Choosing the right dart can make a huge difference in your game. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your setup, finding a dart that suits your playing style is key to improving accuracy, consistency, and overall performance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the main factors to consider when picking the perfect dart.
🏆 1. Weight – Finding the Right Balance
Darts typically range from 18g to 26g (though some can be heavier or lighter). The weight of the dart can significantly affect how it flies and how comfortable it feels in your hand:
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Lighter darts (18g–21g):
✔️ Require more throwing force
✔️ Fly faster through the air
✔️ Ideal for players with a quick, snappy throw -
Heavier darts (22g–26g):
✔️ More stable in flight
✔️ Require less force to maintain accuracy
✔️ Better for a slower, more controlled throw
👉 Tip: Try a variety of weights to see which feels most natural in your hand. A good starting point for most beginners is 21g–23g.
🎯 2. Barrel Shape – Comfort and Control
The barrel is the part of the dart you grip, and its shape impacts how you throw:
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Straight Barrel:
✔️ Even weight distribution
✔️ Ideal for players who grip the dart in the middle -
Torpedo Barrel:
✔️ Heavier toward the front
✔️ Best for players who grip towards the front -
Scalloped Barrel:
✔️ Provides a defined grip point
✔️ Good for consistent finger placement
👉 Tip: Pay attention to how the dart feels in your hand. A secure, comfortable grip will help with accuracy and consistency.
🚀 3. Grip – Texture Matters
Dart barrels come with different grip textures:
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Smooth Grip:
✔️ Less friction
✔️ Best for players with a light grip -
Ringed Grip:
✔️ Provides consistent feel
✔️ Good for balanced control -
Knurled Grip:
✔️ Maximum grip and control
✔️ Ideal for players with sweaty hands or who prefer a firm hold
👉 Tip: The right grip helps you throw with confidence — not too loose, not too tight.
🌪️ 4. Shaft – Length and Material
The shaft connects the barrel to the flight and impacts dart balance and trajectory:
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Short Shafts:
✔️ Encourage a faster, more direct throw
✔️ Best for players who throw hard -
Medium Shafts:
✔️ Balanced trajectory
✔️ Suitable for most players -
Long Shafts:
✔️ Create a slower, more looping throw
✔️ Ideal for players who throw gently
👉 Tip: If your darts wobble in the air, try adjusting your shaft length.
🪶 5. Flights – Stability in the Air
Flights come in different shapes, which affect how the dart flies:
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Standard Flights:
✔️ More stability and control
✔️ Ideal for heavier darts and slower throws -
Slim Flights:
✔️ Less drag
✔️ Better for lighter darts and faster throws -
Shape Flights (Kite, Pear, etc.):
✔️ Offer unique balance and trajectory changes
✔️ Good for customizing your throw style
👉 Tip: If your darts are veering off course, experimenting with flight shape might help.
🏅 6. Material – Tungsten vs. Brass
The material of the barrel affects the feel and durability:
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Tungsten:
✔️ Denser material allows for thinner barrels
✔️ More durable and long-lasting
✔️ Preferred by serious players -
Brass:
✔️ Affordable and easy to work with
✔️ Thicker barrels due to lower density
✔️ Better for beginners
👉 Tip: If you’re serious about improving, investing in tungsten darts is usually worth it.
🔥 Find Your Perfect Dart at JLO Darts!
At JLO Darts, we stock a wide range of darts, shafts, and flights to help you customize your setup and find the perfect fit for your game. If you’re unsure where to start, visit us in-store for expert advice or browse our selection online at jlodarts.com.
✅ Try different combinations
✅ Test different weights and grips
✅ Find the dart that feels right for YOU
Get ready to hit the bullseye with confidence — your perfect dart is waiting!