How to Choose Your First Darts: A Beginner's Guide

Just discovered darts at your local pub and want to invest in your first set? The choice can seem overwhelming given the variety of models available. Don't worry — this guide explains everything you need to know to make the right choice.

Why Invest in Your Own Darts?

Most pubs provide house darts, but they're often worn out and inconsistent. Having your own darts allows you to:

• Develop consistency in your throw
• Get used to the weight and balance of your darts
• Progress faster thanks to a consistent feel

A good beginner dart set costs between £15-40 — a modest investment for lasting enjoyment.

Weight: The Most Important Factor

Dart weight is measured in grams and determines trajectory and feel.

Common Weight Ranges

• 16-20g: lightweight darts, require more force and precision
• 20-24g: the recommended range for beginners
• 24-30g: heavy darts, more direct trajectory

Our recommendation: start with darts between 22 and 24 grams. It's the most versatile weight and used by the majority of amateur players.

Barrel Material

The barrel (the body of the dart, where you grip it) is the key component. Three materials dominate:

Brass

• Price: £10-20
• Advantage: affordable, ideal for testing
• Disadvantage: thicker (low density), wears quickly

Nickel-Silver

• Price: £20-40
• Advantage: good quality-to-price ratio
• Disadvantage: slightly less slim than tungsten

Tungsten

• Price: £30-100+
• Advantage: very dense, allows slim barrels for tight grouping
• Disadvantage: more expensive

For beginners, a nickel-silver or 80% tungsten set offers the best value.

Barrel Shape

The shape affects your grip and throwing style:

• Straight: versatile, suits most grips
• Torpedo: thicker in the middle, natural grip point
• Bomb: short and stubby, for quick throws

If you don't know your style yet, go with a straight or slightly torpedo barrel.

Grip Texture

Grip refers to the knurling pattern on the barrel:

• Smooth: minimal grip, for soft throwers
• Ringed: regular grooves, standard grip
• Aggressive (knurled): pronounced texture, strong grip

A medium ringed grip is ideal for beginners. You'll refine your preference with experience.

Steel Tip or Soft Tip?

The choice depends on what type of board you'll be playing on:

• Steel tip: for sisal (natural fibre) dartboards. The standard in pubs and competition in France.
• Soft tip: for electronic dartboards. Popular for casual play and in some bars.

For more on this topic, check out our dedicated article on steel tip vs soft tip darts.

Essential Accessories

Beyond your darts, consider:

• A dart case: protects your darts and fits in your pocket
• Spare flights: they wear out quickly, buy several sets
• Spare shafts: stems can bend or break

Where to Try Before You Buy?

The best way to choose is to try. Visit a darts bar near you to test different models. Most regular players will happily lend you their darts for a few throws.

Ready to Play?

Once you've chosen your darts, all that's left is finding a tournament to break them in! With FindMyDarts, discover amateur tournaments near you and join a community of enthusiasts. Test your level and find your first tournament now.