best darts for beginners

best darts for beginners...

In this post we will unveil our top 5 picks of the best darts for beginners.

person aiming on dartboard
person aiming on dartboard

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how to pick the best darts for a beginner ?

Are you an aspiring dart player, eager to step up your game and become the next dart champion? Whether you're a complete beginner or have dabbled in the sport, choosing the right darts can significantly impact your performance and overall experience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about picking the best darts for beginners, ensuring you start your darting journey on the right foot!

  1. Understand Dart Components

Before delving into the different types of darts available, it's essential to understand their key components:

  • Barrel: The main part of the dart that players grip and throw.

  • Shaft: The back portion that connects the barrel to the flight.

  • Flight: The wings or fins at the end of the shaft, affecting the dart's stability and trajectory.

  1. Choose the Right Weight

Selecting the appropriate weight is crucial for beginners. Optimal dart weight varies from person to person, but as a general rule, beginners should start with darts weighing between 18 to 20 grams. Heavier darts offer more stability but might require more force to throw accurately, making them less suitable for newcomers.

  1. Decide on Dart Material

Darts are commonly made from brass, nickel-silver, tungsten, or a combination of these materials. Tungsten darts are the most popular among professionals due to their slim design and high density, allowing for tighter groupings and improved accuracy. Beginners can begin with an affordable tungsten-nickel mix, striking a balance between quality and budget.

  1. Consider Grip and Shape

The grip on the barrel greatly influences your control over the dart. Darts come in various grip styles, such as smooth, knurled, or ringed. Experiment with different grip styles to find what feels most comfortable for you. Additionally, consider the barrel's shape; straight barrels suit a straightforward throw, while tapered barrels allow for a more relaxed grip.

  1. Flight and Shaft Combinations

For beginners, standard shaped flights are recommended, as they offer stability and are less prone to deflection. Pair these with medium-length nylon or plastic shafts, as they provide a good balance between durability and flexibility.

  1. Test Before Buying

Before making a purchase, try out different darts if possible. Visit your local dart shop or attend darting events to experience the feel of various darts in your hand. This hands-on approach can help you make a more informed decision.

  1. Read Reviews and Seek Expert Advice

To gather more insights into specific dart models, read online reviews from fellow beginners and experts. Often, experienced players share valuable information about their darting journey, including the best darts for beginners. Engage with the darting community and seek advice from seasoned players to refine your choices.

  1. Set a Budget

Dart prices can range from budget-friendly to extravagant. As a beginner, it's best to set a reasonable budget for your darts. While investing in quality darts is essential for improvement, there's no need to break the bank at this stage of your journey.

Selecting the best darts for beginners can be a game-changer in your darting experience. Remember to consider factors such as weight, material, grip, flight and shaft combinations, and budget. Testing darts firsthand and seeking advice from experienced players can further enhance your decision-making process.

Understanding Dart Scoring: A Beginners Guide

Dart scoring is an integral part of the game, and understanding how to tally points accurately is essential for any aspiring dart player. Whether you're a beginner just getting started or someone looking to refine their dart scoring skills, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the ins and outs of dart scoring. Let's explore the scoring system and strategies to maximize your points during a dart game.

  1. The Basics of Dart Scoring

In traditional dart games, the scoring is based on hitting specific areas on the dartboard, which is divided into numbered segments, inner and outer bullseyes, and other special regions. Here's a quick breakdown:

  • Numbered Segments: The dartboard is divided into 20 numbered segments, each representing a different score from 1 to 20. The higher the number, the smaller the segment.

  • Bullseye: The center of the dartboard consists of two parts—the inner bullseye (worth 50 points) and the outer bullseye (worth 25 points).

  • Outer Ring and Inner Ring: The outer ring of each numbered segment doubles the score, while the inner ring triples the score. For instance, hitting the outer ring of the 20 segment gives you 40 points, and the inner ring yields 60 points.

  1. Scoring in Different Dart Games

Different dart games have their own unique scoring rules. Let's look at two popular dart games and how the scoring works in each:

a. 501: In the game of 501, each player starts with 501 points and must work their way down to exactly zero to win. Players take turns throwing three darts, subtracting the total score from their remaining points. The game concludes when a player reaches zero precisely, either by hitting a double or the bullseye. Going below zero ("going bust") resets the player's score to what it was at the start of their turn.

b. Cricket: Cricket is a strategic game that focuses on hitting specific numbers on the dartboard, rather than subtracting points. The objective is to close specific numbers (15 to 20) and the bullseye by hitting them three times. Once a player closes a number, they score points for hitting it again while denying points to their opponent. The game continues until all numbers and the bullseye are closed, and the player with the higher score wins.

  1. Tips for Maximizing Dart Scoring

To improve your dart scoring, consider these practical tips:

a. Aim for Doubles and Triples: Hitting doubles and triples not only increases your score but also helps you reach zero faster in games like 501. Practice aiming for these areas to boost your scoring potential.

b. Master the Checkout: In 501, the checkout refers to the combination of darts that brings your score to exactly zero. Work on different checkout combinations to become more efficient in finishing the game.

c. Strategic Targeting: In games like Cricket, focus on closing the numbers your opponent needs the most while scoring points yourself. Analyze your opponent's weaknesses and exploit them to gain an advantage.

d. Stay Calm Under Pressure: Mental composure is vital during dart games. Stay focused, composed, and avoid getting frustrated by missed shots. Remember, dart games can quickly turn around, so maintaining a positive mindset is crucial.

Dart scoring is the backbone of any dart game, and mastering it is essential for players of all levels. Understanding the basics of dart scoring, learning the rules of different dart games, and implementing strategic scoring techniques will undoubtedly enhance your darting skills and overall enjoyment of the game.

So, gather your darts, practice your aim, and dive into the exciting world of dart scoring. With dedication and practice, you'll be hitting those bullseyes and achieving those perfect checkouts in no time! Happy darting!

brown and black round board
brown and black round board
a sign on the side of a building
a sign on the side of a building

Avoiding Common Darting Mistakes: A Path to Faster Skill Development

As with any sport, darting requires practice, patience, and a keen eye for improvement. For beginners, it's easy to fall into common pitfalls that hinder skill development. In this article, we'll identify some prevalent darting mistakes made by novices and provide practical solutions to overcome them, helping you progress faster on your journey to becoming a skilled dart player.

  1. Gripping the Dart Incorrectly:

One of the most common mistakes beginners make is holding the dart too tightly or loosely. A tense grip can lead to inconsistent throws, while a loose grip may result in a lack of control and accuracy.

Solution: Experiment with different grip styles, finding one that feels comfortable and secure in your hand. Aim for a relaxed grip that allows for a smooth and natural release, ensuring better control over the dart's flight.

  1. Inconsistent Stance and Balance:

Beginners often neglect the importance of a consistent stance and balance while throwing darts. Poor foot positioning and shifting weight can lead to off-balance throws and erratic aim.

Solution: Develop a balanced and stable stance. Stand with your dominant foot slightly forward and maintain a consistent distance from the dartboard. Distribute your weight evenly, avoiding sudden movements during the throw.

  1. Focusing Only on the Bullseye:

Novices tend to fixate solely on hitting the bullseye, neglecting the significance of hitting other target areas on the dartboard.

Solution: While the bullseye is an attractive target, focus on landing darts in different areas of the board to develop a well-rounded game. Practice hitting various numbers, doubles, and triples to improve overall accuracy.

  1. Overthrowing or Underthrowing:

Misjudging the required force for the throw is a common error among beginners. Overthrowing can lead to bouncing darts off the board, while underthrowing results in darts falling short of the intended target.

Solution: Practice finding the right throwing force through trial and error. Aim for a smooth, controlled throw, and gradually adjust the force until you achieve consistent accuracy.

  1. Neglecting Warm-up and Practice:

Skipping warm-up routines and infrequent practice are detrimental to skill development. Darting is a precision sport that demands regular practice to maintain and improve accuracy.

Solution: Prioritize warming up before every dart session to loosen your muscles and enhance your focus. Set aside dedicated practice time regularly, incorporating drills and exercises to refine your throwing technique.

  1. Ignoring Mental Focus and Concentration:

In the excitement of the game, beginners may overlook the importance of mental composure, leading to rushed and anxious throws.

Solution: Develop mental discipline and focus on each throw. Take your time, breathe deeply, and visualize your target before releasing the dart. Cultivate a positive mindset, maintaining composure even during challenging moments.

By avoiding these common darting mistakes and adopting the suggested solutions, beginners can fast-track their skill development and enhance their darting experience. Remember, success in darting is a combination of technique, practice, and mental fortitude. Embrace the learning process, stay dedicated to improvement, and watch as your dart game elevates to new heights. Happy darting!

5 of the best darts for beginners

black and white round logo
black and white round logo

Pros of Product:

  • Ultimate darts set for all skill levels

  • Exceptional balance and styling

  • Durable and unbreakable aluminum shafts

  • Specially designed dart flights for increased speed

  • Versatile set with various flight styles

  • Comes with a sturdy plastic dart case

  • Suitable for professionals and recreational players

  • Ideal gift option for special occasions

Cons of Product:

  • Few color choices for barrels and shafts

key specs:

  • Barrel Weight: 21 grams

  • Shaft Material: Premium aluminum

  • Dart Flights: 16 thickened poly pro flights (4 styles)

  • Dart Case: Durable plastic

  • Extra Feature: Spring O-ring to prevent flight loosening

Where to buy:

Pros of Product:

  • Premium quality 80% tungsten steeltip darts

  • Includes flights and stems in multiple colors

  • Comes with a convenient Red Dragon wallet

  • Available in various weight options (22g, 24g, 26g, 28g, 30g)

  • High-quality construction for durability and performance

Cons of Product:

  • Limited quantity per set (3 darts per set)

  • No additional accessories (e.g., extra flights or shafts)


Key Specs:

  • Material: 80% Tungsten

  • Weight Options: 22g, 24g, 26g, 28g, 30g

  • Flights: 2 x sets of Red Dragon flights (1 x black, 1 x white)

  • Stems: 2 x sets of Red Dragon stems (1 x black, 1 x white)

  • Included: Red Dragon wallet for storage

where to buy:

pros of Product:

  • Customizable dart set with multiple setup options

  • High-quality and unbreakable brass barrels

  • Includes 12 durable aluminum shafts in two lengths

  • O-rings provided to prevent loosening

  • Versatile with 12 flights in two different shapes

  • Comes with a darts multi-use tool and sharpener

  • Slim case for easy storage and portability


Cons of Product:

  • Limited weight option (only 22g available)

  • No extra accessories beyond the provided set


key specs:

  • Barrel Material: Unbreakable Brass

  • Barrel Weight: 22g

  • Shaft Material: Aluminum

  • Shaft Lengths: 6 x 35mm and 6 x 48mm

  • Flights: 12 flights in two shapes (6 Standard, 6 Slim)

  • Additional Accessories: 12 O-rings, Darts Multi-Use Tool, Darts Sharpener, Slim Case

where to buy:

Pros of Product:

  • Comprehensive set with 6 sturdy steel tip darts

  • Unique three-section grip for enhanced control

  • Includes 9 standard flights and 9 laser flights

  • Carving aluminum shafts with o-ring for durability

  • Extra 12 rubber o-rings prevent shaft loosening

  • Practical accessories: dart sharpener and magnetic box

  • Suitable for all skill levels and makes a great gift


Cons of Product:

  • Limited weight option (only 22/23 grams available)

  • Package box may lack protective padding


key specs:

  • Barrel Material: Metal

  • Barrel Weight: 23 grams (total darts weight)

  • Shaft Material: Carving Aluminum

  • Flights: 9 standard flights and 9 laser flights (3 types each)

  • Additional Accessories: 12 rubber o-rings, 1 dart sharpener, 1 magnetic box

where to buy:

Pros of Product:

  • Premium quality 85% tungsten darts

  • Nitrotech stems for durability

  • Hardcore flights for precision

  • Aggressive Razoredge grip for control

  • Available in a choice of weights for customization

key specs:

  • Material: 85% Tungsten

  • Weight Options: Available in various weights

  • Stems: Red Dragon Nitrotech stems

  • Flights: Red Dragon Hardcore flights

  • Grip Technology: Aggressive Razoredge grip

where to buy:

Cons of Product:

  • Limited quantity per set (3 darts per set)

  • No additional accessories beyond the provided set

  • on the pricey side of some of the other darts

  • limited information on amazon