Professional darts players know that having the right equipment can make all the difference. It’s not just about skill; it’s about having darts that feel like an extension of your arm. Choosing the right darts can be overwhelming, with so many options available. This guide will help you navigate the options and find the best darts to elevate your game.
Here’s a quick look at some of the top darts for professionals:
- Target Darts Daytona Fire GT: High-end darts with a unique grip and exceptional balance.
- Unicorn Gripper 4 Steel Tip Darts: Popular darts with excellent grip and durability.
- Winmau Stratos Darts: Precision-engineered darts for consistent performance.
- Viper Razorback Tungsten Steel Tip Darts: Affordable tungsten darts with a slim profile.
- RED DRAGON Peter Wright Snakebite Mamba 2: Darts designed with input from a world champion.
Top 5 Best Darts for Professionals
1. Target Darts Daytona Fire GT
The Target Darts Daytona Fire GT are premium darts designed for serious players. They feature a unique trapezoidal grip and are made from 95% tungsten, providing excellent balance and control. These darts are known for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
Pros:
- ✅ Exceptional grip and control
- ✅ High-quality 95% tungsten
- ✅ Beautifully crafted design
Cons:
- ❌ High price point
- ❌ Grip may be too aggressive for some players
- ❌ Limited weight options
Verdict: These are a top-tier choice for professionals who demand the best in performance and feel, but be prepared to invest.
2. Unicorn Gripper 4 Steel Tip Darts
Unicorn Gripper 4 darts are a classic choice trusted by many professional players. They offer a reliable grip and are made with a durable tungsten alloy. Their popularity stems from their consistent performance and comfortable feel.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent grip
- ✅ Durable construction
- ✅ Trusted brand
Cons:
- ❌ Grip can wear down over time
- ❌ Design is relatively simple
- ❌ Not as visually striking as some other options
Verdict: A solid, dependable choice for players who value reliability and a comfortable grip above all else.
3. Winmau Stratos Darts
The Winmau Stratos darts are engineered for precision and consistency. They feature a unique dual-core technology that combines tungsten and polymer, enhancing balance and feel. These darts are designed to provide a stable and accurate flight path.
Pros:
- ✅ Precise and consistent performance
- ✅ Unique dual-core technology
- ✅ Excellent balance
Cons:
- ❌ Can be expensive
- ❌ May require some getting used to due to the dual-core design
- ❌ Limited grip options
Verdict: Ideal for players who prioritize precision and are willing to invest in advanced dart technology.
4. Viper Razorback Tungsten Steel Tip Darts
Viper Razorback darts offer a great balance of performance and affordability. Made from tungsten, they provide a slim profile and excellent weight distribution. These darts are a popular choice for players looking for quality without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point
- ✅ Slim profile
- ✅ Good grip
Cons:
- ❌ Tungsten quality may not be as high as premium brands
- ❌ Durability may be less than more expensive options
- ❌ Limited customization options
Verdict: A great option for professionals who want tungsten darts without a hefty price tag.
5. RED DRAGON Peter Wright Snakebite Mamba 2
Designed in collaboration with world champion Peter Wright, the RED DRAGON Snakebite Mamba 2 darts are known for their distinctive design and performance. They feature a unique grip pattern and are made from high-quality tungsten. These darts are designed for players who want a dart with a proven track record.
Pros:
- ✅ Designed with input from a world champion
- ✅ Unique and aggressive grip
- ✅ High-quality tungsten
Cons:
- ❌ Grip may be too aggressive for some
- ❌ Distinctive design may not appeal to everyone
- ❌ Can be pricey
Verdict: A top choice for players looking for a dart with a proven pedigree and a unique feel, especially if you admire Peter Wright’s style.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right darts involves considering several factors. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Weight: Dart weight is a personal preference. Heavier darts (24-26 grams) are often favored by beginners as they provide more stability, while lighter darts (20-23 grams) offer more control and finesse for experienced players. Experiment with different weights to find what feels most comfortable for you.
- Material: Tungsten is the preferred material for professional darts due to its density. Tungsten darts are slimmer than brass darts of the same weight, allowing for tighter groupings on the dartboard. Higher tungsten percentages (90% or more) indicate better quality and durability.
- Grip: The grip is crucial for consistent release. Different grip styles include knurled, ringed, and smooth. Consider your personal preference and playing style when choosing a grip. Some players prefer aggressive grips for maximum control, while others prefer smoother grips for a more relaxed feel.
- Shape: Dart shape affects flight and balance. Common shapes include torpedo, barrel, and straight. Torpedo-shaped darts are front-weighted, while barrel-shaped darts have a more balanced weight distribution. Straight darts offer a consistent grip along the entire barrel.
- Flights and Shafts: Flights and shafts impact the dart’s trajectory and stability. Experiment with different shapes, sizes, and materials to find the best combination for your throwing style. Shorter shafts provide more stability, while longer shafts can improve accuracy.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about darts for professionals:
Q: What is the best weight for professional darts?
A: There’s no single “best” weight. Most professionals use darts between 20 and 26 grams, but it depends on individual preference and throwing style. Experiment to find what feels most comfortable and consistent for you.
Q: Why are tungsten darts preferred by professionals?
A: Tungsten is denser than other materials like brass, allowing for a slimmer dart. This allows for tighter groupings on the board and reduces deflections.
Q: How often should I replace my darts?
A: It depends on how often you play and the quality of your darts. Flights and shafts will need to be replaced more frequently than the barrels. Inspect your darts regularly for wear and tear, and replace them when performance starts to decline.
Q: What is the importance of the grip on a dart?
A: The grip is essential for a consistent release. A good grip allows you to maintain control and accuracy throughout your throw. Experiment with different grip styles to find what works best for you.
Q: How do I choose the right flights for my darts?
A: Flights affect the stability and trajectory of your darts. Smaller flights are generally more stable, while larger flights provide more lift. Experiment with different shapes and sizes to find what works best for your throwing style and dart setup.
Conclusion
Finding the best darts for professionals involves considering various factors, from weight and material to grip and shape. The darts reviewed here represent some of the top options available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the best darts for you will depend on your personal preferences and playing style. Take the time to experiment and find the darts that feel like a natural extension of your arm, and you’ll be well on your way to improving your game.
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