Our Tips for Choosing the Right Dart Weight as a Beginner
One of the most common questions we hear from new players is: What weight darts should I use?
If you're just getting started with steel tip darts, choosing the right dart weight can make a big difference to your comfort, consistency, and confidence at the oche.
The good news is that there isn't one perfect dart weight for everyone. The best choice depends on your throwing style, natural rhythm, and personal preference. In this guide, we'll explain the most common dart weights, who they suit, and where we recommend beginners start.
Quick Navigation
- Why Dart Weight Matters
- Beginner Dart Weight Chart
- Best Weight for Most Beginners
- Heavy vs Light Darts
- How to Find Your Ideal Weight
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Dart Weight Matters
The weight of a dart affects how it travels through the air and how much effort is required to throw it consistently.
Lighter darts generally require a slightly quicker throw and can suit players with a faster action. Heavier darts tend to feel more stable in the hand and often suit players with a smoother, more controlled throw.
For beginners, the goal isn't to find the heaviest or lightest dart available. It's about finding a weight that feels natural and repeatable.
Steel Tip Dart Weight Guide for Beginners
| Dart Weight | Who It May Suit | Our Thoughts |
|---|---|---|
| 18g - 20g | Players with a quicker throwing action | Less common in steel tip for beginners |
| 21g - 22g | Most beginners | Excellent starting point |
| 23g - 24g | Players who prefer extra stability | Very popular choice |
| 25g - 26g | Smooth throwers who like heavier darts | Can help reduce over-throwing |
| 27g+ | Experienced players with specific preferences | Usually not where we'd recommend beginners start |
What Weight Darts Do We Recommend for Beginners?
In our opinion, most beginner players should start with a set between 22g and 24g.
This weight range offers a good balance between control, stability, and ease of throwing. It also happens to be one of the most popular weight ranges used by recreational and competitive players alike.
If you're completely unsure where to start, a 23g steel tip dart is often the safest choice.
Heavy vs Light Darts
Lighter Darts
- Can feel faster through the air
- Often suit quicker throwers
- May require more precision in the release
- Can encourage a more aggressive throw
Heavier Darts
- Often feel more stable
- Can suit a slower, smoother throwing action
- Require less force to reach the board
- May help some beginners improve consistency
Neither option is automatically better. The right choice is whichever weight allows you to throw comfortably and repeat your action consistently.
How to Find Your Ideal Dart Weight
If possible, try a few different weights before committing to one set.
We generally recommend:
- Start with a 22g, 23g, or 24g dart.
- Play several sessions before making changes.
- If your darts regularly fall below the target, try a slightly heavier weight.
- If your darts feel slow or cumbersome, try a slightly lighter weight.
- Focus on consistency rather than chasing the perfect setup immediately.
Many players spend years refining their setup, so don't worry if your first set isn't your forever set.
Our Recommendation
For most new steel tip players, we'd recommend starting with a straight barrel dart in either 22g, 23g, or 24g. These weights provide a balanced feel and allow you to develop a repeatable throwing action without fighting the dart.
As your game develops, you'll naturally learn whether you prefer something lighter, heavier, smoother, or grippier.
If you're looking for beginner-friendly darts, browse our range of darts and explore different weights to discover what feels best in your hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What weight dart do most beginners use?
Most beginners start with darts between 22g and 24g because they offer a balanced combination of control and stability.
Are heavier darts easier to throw?
Some players find heavier darts easier because they require less force to reach the board. However, comfort and consistency are more important than weight alone.
Is 23g a good dart weight?
Yes. In our opinion, 23g is one of the best all-round starting weights for steel tip players.
Should beginners use 26g darts?
Some beginners enjoy heavier darts, but we usually recommend trying 22g to 24g first before moving into heavier weights.
Do professional dart players use heavy darts?
Professional players use a wide range of weights. Many compete with darts between 21g and 25g, showing that success comes down to personal preference.
Can changing dart weight improve my accuracy?
It can help if your current setup feels uncomfortable, but regular practice and a repeatable throwing action are usually more important factors.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right dart weight doesn't need to be complicated. For most beginners, starting with a 22g to 24g steel tip dart is a sensible approach that provides a solid foundation for improvement.
As you gain experience, you'll develop your own preferences regarding weight, grip, barrel shape, and balance. Until then, focus on enjoying the game and building consistency.
For more beginner guides, equipment advice, and darting tips, keep checking back with Universal Darts.
