What weight darts should I use?
For steel tip, start between 22 and 24 g: 76% of the 139 darts in the DartFit catalogue are in that range and the median is 23 g. A flat, fast throw often suits a slightly heavier dart; an arcing throw a slightly lighter one. Your current dart is the best clue: if it feels too light or too heavy, move about 2 g.
How heavy are most darts?
| Weight | |
|---|---|
| Lightest | 18 g |
| Quarter of darts up to | 22 g |
| Median | 23 g |
| Three quarters up to | 24 g |
| Heaviest | 26 g |
What changes the right weight for you?
- How the dart flies: a flat, direct throw tends to suit a little more weight; a high arc a little less.
- Your hand: larger hands often handle a little more weight; the effect is small.
- Your current dart: if it feels too light or too heavy, the next one should be about 2 g heavier or lighter.
- Fatigue: if your arm tires in long sessions, go lighter.
Heavy or light darts: which is better?
Neither. Heavier darts fly more steadily and resist small errors, but take more effort. Lighter darts need a more precise release. The right weight is the one you can throw the same way all evening.
Why tungsten percentage matters for weight
Tungsten is very dense, so more tungsten means a slimmer barrel at the same weight. 90% tungsten is the standard (79% of our catalogue); 95% lets a heavy dart stay slim. Brass darts are cheaper but much thicker for the same weight.
Frequently asked questions
What weight dart should a beginner use?
About 22 to 24 g in steel tip. It is the middle of the market and forgiving while you find your grip.
Are 18 g darts too light?
Not if they suit your throw. Light darts suit a fast, precise release; most players start heavier.
What is the maximum weight of a steel-tip dart?
Under the rules most tournaments use, a steel-tip dart may weigh up to 50 g, but almost all darts sold are between 18 and 30 g.
Last updated: · DartFit