Posted on June 28th, 2026

Choosing the right darts and mastering your throw depends on matching your equipment to the specific board you play on and the grip style you prefer.

Steel tip darts suit traditional bristle boards while soft tip versions work for electronic setups, and each requires a different approach to balance and weight.

explains how barrel materials influence your accuracy and provides specific techniques to help you refine your stance for a more consistent game.

Steel Tip Versus Soft Tip Darts for Every Skill Level

Players choose between steel tip and soft tip darts based on the environment where they play most often. Steel tip darts feature sharp metal points designed for traditional sisal or bristle boards found in many classic pubs. These darts usually weigh more, often ranging from 20 to 26 grams, which helps them fly straight and stick firmly into the dense fibers of the board. Beginners often find the extra weight of steel tips provides better feedback during the early stages of learning a consistent release.

Soft tip darts use flexible plastic points meant for electronic dartboards that track scores automatically. These boards contain thousands of tiny holes, so the plastic tips must be light to avoid damaging the internal sensors. Most soft tip darts weigh between 16 and 20 grams, requiring a faster and more deliberate throwing motion to maintain a flat trajectory. If you enjoy the social aspect of digital scoring and league play, mastering the lighter touch of a soft tip dart is essential.

Weight remains the most significant factor when you switch between these two styles. Heavier steel tips forgive small errors in your release, while the lighter soft tip darts demand precise finger placement. We see players succeed with both, but choosing one style to practice with consistently builds the muscle memory needed for high scores. Consider these factors when selecting your first set:

1. Board material at your local venue
2. Preferred dart weight for arm comfort
3. Ease of replacing broken plastic tips
4. Local league requirements for competition

Matching your equipment to the board ensures you don't damage the playing surface or your darts. Once you decide on the tip style, you can focus on the physical construction of the dart itself.

Common Barrel Materials and How They Affect Your Grip

The barrel is the part of the dart you hold, and its material determines the diameter and texture of your grip. Brass barrels are common in entry-level sets because the metal is easy to machine and relatively inexpensive. Because brass is a lighter metal, these barrels must be quite thick to reach a standard weight. This extra width can make it difficult to crowd three darts into the small triple-twenty segment of the board.

Tungsten has become the standard for serious players because it is much denser than brass or nickel. This density allows manufacturers to create very slim barrels that still carry significant weight. Slimmer barrels leave more room in the high-scoring areas of the board, reducing the chance of your darts bouncing off each other. Most professional sets contain 80% to 95% tungsten to achieve the best balance of durability and slimness.

Texture on the barrel, known as knurling or rings, prevents the dart from slipping as you release it. Some players prefer a smooth barrel for a clean release, while others need aggressive grooves to maintain control. We suggest trying different textures to see which one reacts best to the moisture levels of your hands. Finding a barrel that feels secure without sticking to your skin is the goal for every player.

"The barrel material dictates how much space you have in the winning segments, making tungsten the preferred choice for players aiming for tight groupings."

Your grip should feel natural and relaxed rather than forced or tight. Experimenting with different barrel shapes will help you identify which design complements your natural hand position.

Four Simple Techniques to Improve Your Accuracy and Focus

Accuracy begins with a stable foundation in your feet and hips. Stand with your dominant foot forward, touching the throw line at an angle that feels comfortable for your balance. Keep your front leg straight but not locked to provide a sturdy base that won't shift during your motion. Your back foot should stay on the ground to prevent your body from leaning too far forward and causing a wobble.

The throwing motion should involve only your elbow and wrist to minimize unnecessary movement. Think of your arm as a catapult where the upper arm stays parallel to the floor while the forearm moves back and forth. Avoid moving your shoulder or head, as these shifts change your line of sight and ruin your aim. Follow through completely after releasing the dart, pointing your fingers toward the target to confirm a smooth flight path.

Focusing on a specific point rather than the whole board helps sharpen your aim over time. Pick a tiny hole or a specific fiber in the segment you want to hit and keep your eyes locked on it until the dart lands. This mental discipline prevents your focus from drifting toward the scoreboard or other distractions in the room. Consistency in your routine builds the confidence needed to hit big checkouts under pressure.

1. Align your lead shoulder with the target
2. Keep your elbow tucked in and vertical
3. Release the dart at the same point every time
4. Maintain a steady breathing rhythm while aiming

Small adjustments to your stance or grip can lead to significant improvements in your average score. Practice these movements slowly until they become second nature during a match.

Visit Pockets Billiards's Premier Local Darts Setup

Our facility provides the perfect environment for you to test your equipment and refine your throwing technique.

We offer high-quality boards and plenty of space for both casual games and competitive matches.

Visit Pockets Billiards to play a round of darts and practice your new skills in a fun and social atmosphere.

Bring your friends and see how much your accuracy improves with the right form and focus.