable for beginners, professionals, and practice is the Winmau Blade 5 Dual Core Bristle Dartboard. This premium quality dartboard offers a thinner wiring system, maximizing scoring potential and creating a larger scoring area. The raised tripod design and non-reflective number ring ensure better focus and visibility, making it perfect for players of all skill levels.
Another option is the Harrows Predator R2 Soft Tip Darts. These darts feature a slimline barrel design for tighter groupings, making them a fantastic choice for professionals aiming for precision. The softer tip allows for added safety during practice sessions, making it beginner-friendly as well. The fusion of advanced design and versatile features makes these darts suitable for a variety of players and game settings.
There are various other dart options available in the market that offer versatility for beginners, professionals, and practice. Breaking them down into groups, we have the Target Darts Carrera Azzurri series, which offers a selection of different barrel shapes and weights to cater to players of different skill levels. For practice, the Unicorn Gary Anderson Phase 3 SlikStik dart flight and Red Dragon Razor Edge Spectron dart barrels offer durability and consistency for repetitive throws.
Remember, versatility in darts ensures they can be used across different settings and by various player abilities, allowing you to get the most out of your dart game.
Ideal for outdoor or indoor use
Outdoor darts need to be more durable and resistant to weather conditions, such as wind and rain, while indoor darts should be designed for precise and controlled throws.
For outdoor use, a great option is the Viper by GLD Products Sure Grip Soft Tip Darts. These darts are made with a durable nylon material that can withstand outdoor elements. They also have a textured Sure Grip surface that enhances grip and control, making them a great choice for outdoor play. Another option for outdoor use is the Arachnid Plastic Soft Tip Darts, which are specifically designed for outdoor play and have a durable one-piece molded design.
For indoor use, the Viper Elite Brass Soft Tip Darts are a popular choice. These darts are made from high-quality brass barrels that provide excellent balance and control for precise throws. They feature a knurled grip design that offers a comfortable and secure grip for indoor play. Another great option for indoor use is the CUESOUL Tungsten Soft Tip Darts
, which are made with a tungsten barrel material, known for its high-density and slim profile. Tungsten darts allow for tighter grouping and higher scoring potential.
Ergonomic design
An ergonomic design ensures that the dart feels comfortable and fits well in your hand, allowing for enhanced control and accuracy in your throwing technique. Look for darts that have a well-balanced weight distribution, grip style, and shape that suits your personal preference. For example, the WINMAU Steve Beaton Stainless Steel Darts feature a sleek, ergonomic design with a knurled grip pattern that provides a secure hold for precise throws. Another excellent option is the TARGET Rob Cross Black Pixel Grip Darts, which have an ergonomic barrel design with a unique grip that ensures a consistent and comfortable grip throughout your throwing sessions. These darts also offer a variety of barrel weights to choose from, allowing you to find the perfect balance for your throwing style. Investing in darts with an ergonomic design is essential for optimal performance and enjoyment of the game.
Customizability (able to switch out barrels, flights, shafts)
Being able to switch out different components such as barrels, flights, and shafts allows you to tailor the dart to your specific needs, improving your accuracy and consistency.
One popular brand that offers excellent customizability is Winmau. Their range of darts includes various options for barrels, flights, and shafts, allowing you to mix and match to suit your preferences. For barrel choice, you can opt for the Pulsar series which offers a sleek and precise pencil-like design or go for the Rob Cross series with its unique pixel grip technology that enhances grip and control. If flight customization is what you're after, the Man Cave series offers a wide range of flights with unique designs that add flare to your throws. And for shafts, the Prism Force series provides a sturdy and customizable option with different lengths and materials. Other top brands such as Target, Harrows, and Unicorn also offer a wide selection of darts with interchangeable components for a truly personalized darting experience.
Anti-slip features
Having a dart with good anti-slip properties ensures a secure grip and helps maintain control during each throw. Dart manufacturers understand the importance of this feature and offer various options to choose from. For example, the Viper Blitz 95% Tungsten Steel Tip Darts utilizes a strategically placed knurled grip pattern that provides excellent traction. Its slim barrel design also enhances hand placement, allowing for a consistent grip. Another option is the Ignat Games Steel Tip Darts Set which features a micro-textured barrel with an ergonomic profile for precise control and improved accuracy. These darts come with aluminum shafts that offer lightweight durability, further enhancing the overall grip. Ultimately, selecting darts with an anti-slip feature such as those mentioned here can greatly improve your performance and enjoyment of the game.
Accessibility to purchase different accessories (dart cases, extra tips)
It's crucial to have easy access to accessories such as dart cases and extra tips, as these are essential for the maintenance and customization of your darts.
Several products on the market provide excellent accessibility to accessories. One option is the Casemaster Legion Dart Case, which features a robust construction and can hold multiple sets of darts along with extra accessories like flights and tips. Additionally, the Harrows Clic Standard extra tips offer excellent performance and durability, ensuring that you can easily replace worn-out tips without compromising your playing experience. Other options in this segment include the Target Darts Takoma XL Dart Case and the Unicorn Rhino Dart Flights and Stems.
When considering the best dart for you, be sure to prioritize accessibility to accessories such as dart cases and extra tips, as they play a crucial role in maintaining and personalizing your darts.
Ease of assembly
Some darts require significant configuration and complicated set-up, while others are designed for quick and hassle-free assembly. A prime example of darts that prioritize ease of assembly is the 'Cosmo Fit Flight'
series. These darts feature Super Spin
shafts that allow for smooth and quick installation, ensuring minimal downtime during play. Additionally, 'One80 Revolution'
darts boast a straightforward assembly process, thanks to their Two-Function Barrels
that simplify the installation of flights and shafts, reducing frustration and allowing players to focus on their game. Ease of assembly is a crucial factor to consider when selecting darts, as it ensures minimal setup time and maximum playing time.
Instruction/manual included
A good instruction manual can greatly help beginners in understanding the proper technique, rules, and strategies in playing darts. For example, the Winmau Blade 5 Dual Core Bristle Dartboard comes with a detailed instruction manual that provides step-by-step instructions on how to properly set up and use the dartboard. Additionally, it includes tips on improving accuracy and suggests various dart games to play. Similarly, the Viper Shot King Regulation Bristle Steel Tip Dartboard includes a helpful instruction manual that guides players on how to position the board, as well as offering tips on practicing and maintaining accuracy. Having a clear and concise instruction manual included with your dart set can be highly beneficial for players of all skill levels.
Weight-balanced shaft
A weight-balanced shaft ensures smoother flight, increased accuracy, and helps the dart maintain its trajectory. There are several products in the market that offer weight-balanced shafts such as the Target Nexus - Pro 100
and the Harrows Voodoo Brass B52. The Target Nexus - Pro 100
darts feature a natural grip and incorporate a weighted nose cone and a slim barrel design which aligns the center of gravity. On the other hand, the Harrows Voodoo Brass B52 darts have a slim barrel with precision grooves, which assists in maintaining a balanced weight distribution throughout the dart. When choosing the best darts, it is essential to pick weight-balanced shafts for optimal performance.
Length of flight durability.
Flight durability refers to how long the flights, also known as the wings, of the darts will last before they wear out or become damaged. The longer the flight durability, the less often you will need to replace the flights, saving you both time and money. If you are looking for darts with excellent flight durability, consider the Winmau Prism Alpha darts which are made with a durable Prism Force Flight system that provides exceptional longevity. Another option is the Target Pro Grip Shafts
which are constructed from ultra-durable nylon, ensuring a longer lifespan for your flights.
Price
Depending on your budget, you can find darts that range from budget-friendly options to more expensive, high-end products. If you are looking for an affordable option, the Viper Blitz 95% Tungsten Steel Tip Darts are a great choice. They feature 95% tungsten barrels, which increases durability and provides a sleek look. Another affordable option to consider is the Harrows Silver Shark Steel Tip Darts, which have an aluminum shaft and sleek silver-gray metallic coating on the barrels. For those with a higher budget, the Target Darts Phil Taylor Power 9-Five Gen 3 Steel Tip Darts
are top-of-the-line. These darts have a nano grip technology coating that ensures a superior grip, combined with a triple axial carbon fiber inlay for enhanced stability.
Variety of brands
Each brand has its own pros and cons, so it's important to understand these factors before making a decision.
One popular brand in the dart industry is Red Dragon Darts. They offer a wide range of darts, from entry-level to professional-grade options. Red Dragon Darts are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and innovative design, ensuring precise and consistent throws. However, some players find their darts to be a bit pricier compared to other brands, which could be a drawback for budget-conscious individuals.
Another well-respected brand in the dart world is Winmau. They are known for their precision-engineered darts that offer excellent balance and performance. Winmau darts are crafted from high-quality materials such as tungsten, making them durable and long-lasting. However, some users find that Winmau darts may have a slightly larger diameter compared to other brands, which can affect the trajectory of the dart.
In addition to these brands, there are other reputable options available like Target Darts
, Unicorn Darts, and Harrows Darts. Each of these brands has its own unique offerings and it's recommended to thoroughly research the specifications and reviews of their products before making a decision.