Choosing the right darts is crucial for anyone serious about playing the game, whether for leisure or competition. The right set of darts can significantly improve your accuracy, consistency, and overall performance. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you choose darts for beginners:
1. Know Your Dart Types:
Steel Tip Darts:
Used with bristle dartboards.
Typically heavier and more durable.
Suitable for competitive play and professional tournaments.
Soft Tip Darts:
Designed for electronic dartboards.
Lighter and often made of plastic.
Commonly used in casual settings and electronic dart leagues.
2. Consider Dart Weight:
Dart weights typically range from 12 to 50 grams, but the most common weights fall between 18 and 26 grams.
Choose a weight that feels comfortable in your hand. Experiment with different weights to find your preference.
Heavier darts may offer more stability and control, while lighter darts may be easier to throw for some players.
3. Determine Your Grip Style:
Front Grip:
Grip the dart near the front end.
Requires darts with a pronounced grip at the front.
Middle Grip:
Grip the dart in the middle.
Look for darts with a consistent grip along the barrel.
Rear Grip:
Hold the dart toward the back.
Opt for darts with a heavier concentration of grip near the rear.
4. Choose Barrel Material:
Brass: Affordable and suitable for beginners, but may tarnish over time.
Tungsten: More expensive but durable and offers a slimmer barrel for tighter grouping. Tungsten content is usually indicated as a percentage, with higher percentages indicating better quality.
Nickel-Silver: A compromise between brass and tungsten in terms of price and durability.
5. Consider Barrel Shape:
Straight Barrel: Offers consistent weight distribution and is suitable for all grip styles.
Tapered Barrel: Provides better aerodynamics and may suit players who prefer a front or middle grip.
Bomber Barrel: Widest at the front and tapers towards the rear, ideal for players who grip near the front.
Flights - How to choose darts for beginners
6. Dart Flights:
Larger flights offer more stability and are suitable for beginners or players with a powerful throw.
Smaller flights reduce drag and may improve speed and accuracy, preferred by more experienced players.
Experiment with different flight shapes (standard, slim, kite, etc.) to find what works best for your throwing style.
7. Dart Shafts:
Plastic shafts are common and inexpensive but prone to breaking.
Aluminum shafts are more durable but may add weight to the rear of the dart.
Carbon fiber shafts are lightweight and durable, offering excellent balance.
8. Try Before You Buy:
If possible, visit a dart shop or attend a darts event where you can try different sets of darts before making a purchase.
Pay attention to how the dart feels in your hand, how it flies, and how it lands on the board.
9. Budget Considerations:
Set a budget before shopping for darts, but remember that investing in a quality set can enhance your performance and enjoyment of the game.
Consider the long-term durability and performance of the darts when making your decision.
Summary its' personal- How to choose darts for beginners
10. Personal Preference:
Ultimately, the right darts for you will depend on your playing style, preferences, and level of skill.
Don't hesitate to experiment with different combinations of barrel material, weight, grip, flights, and shafts until you find the perfect setup for your game.
Something I did was try lots of darts with a camera so I could see how they moved through the air and the consistency.
By considering these factors and taking the time to experiment with different options, you can find the right darts that suit your playing style and help you achieve your darting goals. Remember, practice and patience are key to improving your skills, regardless of the equipment you choose.