Dart shafts are a crucial component of any dart setup. They determine the stability, accuracy, and flight of the dart. With so many options available on the market, it can be difficult to choose the best dart shaft for your game. In this guide, we will explore the top dart shafts of 2023, their features, pros, and cons, to help you make an informed decision.
Types of Dart Shafts – ALUMINUM AND PLASTIC
When it comes to dart shafts, two popular options are aluminum and plastic. Aluminum shafts are lightweight and durable, providing consistent performance. They are ideal for players looking for greater accuracy and control. On the other hand, plastic shafts are more budget-friendly and come in a variety of colors and styles. They are lighter than aluminum shafts and offer more flexibility. Ultimately, the choice between aluminum and plastic dart shafts depends on your personal preferences and playing style.
Which Dart Shaft Should You Buy?
Choosing the right dart shaft can greatly enhance your game. It is important to consider factors such as material, length, weight, and grip. Aluminum shafts are recommended for players seeking precision and stability, while plastic shafts are suitable for those looking for versatility and affordability. Additionally, the length and weight of the shaft should be selected based on your throwing style. Experimenting with different shafts can help you find the perfect fit for your game.
Top 5 Best Dart Shafts in 2023
1. Red Dragon DRX Orange Coated Aluminium Medium Shafts
RED DRAGON DRX Coated Aluminium Medium Orange Logo Dart Stems (Shafts) - 2 sets per pack (6 Stems in total)
User reviews
Cheap to buy. Arrived very promptly, will use again
Nice stems. The stems stand out on my darts and they look good on my darts.
Quantity. Good quality but was expecting 6 stems for my 2 sets of darts but only 5 in the pack
Excellent stems. I'm no darts expert but these are much better than the plastic ones which came with my darts, the flights have not came off once while I have been using these and I have probably had 10 games. It might be fluke or good design but there is a little bit of paint carryover onto the threads for screwing them in this makes screwing them in a little more difficult than it should be but it also acts as anti loosening and I have had no instances of vibrating loose I have to mark this as 5 stars
Exactly as described. Lightweight, easy to fit.
Can’t count. A pack of 2 sets but only had 5 in the bag apart from that good quality. More attention needed would of been 5 stars if they could count
Good. Good quality
Worth the money. Threads needed a little cleaning up but good stems
These aluminum shafts are designed for ultimate performance and durability. They feature a medium length and a vibrant orange coating for enhanced aesthetics. With a solid grip and excellent balance, these shafts are perfect for players who seek accuracy and consistency.
Features:
- Aluminum construction
- Medium length
- Orange coating
Pros:
- Excellent grip
- Durable and long-lasting
- A wide range of colors is available
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other shafts
- Limited availability
2. Viper Spinster Aluminum Dart Shaft
These aluminum shafts from Viper are known for their unique spinning feature. The rotating top helps to reduce deflections, providing a more accurate and consistent throw. The lightweight construction and medium length make them suitable for players of all skill levels.
Features:
- Aluminum construction
- Spinning top
- Medium length
Pros:
- The spinning feature reduces deflections
- Good balance and stability
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Some players may find the spinning top distracting
- Not as durable as other shafts
3. Target Darts 3 x Sets of Black Pro Grip Shaft Short
Target Darts 3 x Sets of Black Pro Grip Dart Stems Short - 9 Dart Shafts in Total
User reviews
Dart stems. Excellent quality and excellent value 👌
Decent for the price. Decent for the price, and work well.
Excellent shafts. Love these shafts, excellent value for money and extremely durable. Have had to robin hooded them a few times just to get them to break which is unbelievable quality compared to other shafts which broke at the first time of doing so.
Shafts. Do what they're supposed to do!
Good. Good
Unscrew easily. These are a good value for money set of stems.I mainly use my Rob Cross Black Editions and these stems just unscrew way too frequently for me and therefore affect my throwing consistency.I prefer the target Phil Taylor Gen8 stems with the O rings that lock in the stems - had no issues with these yet and the tips can be changed if you Robin Hood them!
Good. Used for darts just like pictures.
OK irenaeus. Do there job
Target Darts offers a set of black Pro Grip shafts that are designed for enhanced grip and control. The short length makes them ideal for players who prefer a compact dart setup. With a unique groove pattern, these shafts deliver exceptional handling and accuracy.
Features:
- Plastic construction
- Short length
- Pro Grip for better control
Pros:
- Excellent grip and control
- Multiple shafts in a set
- Affordable option
Cons:
- Not as durable as aluminum shafts
- May require more frequent replacements
4. RED DRAGON Laser Etched Aluminium Medium Dart Shafts
RED DRAGON Laser Etched Aluminium Medium Black Dart Shafts - 4 Sets Per Pack (12 Shafts in Total)
User reviews
Good value for money. They fit the bill, they arrived early and were just as we expected from the description, Unbreakable not like the plastic ones we were using previously.(our darts don't always stay in the board! (Amateurs)
good quality, good value darts shafts. these are good quality shafts, have been after some metal ones for a little while and these arrived yesterday, the reason ive not rated them five star is because they sometimes rattle a little bit however ive only used them on a couple of occasions and ive been pleased so far, cant go wrong 4 sets for a fiver!
12 of them. In total 12 aluminium stems won't need to buy anymore for a while I'm guessing..Good thing I decided to buy them as they don't cost much and the Red Dragon Razor edge darts don't come with any spare stems or flights at all...
Nice but flawed. The weight and length of these is perfect for me however, as other reviews have suggested, they become loose very easily. I found myself rescrewing them after nearly every throw which is quite distracting. Perhaps a rubber washer would help to prevent this but I have yet to try.
Good shafts. They're well made, look great and do just what they should.Why buy anything else really (oh I did but returned back to these).
Strong stems. Standard red dragon medium stems. Fyi. Should buy small rubber rings to fit on thread to stop them loosening on the dart in flight
Good, but loosen too easily. I like these. I use light weight darts, but these add just enough weight to make them perfect for me.But, they loosen on every throw. I’ve had to use a little loctite on them. They’re perfect now.
Value for money. Quick delivery. Only thing to be aware of is that it is quite difficult/ delicate to attach the flights. Good price 👍
These medium-length aluminum shafts from RED DRAGON feature laser-etched designs for added style. They offer a sturdy grip and reliable performance. The laser-etched patterns provide extra texture and control, making them suitable for players who prioritize a comfortable grip.
Features:
- Aluminum construction
- Medium length
- Laser etched designs
Pros:
- Unique and stylish designs
- Good grip and stability
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
- May be slightly heavier than other shafts
- Higher price point
5. UNICORN Dart Shafts
Unicorn Dart Shafts | Gripper 4 Mirage | Durable Polycarbonate | Medium 41mm | Black | 15 Stems
User reviews
Excellent. Excellent dart stems, thank you very much, *****.
Good stem but break too easy. Didn't dislike them at all but keep snapping them
Mr M. Brilliant steams strong and hold the flight tight
Don't grip flight very well. Called gripper but don't grip very well, I have used gripper before but these seemed to have changed design, end is more rounder and spring is not so good. I see these are called gripper 4 so I must have used before an older version, 3 maybe. You would think newer is better. Not in this case. In picture new type on right and 2 older versions that did grip on left.
Dart. Good product
Screw wouldn’t fit dart. The screw in part was far too small to fit standard darts, thought all shafts were the same size, in the bin!!
Poor. Tried these as they were Unicorn and a well established brand. They did grip the flight well and stayed tight to the barrel too but they constantly break at the flight end. I do expect a bit of damage over time, that’s normal, but these were just snapping at seemingly every contact with another dart. I bought the large quantity pack thinking they’d last for ages but I was changing one out every time I played and got through them in no time.Maybe I just got a dodgy batch but these were very poor and I didnt replace them with the same product.Expected a bit more durability from a Unicorn shaft.
Ideal for me. I prefer a shorter dart shift and these are just ideal. I think it makes the darts more precise, obviously my opinion.
UNICORN offers a range of dart shafts suitable for players of all levels. Their shafts are available in different materials, lengths, and styles to cater to individual preferences. UNICORN shafts provide consistent performance and are known for their durability and versatility.
Features:
- Various materials and lengths available
- Durable and versatile
Pros:
- Wide range of options to choose from
- High-quality construction
- Suitable for all skill levels
Cons:
- Some styles may not be readily available in certain regions
- Price may vary based on material and style
Buyer’s Guide to Choosing the Best Dart Shafts
When selecting the best dart shaft for your game, consider the following factors:
- Material: Decide between aluminum and plastic shafts based on your preferences for weight, durability, and performance.
- Length: Consider your throwing style and comfort level to choose between short, medium, or long shafts.
- Weight: Experiment with different weights to find the right balance for your throwing technique.
- Grip: Look for shafts with textured or grooved surfaces for enhanced grip and control.
- Budget: Determine your budget and choose shafts that offer the best value for your money.
Conclusion
Choosing the best dart shaft is essential for improving your game and achieving consistent performance. Whether you prefer aluminum or plastic shafts, there are plenty of options available in the market. Consider factors such as material, length, grip, and budget to find the perfect dart shaft for your playing style. Investing in a high-quality dart shaft can greatly enhance your accuracy, control, and overall enjoyment of the game.
FAQ
Q: Are aluminum dart shafts better than plastic ones?
A: It depends on personal preference. Aluminum shafts offer greater stability and accuracy, while plastic shafts provide more flexibility and affordability.
Q: Can I mix and match different dart shafts with my darts?
A: Yes, you can mix and match shafts with your darts. Experimenting with different combinations can help you find the ideal setup for your game.
Q: How often should I replace my dart shaft?
A: The lifespan of a dart shaft depends on factors such as usage and material. Plastic shafts may require more frequent replacements compared to aluminum shafts. It is recommended to inspect your shaft regularly for any signs of wear and tear.
