Choosing the right dart points is crucial for improving your game, as they directly impact dartboard grip, bounce-outs, and overall throwing consistency. This article will guide you through the different types of dart points, how to select the best ones for your style, and how to maintain them for optimal performance, ultimately helping you elevate your darts experience.
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Understanding Different Types of Dart Points
The world of dart points can seem complex at first, but understanding the basic types makes choosing the right ones much easier. Let’s explore the most common types and their characteristics:
- Smooth Points: These are the standard, most basic dart points. They offer a clean, consistent entry into the board.
- Grooved Points: Featuring horizontal or vertical grooves, these points are designed to provide enhanced grip on the dartboard. The grooves help the point “hold” better, reducing bounce-outs.
- Ringed Points: Similar to grooved points, but with deeper, more pronounced rings. These offer an even stronger grip and are favored by players who want maximum board contact.
- Textured Points: These dart points feature a roughened or knurled surface, providing excellent grip. They are particularly useful for players with a looser grip or those who struggle with slippage.
- Conversion Points: Designed to convert soft-tip darts for use on steel-tip boards. They are typically longer and heavier than standard steel-tip points.
- Moveable Points (Spring Loaded): These points are designed to absorb some of the impact when the dart hits the board, which helps to reduce bounce outs and potentially improve the longevity of your board.
When choosing between these types, consider your grip style, the type of dartboard you use, and your personal preferences. Experimenting with different dart points is the best way to find what works best for you. Remember to check darts news today for the latest trends.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Dart Points
Beyond the basic types, several other factors influence the suitability of dart points for your game. These include:
Point Length
Point length is a crucial factor. Shorter points (around 25mm) tend to enter the board more vertically, while longer points (around 32mm) can provide a more stable trajectory. Experiment to see which length suits your throwing style. Shorter points can also reduce the risk of deflections, while longer points might offer a better grip within the board.
Point Material
Most dart points are made from steel, but the specific grade of steel can vary. High-quality steel points are more durable and resistant to bending or breaking. Some points also have coatings, such as titanium or black oxide, which can enhance grip, durability, or aesthetics.
Point Weight
While not a primary consideration, the weight of your dart points can subtly affect the overall balance of your dart. Heavier points can shift the center of gravity forward, which some players find improves their accuracy. This might be something to consider if you are playing darts pro.
Point Grip
As mentioned earlier, the grip of your dart points is crucial. Different textures and patterns offer varying levels of grip. Consider your throwing style and how much “hold” you want on the board when selecting dart points. Some players prefer a very aggressive grip, while others prefer a smoother feel.
Installing and Maintaining Your Dart Points
Proper installation and maintenance are essential for maximizing the lifespan and performance of your dart points.
Installing New Points
Installing new dart points requires a specialized tool called a dart point removal tool and a dart point repointing tool (or a vise). The removal tool is used to safely extract the old points, while the repointing tool is used to insert the new points securely and flush with the dart barrel. It’s essential to use the right tools to avoid damaging your darts.
- Secure the dart in the repointing tool or vise, ensuring it is held firmly but not crushed.
- Use the removal tool to carefully pull out the old point. Apply steady pressure and avoid twisting, which can damage the dart barrel.
- Clean the point socket with a cotton swab or brush to remove any debris.
- Insert the new point into the socket.
- Use the repointing tool to press the point firmly into place until it is flush with the barrel.
Maintaining Your Points
Regular maintenance will keep your dart points in top condition. Here are some tips:
- Sharpening: Over time, dart points can become dull, leading to increased bounce-outs. Use a dart sharpener to restore the point’s sharpness. Be careful not to over-sharpen, as this can create a burr that damages the dartboard.
- Cleaning: Clean your dart points regularly with a cloth or brush to remove dirt and debris. This helps maintain their grip and prevent them from damaging the dartboard.
- Straightening: If your dart points become bent, use a dart straightening tool or pliers to carefully straighten them. Bent points can affect the dart’s trajectory and increase the risk of bounce-outs.
- Replacing: Even with proper maintenance, dart points will eventually wear out. Replace them when they become excessively dull, bent, or damaged. Consider purchasing a darts stand kit for easy storage of your darts and accessories.
Advanced Techniques and Customization
For serious dart players, advanced techniques and customization options can further optimize the performance of their dart points.
Point Tipping
Point tipping involves slightly roughening the very tip of the dart points to create a microscopic “hook” that enhances grip. This can be done with a fine file or sandpaper. However, be extremely careful not to overdo it, as excessive tipping can damage the dartboard.
Using Point Retainers
Point retainers are small rubber or plastic rings that are placed around the base of the dart points. They help to keep the points securely in the board and reduce the risk of bounce-outs. They also help to absorb some of the impact, potentially extending the lifespan of your dartboard. Use a Dart Counter App to keep track of your scores.
Experimenting with Different Grips
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different grips on your dart points. Try different textures, patterns, and coatings to find what feels best for you. Consider how the grip affects your release and the overall feel of the dart in your hand.
Troubleshooting Common Dart Point Problems
Even with the best care, you may encounter some common problems with your dart points. Here’s how to troubleshoot them:
Excessive Bounce-Outs
If you’re experiencing excessive bounce-outs, the first thing to check is the sharpness of your dart points. Dull points are a major cause of bounce-outs. Sharpen your points regularly and consider using point retainers. Also, ensure you’re using the correct type of board; a worn-out board can also contribute to bounce-outs. Check for details on the single dart skirt options available, which help protect the area around your board.
Points Breaking
If your dart points are breaking frequently, it could be due to poor-quality points or excessive force when throwing. Invest in higher-quality points made from durable steel. Also, consider adjusting your throwing technique to reduce the impact on the board. Ensure you are not hitting the wire too often.
Points Bending
Bending is a common problem, especially with softer steel points. Use a dart straightening tool to carefully straighten bent points. If bending is a recurring issue, consider switching to harder steel points or using point retainers to provide additional support. Also, consider factors such as the consistency of the board material you are throwing at.
Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Dart Points for Your Game
Choosing the right dart points is a personal journey, but understanding the different types, materials, and maintenance techniques will significantly improve your game. Experiment with different options, pay attention to how they feel in your hand and on the board, and don’t be afraid to customize them to suit your individual style. By investing in quality dart points and taking care of them properly, you’ll enjoy more consistent throws, fewer bounce-outs, and an overall more enjoyable darts experience. Take the time to find the best dart points for your needs, and you’ll be well on your way to hitting more 180s. Remember that proper setup will help, so research the proper setup in Dartford.
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.