Dart barrel explained: shape, weight, grip and balance

Barrel Shapes: Straight, Torpedo and More

Straight Barrel

A Straight Barrel, also known as a Parallel Barrel, has a largely consistent diameter along its length. The barrel has no pronounced bulge or significant taper.

• Consistent shape across most of the barrel's length.
• Can be used with different grip positions.
• Thin Straight Barrels are well suited to tight groupings.
• A common and versatile shape for both beginners and experienced players.
• There is no pronounced natural grip point – finger position is determined more by the player.

Torpedo Barrel

A Torpedo Barrel is wider in one section of the barrel and tapers towards the ends. The exact shape can vary considerably from one model to another.

• Can create a clearly defined grip zone.
• Often feels more compact and substantial than a comparable Straight Barrel.
• Can be particularly interesting for players who prefer a defined grip position.
• The centre of gravity depends on the specific construction and is not in exactly the same position on every Torpedo barrel.

Parallel Barrel

Parallel is often used synonymously with Straight, or in a very similar sense. It generally refers to a barrel with a largely consistent width. However, manufacturers may use these terms differently.

Weight Distribution and Balance

In addition to the external shape, the position of the centre of gravity is an important characteristic of a dart. It describes where the weight is concentrated along the dart's longitudinal axis.

Front-loaded

With a front-loaded dart, a larger portion of the mass is located towards the front, closer to the point.

• The centre of gravity is further forward.
• Can be interesting for players who grip the dart towards the front.
• Depending on the throw and setup, can support a particular entry angle into the board.
• Often found in certain Torpedo, Bomb and Teardrop shapes.

Centre-balanced

With a centre-balanced dart, the centre of gravity is closer to the middle. This balance can feel particularly neutral and can be combined with different grip positions.

Rear-loaded

With a rear-loaded dart, more of the mass is located towards the rear of the barrel, closer to the shaft.

• The centre of gravity is further back.
• Can be interesting for certain grip positions and throwing styles.
• Its flight and entry behaviour differs from that of front-loaded barrels.
• The actual effect always depends on the complete setup and throwing technique.

Grip: Ring Grip and Knurled Grip

Grip describes the surface texture of the barrel and therefore how much resistance the fingers feel when holding and releasing the dart.

Ring Grip

With a Ring Grip, rings or grooves run around the barrel. The depth, width and spacing of the rings can vary considerably.

• A very common grip style.
• Provides clearly defined reference points for the fingers.
• Available with anything from very fine to strongly pronounced ring profiles.
• Can support a consistent grip.

Knurled Grip

Knurling creates a textured surface, often with a cross-hatched or diamond-shaped pattern.

• Often feels rougher and more textured than simple rings.
• Can provide additional grip.
• Depending on the design, it can range from very fine to highly aggressive.
• Is often combined with other grip styles.

However, a stronger grip is not automatically better. Too much texture can affect the release or feel uncomfortable on the fingers.

Other Important Barrel Terms

Dimensions

• Length: Dart barrels vary considerably in length. A longer barrel provides more surface area for the fingers, while a short barrel feels more compact.
• Diameter: The diameter depends on factors including weight, tungsten content, length and shape. A higher tungsten content generally allows for slimmer barrels at the same weight.
• Weight: Barrel weight, together with shape, length and balance, influences the overall feel of the dart.

Centre of Gravity (CoG)

The Centre of Gravity, or CoG, is the point at which the dart or barrel is balanced.

• The shape of the barrel influences the position of the centre of gravity.
• Front-loaded means the centre of gravity is further forward.
• Centre-balanced describes a centre of gravity closer to the middle.
• Rear-loaded means the centre of gravity is further back.

The centre of gravity influences how the dart aligns during flight and how it enters the board. When considering the complete dart, the shaft and flight must also be taken into account.

Barrel Shapes and Grip at a Glance

Which Barrel Is Right for Which Player?

There is no universally ideal combination of shape, balance and grip that works for every player. What matters is where you grip the dart and how you release it during the throw.

How to Find the Right Barrel

1. Determine your grip position: front, middle or rear of the barrel.
2. Choose a suitable weight: The weight should feel controlled and natural.
3. Choose a shape: Straight is a versatile starting point, while other shapes can specifically support certain grip zones.
4. Test the grip: Start with a medium grip if you do not yet have a clear preference.
5. Consider the complete setup: The shaft and flight change the balance and flight characteristics of the finished dart.