If you are considering a new set of darts, whether you are a beginner or a pro, it’s crucial that you choose the right ones for you.
With so many options available, it can be confusing and difficult to decide on the right darts that suits you the best.
It is helpful to have some advice and tips to follow when making your choice if you are a beginner.
I have put together a list of 7 tips which will help you choose the right darts for you.
1. What dart size is recommended for beginners?
If you a new darter or dart player, getting the proper size dart from the start is important. Of course, you can always change sizes and make adjustments to what suits you best as time goes on. But if you start off on the right foot with the properly sized darts, your progression will be improved.
The best dart weight to choose for a beginner is 22 – 24 grams which is an average weight. Starting with this weight will allow you to make smaller adjustments as needed to suit you without making a more drastic change.
Darts can vary in weight and it’s common to see them in the 20 – 27 gram range. There are lighter and heavier darts if you choose to use them.
2. Steel-tip vs soft tip
When choosing between a steel tip dart and a soft tip dart, it really comes down to the type of board you are playing on.
If you are playing on a bristle dartboard, it is best to use a steel tip dart.
If you are playing on a plastic or electronic dartboard, it is best to use a soft tip dart.
Although you can use them on a bristle dartboard if you like, they are normally used on plastic or electronic boards.
The main difference between the two darts is the steel tip dart has a metal point and the soft tip dart has a plastic flexible tip.
3. Choose a barrel type
Darts are made with a few different materials and you will need to chose what is best for you.
The material used to make the barrel of the dart is responsible for it’s weight and feel in your hand.
- Brass barrels will be the most affordable option and the less durable.
- Nickel barrels will cost more but are better quality.
- Tungsten barrels are the most commonly used and are known for their durability and long lasting qualities.
There are also several different types of barrel grips to choose from. Darts can be customized to suit your feel and grip that is most comfortable.
Some people prefer a more smooth barrel while others prefer a rough barrel with certain patterns or knurl which is the cross etching on a dart’s barrel.
4. Choose a barrel and shaft length
Darts are available in many different designs, shapes, and sizes and its a personal choice for which one you decide to use.
The dart’s barrel length is normally chosen based on your hand size and type of grip. If you like to use more fingers when gripping the dart, choose a longer barrel. This will give you more space and will be more comfortable.
The shaft length is important as it’s purpose is to provide stabilty as the dart moves through the air.
- Longer shaft – Unstable flight path but better for preventing the dart from bouncing out of the board.
- Shorter shaft – More stable flight path but an increased risk of the the dart bouncing out of the board.
5. Dart weight
As mentioned, darts vary in weight and you need to choose the most comfortable weight for you. Most people will choose a weight from 21 – 27 grams with 24 being an average weight.
The weight of dart you choose is important as it can affect your performance. You should match the weight of the dart with your personal throwing style.
Heavier darts tend to fly straighter through the air and are better for precision. If you are a beginner and not so precise, start with a lighter dart like a 22 – 24 gram weight.
6. Dart flights
The flights on a dart play an important role as they provide aerodynamic stability while the dart is in flight.
Choosing the right flights will depend on your throwing style as the flights affect the dart flight path while it’s in the air.
There are so many different types of flights available and you can spend a lot of time researching them. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes, designs, weights.
Basically, dart flights come in two categories.
Fast flights – Smaller but longer in size. Best for high precision and stability at higher speeds.
Slow flights – Shorter in size with a larger surface area. Best for longer pitched flight paths.
7. Cost
The price of darts certainly varies and for most people, the cost an important factor when deciding on which darts you should choose.
One of the great features of darts is that you don’t need to buy an expensive set to play better. Expensive darts won’t make you a professional player.
If you are a beginner, there are a wide range of prices to choose from. Dart prices can be anywhere from $20 – $200.
Higher end darts that are made out of quality materials and professionally designed will cost more.
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