Buying Guide for the Best Professional Darts
Choosing the right set of professional darts can significantly impact your game. The right darts will feel comfortable in your hand, suit your throwing style, and help you achieve better accuracy and consistency. When selecting darts, consider the following key specifications to find the best fit for you. Remember, the best darts for you will depend on your personal preferences and playing style, so it's important to try different options and see what works best for you.WeightThe weight of a dart is crucial because it affects how the dart flies and how it feels in your hand. Darts typically range from 16 to 30 grams. Lighter darts (16-20 grams) are easier to throw and can be more forgiving for beginners, while heavier darts (21-30 grams) offer more stability and are preferred by experienced players. To find the right weight for you, consider your throwing style and try out different weights to see which one gives you the best control and accuracy.
Barrel MaterialThe barrel is the main body of the dart, and its material can affect the dart's durability and grip. Common materials include brass, nickel-silver, and tungsten. Brass is the most affordable but less durable, making it suitable for beginners. Nickel-silver offers better durability and grip. Tungsten is the most popular choice among professionals due to its high density, allowing for thinner barrels and better grouping on the dartboard. Choose a barrel material that matches your level of play and preference for grip and durability.
Barrel ShapeBarrel shape influences how the dart feels in your hand and how it flies. There are various shapes, including straight, torpedo, and scalloped. Straight barrels are versatile and suitable for most players. Torpedo-shaped barrels are thicker in the middle and taper towards the ends, providing a comfortable grip and stable flight. Scalloped barrels have grooves or indentations for enhanced grip. Experiment with different shapes to find the one that feels most comfortable and improves your throwing accuracy.
GripThe grip on a dart barrel can vary from smooth to heavily knurled. The grip affects how securely you can hold the dart and how it releases from your hand. A smooth grip is easier to release but may be harder to hold consistently. A heavily knurled grip provides a secure hold but may affect the release. Medium knurling offers a balance between grip and release. Choose a grip that feels comfortable and allows you to maintain control without affecting your throw.
Flight ShapeThe flight is the tail of the dart, and its shape affects the dart's stability and speed. Common shapes include standard, slim, and pear. Standard flights provide maximum stability and are ideal for beginners. Slim flights offer less drag and are suitable for faster throws. Pear-shaped flights provide a balance between stability and speed. Consider your throwing speed and style when choosing a flight shape to ensure optimal performance.
Shaft LengthThe shaft connects the barrel to the flight and comes in various lengths, including short, medium, and long. Shaft length affects the dart's balance and flight path. Short shafts provide a more direct flight and are suitable for players who throw with a lot of force. Medium shafts offer a balance between stability and speed. Long shafts provide more stability and are ideal for players with a smoother, slower throw. Experiment with different shaft lengths to find the one that complements your throwing style.
