Credit: www.dartscorner.co.uk
If you’re serious about darts, steel tip darts are the gold standard for precision, durability, and professional gameplay. Whether you’re a casual player or aspiring to compete, choosing the right steel tip darts can elevate your game. But with countless options on the market, how do you pick the perfect set? This steel tip dart buyers guide breaks down everything you need to know, from materials and weight to grip styles and budget considerations. Let’s dive in!
Why Steel Tip Darts? Key Benefits
Steel tip darts are designed for traditional bristle dartboards (sisal or cork), making them the preferred choice for leagues, tournaments, and home setups. Here’s why they stand out:
Precision & Control: Their slim, weighted design allows for accurate throws.
Durability: Made from robust materials like tungsten, they resist wear and tear.
Customization: Easily swap flights, shafts, and tips to match your playstyle.
Professional Appeal: Used in major tournaments like the PDC World Championship.
Factors to Consider When Buying Steel Tip Darts
To find your ideal steel tip darts, focus on these critical factors:
1. Dart Material: Tungsten vs. Brass vs. Nickel
Tungsten (80%-95%): The top choice for pros. High-density material allows for slimmer barrels without sacrificing weight. Offers better grouping and durability. Best for serious players.
Brass: Affordable but less durable. Barrels are thicker, which may hinder tight groupings. Ideal for beginners.
Nickel/Silver: Sleek and corrosion-resistant, but softer than tungsten. A mid-range option.
Pro Tip: Opt for 90% tungsten darts for the perfect balance of price and performance.
2. Weight: Finding Your Sweet Spot
Steel tip darts typically range from 18g to 26g. Lighter darts (18-20g) offer speed and agility, while heavier ones (24-26g) provide stability.
Beginners: Start with 22-24g—versatile for most styles.
Front-grippers: Lighter darts (18-20g) suit quick, wrist-driven throws.
Rear-grippers: Heavier darts (24-26g) stabilize slower, controlled releases.
Test Before Buying: Many shops offer trial sets to find your ideal weight.
3. Barrel Shape and Grip
The barrel’s shape and grip affect control and consistency:
Straight Barrel: Uniform width—great for balanced grips.
Bomb/Teardrop: Wider front for rear-grippers.
Scalloped: Indentations for consistent finger placement.
Grip Styles:
Ringed: Deep grooves for maximum grip.
Knurled: Textured metal for tactile control (avoid if you sweat heavily).
Smooth: Minimal grip, suited for quick releases.
4. Shaft (Stem) Length and Material
Shafts connect the barrel to the flight, influencing dart trajectory:
Length:
Short shafts: Faster, tighter throws.
Long shafts: Higher arc, slower descent.
Materials:
Nylon: Affordable but brittle.
Aluminum: Durable and adjustable.
Carbon Fiber: Lightweight and robust (premium choice).
5. Flight Shape and Size
Flights stabilize the dart in flight. Common shapes include:
Standard: Balanced for most players.
Slim: Reduced air resistance for faster throws.
Teardrop: Hybrid of standard and slim.
Pear: Shorter for tighter groupings.
Experiment: Mix and match flights to see what complements your throw.
Steel Tip vs. Soft Tip Darts: What’s the Difference?
Steel Tip: For bristle boards, heavier, professional-grade.
Soft Tip: Plastic tips for electronic boards, lighter, popular in casual settings.
Choose steel tip if: You want authenticity, play on traditional boards, or aim to compete.
Top 5 Steel Tip Darts in 2023 (Reviews)
Here are our top picks across budgets:
1. Winmau Navigator 3 90% Tungsten Darts
Weight: 22g-26g
Features: 90% tungsten, ringed grip, durable nylon shafts.
Pros: Affordable pro-grade performance.
Price: 25−35
2. Red Dragon Razor Edge Carbon
Weight: 24g
Features: 90% tungsten, aggressive razor grip, carbon stems.
Pros: Exceptional grip for precision.
Price: 40−50
3. Harrows Wolfram 97% Tungsten
Weight: 23g-25g
Features: Ultra-thin 97% tungsten barrels, scalloped grip.
Pros: Premium quality for tight groupings.
Price: 70−90
4. Viper Blitz 85% Tungsten
Weight: 21g-26g
Features: Knurled grip, brass nickel coating.
Pros: Budget-friendly with pro feel.
Price: 20−30
5. Unicorn Phase 5 Peter Wright Snakebite
Weight: 22g-24g
Features: 90% tungsten, unique scalloped design, used by PDC pros.
Pros: Tournament-ready performance.
Price: 80−100
How to Maintain Your Steel Tip Darts
Clean Regularly: Wipe barrels with a microfiber cloth to remove oils.
Rotate Flights/Shafts: Extend lifespan by swapping worn parts.
Sharpen Tips: Use a dart sharpener to prevent bounce-outs.
Store Properly: Keep in a case to avoid damage.
FAQs: Steel Tip Dart Buyers Guide
Q: Are steel tip darts better than soft tip?
A: For traditional boards and serious play, yes. Soft tip suits electronic boards.
Q: What weight do pro dart players use?
A: Most pros use 21g-24g, but it’s personal preference.
Q: Can I use steel tip darts on an electronic board?
A: No—they’ll damage the board. Use soft tip instead.
Q: How long do tungsten darts last?
A: Decades with proper care!
Final Tips for Buying Steel Tip Darts
Try Before You Buy: Test weights and grips at a local store.
Prioritize Tungsten: It’s worth the investment for serious players.
Customize: Adjust shafts, flights, and tips to refine your setup.
Conclusion
Choosing the best steel tip darts boils down to your playstyle, budget, and preferences. With this guide, you’re equipped to make an informed decision. Whether you opt for the Winmau Navigator 3 for affordability or the pro-grade Harrows Wolfram, the right darts will transform your game. Ready to hit the bullseye? Grab your perfect set and start throwing!