If you’ve ever walked into a darts shop in Perth or scrolled through online options only to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of dart sets—don’t worry, you’re not alone. Choosing the right darts isn’t just about price or brand. It’s about finding the perfect fit for your throw, skill level, and playing style. Having played darts for years at local pubs and friendly comps across WA, I’ve learnt that the right setup can instantly improve your accuracy, comfort, and confidence at the oche.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know—dart weight, grip, barrel shape, and more—so you can choose darts that genuinely suit your game.
1. What Makes a Good Dart Setup?
A good dart setup is one that:
- Matches your natural throwing technique
- Feels comfortable in your grip
- Stays consistent in the air
- Offers predictable accuracy
Darts are personal. Two players with identical skill levels may prefer completely different setups. That’s why it’s important to experiment.
2. Choosing the Right Dart Weight
Ideal Weight Range
Most players in Australia use darts between 20g–26g. Heavier darts provide more stability, while lighter darts give more speed and flexibility.
Light vs Heavy Darts
| Weight Type | Benefits | Downsides |
| Light Darts (16g–20g) | Faster release, good for beginners, easier to group | Less stable, requires stronger technique |
| Heavy Darts (22g–28g) | More control, suits a slower throw, great for consistent players | Can feel tiring, may drop if your throw lacks lift |
How Weight Affects Your Throw
- If your darts tend to drop low, try going lighter.
- If they fly high or bounce, go heavier.
- If you grip hard, a heavier dart often feels more balanced.
3. Understanding Dart Grip
Types of Grip
Dart grips range from smooth to extremely knurled.
| Grip Level | Best For |
| Smooth | Players with delicate, precise throws |
| Medium Knurl | Most casual and competitive players |
| Heavy Knurl / Razor Grip | Sweaty hands, players needing more traction |
How to Match Grip to Your Throw
- If you release too early → choose a knurled grip.
- If you release too late → choose a smoother grip.
- If your hands sweat easily → go for a sharper or textured grip.
4. Barrel Shape & Style
1. Straight Barrels
- Versatile
- Easy grouping
- Favoured by pros
Great if you move your fingers up and down the barrel when adjusting.
2. Torpedo Barrels
- Weighted forward
- More stable
- Good for players with a hard, direct throw
3. Scalloped Barrels
- Finger grooves
- Helps consistent grip placement
Best for players who rely on exact finger positioning each throw.
5. Material Matters: Tungsten vs Brass
| Material | Pros | Cons |
| Tungsten | Slimmer design, more durable, great balance | Higher price |
| Brass | Affordable, good for beginners | Thicker barrel, less durable |
Most serious players eventually move to 80–90% tungsten darts as they offer the best control-to-size ratio.
6. Flight & Shaft Options
Shaft Types
- Plastic/Polycarbonate: Lightweight, flexible
- Aluminium: Strong, stable (but sometimes noisy on impacts)
- Carbon Fibre: Premium feel and durability
Flight Shapes
- Standard: More lift, suits slower throws
- Slim: Less drag, suits fast, direct throws
- Pear/Teardrop: Middle-ground option
A simple rule:
Fast throw → slim flights
Slow throw → standard flights
7. How to Test Darts Before Buying
When shopping for darts in Perth, try these quick tests:
The 5-Minute Test
- Hold the dart naturally.
- Throw 6–9 darts at normal pace.
- Check for:
- Stability
- Air consistency
- Comfort in grip
- Stability
- If the dart feels “forced,” try a different weight or grip.
The Balance Test
Roll the dart across your palm.
Where it balances is where it’s weighted:
- Forward-weighted → great for direct throwers
- Centre-weighted → best all-round style
- Rear-weighted → suits players who grip near the back
8. Real-Life Scenarios: Which Setup Suits You?
Scenario 1: You Throw Fast & Light
You’ll likely enjoy:
- 18g–21g
- Slim flights
- Straight or scalloped barrels
Scenario 2: You Throw Slow & Controlled
Try:
- 22g–26g
- Standard flights
- Torpedo barrels
Scenario 3: You’re a Casual Pub Player
Start with:
- 20g–24g
- Medium knurl
- Brass or 80% tungsten
Scenario 4: You’re Building a Home Dart Setup
Pair your darts with:
- A solidboard
- LED lighting
- A rubber mat to protect the floor
9. Quick Reference Tables & Checklists
Dart Selection Checklist
- Comfortable in hand
- Right weight for your throw
- Grip suits your release
- Barrel shape matches your technique
- Flights and shafts feel balanced
- Consistency over multiple throws
Weight Selector Guide
| Throw Speed | Recommended Weight |
| Fast | 18g–21g |
| Moderate | 21g–24g |
| Slow | 24g–28g |
10. FAQs
What weight do most dart players use?
Most use 22g–24g because it offers a balanced feel for both beginners and intermediates.
Are tungsten darts worth the cost?
Yes. They last longer, feel more stable, and offer slimmer barrels—ideal for tight groupings.
Do flights make a big difference?
Absolutely. Flights affect drag, stability, and the dart’s landing angle. Choosing the right one can immediately improve accuracy.
Where can I try different dart styles in Perth?
Most specialist darts stores and select sports retailers have in-store testing lanes where you can trial different setups.
Conclusion
Whether you’re starting out or levelling up your game, choosing the right darts is one of the smartest investments you can make. Take your time, test different setups, and pay attention to how each dart feels in your hand. A tailored setup not only improves accuracy—it makes the game more fun.
Ready to refine your skills? Check out our related guides like How to Improve Dart Accuracy and Best Home Dartboard Setups for more deep-dive tips.
