Buying Guide for the Best Beginner Darts
Choosing the right set of darts can significantly enhance your playing experience, especially if you're a beginner. The key is to find darts that feel comfortable in your hand and suit your throwing style. As a beginner, you should focus on understanding the basic components of a dart and how they affect your game. This will help you make an informed decision and improve your skills over time.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 12 to 50 grams, but most players prefer darts between 16 and 26 grams. Lighter darts require more force to throw, which can be beneficial for players with a softer throw. Heavier darts, on the other hand, require less force and can be more stable in flight, which might suit players with a stronger throw. As a beginner, it's advisable to start with a mid-range weight, around 20 grams, and adjust based on your comfort and throwing style.
Barrel MaterialThe barrel is the main body of the dart and can be made from various materials such as brass, nickel-silver, or tungsten. Brass is the most affordable and is suitable for beginners, but it wears out faster. Nickel-silver is more durable and offers a better grip. Tungsten is the most popular choice among serious players due to its high density, allowing for thinner barrels and tighter groupings on the board. As a beginner, starting with brass or nickel-silver can be a good choice until you develop your preferences.
GripThe grip of a dart refers to the texture and feel of the barrel. It can range from smooth to heavily knurled. A good grip ensures that the dart doesn't slip during your throw, which is important for accuracy. Beginners should try different grips to see what feels most comfortable and secure in their hand. If you have sweaty hands, a more textured grip might be beneficial. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother feel, a less textured grip might be more suitable.
Flight ShapeThe flight is the tail of the dart and comes in various shapes and sizes, affecting the dart's stability and speed. Standard flights are larger and provide more stability, making them ideal for beginners who need more control. Slim flights are smaller and allow for faster throws, which might be more suitable as you gain experience and develop a faster throwing style. As a beginner, starting with standard flights can help you focus on accuracy and control.
Shaft LengthThe shaft connects the barrel to the flight and comes in different lengths, affecting the dart's balance and flight path. Shorter shafts make the dart more front-heavy, which can be beneficial for players who throw with more force. Longer shafts provide more stability and are better for players with a softer throw. Beginners should experiment with different shaft lengths to find what complements their throwing style and provides the best balance.