Whether you’re setting up a dartboard in the garage, joining your local pub comp, or finally taking the game seriously after years of casual throws, buying your first Dart set can feel surprisingly overwhelming. Walk into any sports store in Australia and you’ll see walls covered in barrels, shafts, flights and tips. Online, the options are even more intense. Here’s the truth most beginners don’t realise: the right dart won’t magically turn you into a pro — but the wrong one can absolutely hold you back. After years of playing in local leagues, helping mates choose their first set, and testing everything from budget brass darts to professional tungsten models, this guide will walk you through exactly what matters (and what doesn’t). By the end, you’ll know how to confidently choose a Dart that suits your grip, style and goals.
Why Choosing the Right Dart Actually Matters
A Dart is more than just a pointy bit of metal. It’s a precision tool made up of multiple components working together:
- Barrel
- Shaft
- Flight
- Tip
Each part affects balance, grip, stability and accuracy. If the weight is wrong or the grip feels awkward, you’ll struggle with consistency. The goal isn’t to copy what a professional uses. It’s to find what feels natural in your hand.
Understanding Dart Types: Steel Tip vs Soft Tip
Steel Tip Darts
Used on traditional bristle dartboards.
Best for:
- Pub leagues
- Home setups with standard boards
- Serious competitive play
Pros: - More durable
- Better balance options
- Widely used in Australian competitions
Cons: - Can damage walls/floors
- Not suitable for electronic boards
Soft Tip Darts
Used on electronic dartboards.
Best for:
- Casual home games
- Safer family environments
- Arcade-style scoring
Pros: - Safer
- Auto scoring
- Lighter weight
Cons: - Plastic tips can break
- Limited weight range
Australian tip: Most serious players in Australia use steel tip darts, as they’re standard in pub and league competitions.
Choosing the Right Dart Weight
Weight is the first decision you should make.
| Player Level | Recommended Weight |
| Beginner | 22–24 grams |
| Intermediate | 21–23 grams |
| Advanced | 20–22 grams |
| Heavier darts (24g+) are more forgiving, require less throwing force, and are good for beginners. Lighter darts (20g–21g) offer faster flight and suit experienced players but require better control. Real-life scenario: If you tend to “lob” your throws and struggle with accuracy, a 23–24g Dart may stabilise your game. If your throws feel forced or heavy, try dropping down a gram or two. Pro tip: If possible, test different weights at your local darts shop before committing. |
Barrel Material: Brass vs Tungsten
The barrel is where your fingers grip the Dart — and material makes a big difference.
Brass Darts
- Affordable
- Thicker barrels
- Good for beginners on a budget
Downside: Bulkier shape limits tight groupings.
Tungsten Darts
- Denser metal
- Slimmer barrel
- Better for tighter scoring
Most serious players use 80–90% tungsten darts. My recommendation: If you’re committed to improving, skip brass and invest in at least 80% tungsten. The difference in grouping is noticeable.
Grip Style and Barrel Shape
Your grip determines which barrel shape works best.
Straight Barrel
- Most common
- Balanced feel
- Good all-rounder
Torpedo Barrel
- Front-weighted
- Suits front grippers
Front-Weighted vs Centre-Weighted
If you hold the Dart near the front, look for front-weighted designs. If you grip in the middle, centre-balanced darts feel more natural. Checklist to identify your grip:
- Do you rest your finger near the tip? → Try front-weighted
- Do you hold it in the centre? → Straight barrel
- Do you grip toward the back? → Consider longer shafts
Shafts and Flights: Small Parts, Big Impact
Shaft Length
- Short: Faster, flatter throw
- Medium: Most common
- Long: More stability
Start with medium shafts and adjust later if needed.
Flight Shape
- Standard: More stability
- Slim: Faster, less drag
- Pear: Balanced option
Beginners should start with standard flights for forgiveness.
How to Choose Your First Dart (Step-by-Step)
- Decide steel tip or soft tip
- Choose 22–24g if you’re new
- Select 80%+ tungsten if budget allows
- Start with straight barrel and medium shaft
- Use standard flights
- Test, adjust, refine
Improvement comes from consistency — not constantly changing gear.
Budget Guide: How Much Should You Spend?
| Budget Range | What You Get |
| $20–$40 | Basic brass darts |
| $50–$90 | Quality tungsten set |
| $100+ | Premium pro-level darts |
| For most Australian beginners, $60–$80 is the sweet spot. |
Common Mistakes New Players Make
- Buying ultra-light darts too soon
- Copying professional setups blindly
- Ignoring grip comfort
- Switching equipment every week
Consistency beats experimentation early on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most professionals use 20–23 grams, depending on personal preference.
If you’re serious about improving, yes. Tungsten darts improve grouping and durability.
A good tungsten Dart can last many years. Flights and shafts will need replacing regularly.
No. Heavier darts are generally more forgiving and easier to control early on.
Yes, but only slightly. Major improvements come from technique and practice.
Final Thoughts: Invest in Comfort, Not Hype
Choosing the right Dart isn’t about brand names or copying the pros. It’s about comfort, balance and building confidence in your throw. Start with a 22–24g tungsten set, keep your setup simple, and focus on developing a repeatable throwing action. As your skills improve, you’ll naturally refine your equipment. Remember: the best Dart is the one that feels right in your hand and lets you throw without overthinking. If you’re ready to take your game seriously, visit a specialist darts retailer, test a few sets, and invest wisely. A well-chosen Dart won’t guarantee 180s — but it will remove unnecessary barriers from your improvement. Now it’s your turn — grab a set, step up to the oche, and start throwing with confidence.
