Choosing which dartboard to buy depends heavily on your budget, skill level, and intended use. This article guides you through selecting the perfect dartboard, covering everything from materials and types to features and setup, so you can make an informed decision.
⚠️ Still Using Pen & Paper (or a Chalkboard)?! ⚠️
Step into the future! The Dart Counter App handles all the scoring, suggests checkouts, and tracks your stats automatically. It's easier than you think!
Try the Smart Dart Counter App FREE!Ready for an upgrade? Click above!
Understanding Your Dartboard Needs
Before diving into the specifics of which dartboard to buy, take a moment to consider your individual needs. Are you a casual player, a serious enthusiast, or buying for a games room frequented by various skill levels? Understanding your primary use case will significantly narrow down your options.
Here are some initial questions to ask yourself:
- Skill Level: Are you a beginner, intermediate, or professional?
- Frequency of Use: How often will you be playing darts? Daily, weekly, or occasionally?
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a dartboard?
- Playing Environment: Where will the dartboard be located? Will it be exposed to moisture or temperature fluctuations?
- Desired Features: Do you need a self-healing board, a tournament-approved board, or a board with integrated scoring?
Types of Dartboards: A Comprehensive Overview
There are several types of dartboards available, each with its own unique characteristics and suitability for different players. The most common types include:
Bristle Dartboards
Bristle dartboards are the standard for professional play and are generally considered the best option for serious dart players. They are made from tightly packed sisal fibers, which allow the darts to easily penetrate the board and the holes to self-heal when the darts are removed.
Key Features of Bristle Dartboards:
- Self-Healing: The sisal fibers naturally close up after being punctured, extending the life of the board.
- Durability: Bristle dartboards are typically very durable and can withstand a lot of use.
- Regulation Size: Most bristle dartboards conform to the regulation size specifications of 17.75 inches in diameter.
- Spider: The spider, the metal wiring that separates the scoring segments, can be made of round wire, triangular wire, or blade wire (the thinnest and most preferred). A thinner spider minimizes bounce-outs.
When considering a bristle dartboard, look for high-quality sisal, a thin spider (preferably blade wire), and a sturdy construction.
Electronic Dartboards
Electronic dartboards are popular for recreational players and families. They feature plastic segments with small holes that the darts penetrate. An electronic scoring system automatically calculates the score and displays it on a digital screen.
Key Features of Electronic Dartboards:
- Automatic Scoring: Eliminates the need for manual scorekeeping.
- Game Variety: Often include a wide range of pre-programmed games.
- Safety: Typically used with soft-tip darts, which are safer than steel-tip darts.
- Sound Effects: Many electronic dartboards feature sound effects and voice prompts.
When selecting an electronic dartboard, consider the number of players it supports, the variety of games offered, and the durability of the plastic segments. Also, ensure you purchase high-quality soft-tip darts for optimal performance.
Paper Dartboards
Paper dartboards are the most affordable option and are typically made from rolled paper. They are suitable for casual play and are not as durable as bristle or electronic dartboards.
Key Features of Paper Dartboards:
- Affordability: The least expensive type of dartboard.
- Lightweight: Easy to transport and set up.
- Suitable for Beginners: A good option for those just starting out.
Due to their limited lifespan and lower quality, paper dartboards are not recommended for serious players.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dartboard
Beyond the type of dartboard, several other factors can influence your decision. These include:
Material Quality and Durability
The material quality is crucial for the longevity of your dartboard. For bristle dartboards, look for high-density sisal fibers that are tightly packed. For electronic dartboards, consider the quality of the plastic segments and the overall construction.
Durability is also important, especially if you plan to use the dartboard frequently. A well-made dartboard should be able to withstand regular use without significant wear and tear.
Spider Design
The spider, or the metal wiring that separates the scoring segments, plays a significant role in reducing bounce-outs. Thinner spiders, such as those made from blade wire, offer a larger scoring area and are less likely to deflect darts.
Consider a dartboard with a staple-free bullseye to further minimize bounce-outs and increase scoring potential. A staple-free bullseye also extends the life of the board because it prevents excessive wear and tear in the center.
Scoring System
The scoring system is another important consideration. Electronic dartboards feature automatic scoring, which can be convenient for casual players. However, some players prefer the traditional method of manual scorekeeping.
If you opt for a bristle dartboard, you will need to keep score manually or use a darts scoreboard app. Darts scoreboard app are available for both iOS and Android devices and can help you track your scores, stats, and progress.
Budget
Your budget will also play a significant role in determining which dartboard to buy. Paper dartboards are the most affordable, while high-quality bristle dartboards can be more expensive. Electronic dartboards typically fall in between.
Consider your budget and prioritize the features that are most important to you. It’s often better to invest in a higher-quality dartboard that will last longer than to opt for a cheaper option that will need to be replaced sooner.
Safety
Safety is paramount, especially if you have children or pets. If you are using steel-tip darts, ensure that the surrounding area is protected with a dartboard surround. Soft-tip darts are generally safer, but it’s still important to exercise caution.
Setting Up Your Dartboard
Proper setup is crucial for both performance and safety. Follow these steps to ensure your dartboard is correctly installed:
Mounting Height and Distance
The official mounting height for a dartboard is 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) from the floor to the center of the bullseye. The throwing distance, or the oche, is 7 feet 9.25 inches (2.37 meters) from the face of the dartboard to the throwing line.
Accurate measurements are essential for fair play and consistent performance. Use a measuring tape and a level to ensure that your dartboard is properly mounted.
Dartboard Surround
A dartboard surround is a protective barrier that surrounds the dartboard and protects the wall from stray darts. It also helps to prevent bounce-outs from damaging the darts or the surrounding area.
Dartboard surrounds are available in various materials, including foam, rubber, and wood. Choose a surround that is durable, easy to clean, and complements the décor of your playing area.
Lighting
Proper lighting is essential for clear visibility and accurate aiming. Install a dartboard lighting system that provides even illumination across the entire surface of the dartboard.
There are several types of dartboard lighting systems available, including overhead lights, side lights, and halo lights. Choose a system that provides adequate brightness and minimizes shadows.
Dartboard Cabinets
A dartboard cabinet not only protects your wall but also adds a touch of elegance to your gaming area. Cabinets usually come with scoreboards and dart holders.
When choosing a cabinet, consider the style, material, and size. Make sure it fits your dartboard and provides enough space for accessories. A cabinet can significantly enhance the overall dart-playing experience.
Steel Tip vs Soft Tip Darts
One element of which dartboard to buy depends on which type of darts you want to throw.
- Steel tip darts are generally used with bristle dartboards. The steel tip allows the dart to penetrate the tightly packed sisal fibers.
- Soft tip darts are designed for electronic dartboards. The plastic tip is designed to register on the board’s electronic sensors, and the use of steel tip darts can damage the board.
If you plan to play in professional tournaments, steel tip darts are the standard. However, soft tip darts are a safer and more convenient option for casual play, especially for children. Furthermore, you can research “darts how to stand” in order to perfect your dart throwing.
You can also find “darts how to practice doubles” online if you want to improve your game.
Maintaining Your Dartboard
Proper maintenance can extend the life of your dartboard and ensure optimal performance. Here are some tips for maintaining your dartboard:
Rotating Your Dartboard
Rotating your dartboard regularly can help to distribute wear evenly and prevent certain segments from becoming overly worn. Rotate the dartboard by a few segments every few weeks.
This simple practice can significantly extend the life of your dartboard, especially if you tend to target specific areas, such as the 20 segment.
Cleaning Your Dartboard
Cleaning your dartboard can help to remove dust, dirt, and debris that can accumulate over time. Use a soft brush or cloth to gently wipe down the surface of the dartboard.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents, as these can damage the dartboard. A damp cloth is usually sufficient for cleaning.
Removing Broken Dart Tips
If a dart tip breaks off inside the dartboard, use a pair of pliers or a dart tool to carefully remove it. Avoid using excessive force, as this can damage the dartboard.
Consider using dart points with removable tips to make this process easier.
Conclusion
Choosing which dartboard to buy involves considering your skill level, budget, and intended use. Bristle dartboards are ideal for serious players, while electronic dartboards are a great option for recreational use. Proper setup and maintenance are crucial for both performance and safety. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can make an informed decision and enjoy years of dart-playing fun. Now that you know which dartboard to buy, find the perfect one for your needs and start improving your game! For more insight into professional darts, you might find “where are darts played” interesting.
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.