Straight Barrel Darts

What Is a Straight Barrel Dart?

Straight barrel darts have a consistent diameter throughout the length of the barrel. They are commonly manufactured from 90% tungsten, which is considered the standard for premium darts. While every straight barrel follows the same basic profile, they can still vary greatly in balance point, nose shape, barrel length and diameter.

Straight barrel darts are generally more versatile and beginner friendly than bomb, scalloped or torpedo barrel designs. However, a straight barrel does not necessarily mean the dart is evenly balanced. Many straight barrel darts are designed with either a front or rear weighted balance to suit different throwing styles.

Common Straight Barrel Grip Styles

The shape of a straight barrel has no effect on how much grip it provides. Grip levels are determined entirely by the machining pattern used on the barrel.

Knurled barrels offer one of the smoothest grip styles available. Traditional single ring grip provides more traction, while dual ring grip offers even greater finger control. For players wanting maximum grip, advanced machining such as Target's Pixel Grip and other aggressively cut barrel designs create the highest levels of traction during release.

Whatever grip pattern you choose, make sure the grip is positioned where your fingers naturally rest on the barrel, as this plays an important role in achieving a smooth and consistent throw.

Straight Barrel Darts for Front, Middle and Rear Grippers

The most important factor when choosing straight barrel darts is selecting a grip pattern that matches your natural finger placement.

Front grippers should look for barrels with grip concentrated towards the nose of the dart. Middle grippers will usually benefit from grip positioned around the centre of the barrel, while rear grippers should choose barrels with grip towards the back.

Many straight barrel darts feature grip across the entire barrel, making them an excellent choice if you're still experimenting with your grip or are unsure exactly where you naturally hold the dart.

Long vs Short, Thick vs Slim Straight Barrels

Barrel length influences how a dart feels during the throw. Generally, the longer the barrel, the further back the balance point sits from the point, creating a longer overall feel in the hand. Shorter barrels feel more compact and are often preferred by players who like a quicker, more direct setup.

Barrel diameter also changes the feel of a dart. Thicker barrels provide a chunkier feel in the hand and are often associated with heavier darts, while slimmer barrels leave more room in the treble bed for tighter grouping. Neither is better than the other, it simply depends on your personal preference and throwing style.

How to Choose the Best Straight Barrel Dart

The best straight barrel dart is the one that feels the most comfortable in your hand. Choose a barrel with grip positioned where your fingers naturally rest, as this will help produce a smooth and repeatable release.

If you enjoy customising your setup, consider a dart with an interchangeable point system such as Swiss Point or Quick Point. Above all else, choose a barrel that feels comfortable to throw and one that gives you confidence every time you step up to the oche.

Straight Barrel Darts FAQs

Are straight barrel darts suitable for rear grippers?

Yes. Straight barrel darts are suitable for front, middle and rear grippers. The important thing is to choose a barrel with grip positioned where your fingers naturally make contact.

What is the best grip style for straight barrel darts?

There is no single best grip style, but dual ring grip, such as that found on the Harrows Supergrip range, is often considered one of the most versatile and beginner friendly grip patterns available.

Are straight barrel darts evenly balanced?

No. A straight barrel shape does not determine the balance of the dart. Straight barrel darts can be front weighted, centre balanced or rear weighted depending on how they are designed.