80 vs 90 Tungsten Darts: Which Wins (And Why)?

Choosing between 80 vs 90 tungsten darts often boils down to understanding how the tungsten percentage affects the dart’s size, density, and ultimately, your throwing accuracy. This article explores the key differences between these popular dart types, helping you make an informed decision and improve your game. We’ll delve into the impact of tungsten content on performance, durability, and cost, and guide you towards selecting the best darts for your playing style and skill level.

Understanding Tungsten Darts: What Makes Them Special?

Tungsten darts are the gold standard for serious dart players. Unlike brass or nickel-silver darts, tungsten offers significantly higher density. This means that a tungsten dart of the same weight as a brass dart will be much smaller in diameter. This smaller profile has several advantages.

• Closer Groupings: Smaller barrels allow for tighter groupings on the dartboard, increasing your scoring potential.
• Reduced Deflections: A slim profile minimizes the chance of deflections when darts land close together.
• Enhanced Control: The compact size often leads to better grip and control.

The higher the tungsten percentage, the denser the dart. This is the core factor driving the differences when considering 80 vs 90 tungsten darts.

The Key Difference: 80 vs 90 Tungsten Darts

The primary distinction between 80 vs 90 tungsten darts lies in the percentage of tungsten used in their construction. An 80% tungsten dart contains 80% tungsten alloyed with other metals (typically nickel and/or copper), while a 90% tungsten dart contains 90% tungsten alloyed with other metals. This difference in tungsten content directly affects several key characteristics:

• Density: 90% tungsten darts are denser than 80% tungsten darts. This means a 90% tungsten dart will be slightly slimmer for the same weight.
• Barrel Size: For the same weight, 90% tungsten darts will have a smaller barrel diameter compared to 80% tungsten darts.
• Price: Generally, 90% tungsten darts are more expensive due to the higher tungsten content and more complex manufacturing process.

Choosing the right percentage depends on your personal preference and throwing style. Learn more about the Choose Right Dart Material

80 Tungsten Darts: A Balanced Option

80 tungsten darts represent a good middle ground for many players. They offer a significant upgrade from brass or nickel-silver darts in terms of density and performance, without the higher price tag of 90% or higher tungsten options. They are often considered a great starting point for players who are serious about improving their game and want to experience the benefits of tungsten.

Pros of 80 Tungsten Darts:

• Affordability: Generally more budget-friendly than higher tungsten options.
• Improved Density: Noticeably denser than brass or nickel-silver darts, allowing for tighter groupings.
• Durability: Tungsten alloys provide good resistance to wear and tear.
• Wider Availability: Often available in a broader range of styles and weights.

Cons of 80 Tungsten Darts:

• Larger Barrel: Still have a slightly larger barrel diameter compared to 90% tungsten darts.
• Potential for Deflections: May experience slightly more deflections compared to slimmer 90% tungsten darts.

For beginners looking to get into tungsten, you can read our guide on Beginner Dart Barrel Materials.

90 Tungsten Darts: Performance Focused

90 tungsten darts are the choice of many professional and serious amateur dart players. The higher tungsten content allows for a significantly slimmer barrel profile, which maximizes grouping potential and minimizes deflections. While they come at a higher cost, the performance benefits can be significant for skilled players.

Pros of 90 Tungsten Darts:

• Slimmer Profile: Allows for the tightest groupings and minimizes deflections.
• Maximum Density: Provides the most compact dart for a given weight.
• Enhanced Control: The slim profile often leads to improved grip and control for experienced players.

Cons of 90 Tungsten Darts:

• Higher Cost: Significantly more expensive than 80% tungsten darts.
• May Require Adjustment: Players used to larger barrels may need time to adjust to the slimmer profile.
• Can Highlight Imperfections: The increased precision can sometimes amplify minor inconsistencies in your throwing technique.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between 80 vs 90 Tungsten Darts

Beyond the tungsten percentage, several other factors should influence your decision when choosing between 80 vs 90 tungsten darts:

• Your Skill Level: Beginners may find 80% tungsten darts more forgiving, while experienced players may appreciate the performance benefits of 90% tungsten.
• Your Throwing Style: If you tend to throw darts close together, the slimmer profile of 90% tungsten darts can be advantageous.
• Your Grip: Consider the grip style and barrel shape that feels most comfortable in your hand.
• Your Budget: Set a budget and consider the long-term value of the darts. While 90% tungsten darts are more expensive upfront, they may last longer and improve your game, justifying the investment.
• Dart Weight: Experiment with different dart weights to find what feels most comfortable and promotes accuracy. Most adults use darts between 22 and 26 grams.

Knowing your throwing style will help you Choose Best Dart Equipment

Barrel Shape and Grip Styles

The barrel shape and grip style are crucial elements to consider alongside the tungsten percentage. Different barrel shapes cater to different grip styles and hand sizes. Here are some common barrel shapes:

• Straight Barrel: Consistent diameter throughout the barrel, suitable for players who grip the dart in the middle.
• Torpedo Barrel: Widest at the front and tapers towards the back, ideal for front-grippers.
• Bomb Barrel: A bulbous shape in the middle, often preferred by players who grip the dart near the center of gravity.
• Scalloped Barrel: Features indentations along the barrel for enhanced grip.

Grip styles vary widely, from a light fingertip grip to a firm, full-handed grip. Experiment with different barrel shapes and grip styles to find what feels most natural and comfortable for you. The knurling or grooves on the barrel also play a significant role in grip.

The Importance of Dart Weight

Dart weight is another critical factor to consider. Most darts range from 16 to 30 grams, with the most common weights falling between 22 and 26 grams. The ideal dart weight depends on your throwing style, hand strength, and personal preference.

• Lighter Darts (16-22 grams): Often preferred by players with a faster, more flick-like throwing motion.
• Medium Darts (22-26 grams): A good starting point for most players, offering a balance of control and momentum.
• Heavier Darts (26-30 grams): May be preferred by players with a slower, more deliberate throwing motion.

Experimenting with different dart weights is crucial to finding the optimal weight for your throwing style. Try different weights and see how they affect your accuracy and consistency. If you’re curious, you can also read about Best Material For Darts.

Testing and Experimentation

The best way to determine whether 80 vs 90 tungsten darts are right for you is to try them out. If possible, visit a dart shop that allows you to test different darts. Throw a few sets of each percentage and weight to see how they feel in your hand and how they fly. Pay attention to your grouping patterns, consistency, and overall comfort.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of barrel shapes, grip styles, and weights until you find the perfect set of darts for your individual needs. It’s an iterative process, and what works for one player may not work for another.

Maintaining Your Tungsten Darts

Proper maintenance can extend the life of your tungsten darts and ensure consistent performance. Here are some tips for caring for your darts:

• Clean Your Darts Regularly: Use a soft cloth and mild soap to remove dirt and grime from the barrels.
• Sharpen Your Points: Use a dart sharpener to maintain sharp points for optimal dartboard penetration.
• Replace Worn Flights and Shafts: Replace damaged flights and shafts to maintain aerodynamic stability.
• Store Your Darts Properly: Store your darts in a dart case to protect them from damage and prevent them from being bent.

By taking care of your darts, you can ensure that they continue to perform at their best for years to come. It’s also important to consider the Tungsten Darts Pros Cons before purchasing.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for You

Ultimately, the choice between 80 vs 90 tungsten darts depends on your individual preferences, skill level, and budget. 80% tungsten darts offer a great balance of performance and affordability, making them a popular choice for many players. 90% tungsten darts provide maximum density and a slimmer profile, offering a performance edge for experienced players who are willing to invest in higher-end equipment.

Experiment with different options, consider your throwing style, and choose the darts that feel most comfortable and promote accuracy. Remember, the best darts for you are the ones that help you improve your game and enjoy the sport. Now that you’ve explored the nuances of 80 vs 90 tungsten darts, take the next step and visit your local dart shop or browse online retailers to find the perfect set for your needs. Happy darting!

Dieter

Hi, I’m Dieter, and I created Dartcounter (Dartcounterapp.com). My motivation wasn’t being a darts expert – quite the opposite! When I first started playing, I loved the game but found keeping accurate scores and tracking stats difficult and distracting.
I figured I couldn’t be the only one struggling with this. So, I decided to build a solution: an easy-to-use application that everyone, no matter their experience level, could use to manage scoring effortlessly.
My goal for Dartcounter was simple: let the app handle the numbers – the scoring, the averages, the stats, even checkout suggestions – so players could focus purely on their throw and enjoying the game. It began as a way to solve my own beginner’s problem, and I’m thrilled it has grown into a helpful tool for the wider darts community.