Beginner Darts: How to Choose Your First Set

Start with the board you will use, a comfortable weight and a barrel you can hold consistently. An expensive player model is optional; a suitable first set and matching spare parts are enough to begin.

Match the tip to your board

Choose steel-tip darts for a bristle dartboard. For an electronic board, follow that board's soft-tip and weight requirements. If you are setting up at home, use the first steel-tip setup checklist to check the board, protection, lighting and space.

Narrow the first choice

• Weight: if you have no preference, compare 22g to 24g steel-tip darts as a starting range. Read the weight guide before treating any number as a rule.
• Barrel: start by comparing straight barrels with a moderate grip, then check where your fingers naturally sit.
• Dimensions: compare length and diameter, not only tungsten percentage. A slimmer barrel is not automatically more comfortable.
• Budget: allow for spare flights and shafts, plus the board setup if you need it.

Brass, 80%, 90% or 95% tungsten?

Brass sets can be an inexpensive way to start. Tungsten alloys allow manufacturers to make more compact barrels at a given weight, but the finished dimensions and grip still matter. You do not need the highest percentage to learn a repeatable throw.

The 90% vs 95% tungsten guide explains the material choice. Our two-dart 24g comparison shows actual product photos and dimensions so you can see what to compare.

Check the parts before ordering

Read what comes in the set: barrels, flights, shafts, points and any tool are not identical across listings. Standard folded flights and compatible shafts are straightforward to replace. Proprietary moulded or integrated systems need their own compatibility check.

Swiss Point, EVO and other interchangeable point systems are not universal replacements for every barrel. Keep the supplied setup initially, then read the point compatibility guide before buying spares or upgrades.

Choose a short, useful shortlist

1. Set a budget and confirm the board type.
2. Choose a likely weight range.
3. Compare two or three barrels by length, diameter and grip position.
4. Check included accessories and the cost of matching spares.
5. Choose one set and give it several practice sessions.

Browse steel-tip darts, darts under $100 or trade-in darts. For a trade-in, read the condition description and inspect the actual photos; included parts can differ from a new retail set.

Common questions

Should I buy my favourite player's darts?

You can, but compare the weight and grip with your own needs. The player's name does not establish a fit.

If the darts are for someone else, follow the buying-darts-as-a-gift checklist before choosing a player model or changing their usual specifications.

Do I need different points straight away?

Usually you can start with the supplied setup. Learn what you want to change before buying a different length or grip.

What if my first set feels wrong?

Check damaged or loose parts first. If you change anything, change one feature at a time and use a consistent practice comparison.

Ask On Point Darts for help with your budget, board type and any darts you have already tried.

Build on your first-set shortlist

• Compare the broader specification checklist in the online darts buying guide.
• If two sets feel different in the hand, use the dart grip and barrel-shape guide.