Choosing the right set of darts is not only about weight. The shape of the barrel changes how the dart sits in your hand, where your fingers naturally locate and how easy it is to repeat the same grip. Two darts at the same weight can feel completely different if one is straight and the other is a compact bomb shape.
Straight or parallel dart barrels
A straight or parallel barrel keeps a fairly consistent diameter through most of its length. That gives you more freedom over where you grip the dart, which is one reason it is such a common and adaptable shape. It can work well for front, centre or rear grippers, although grip pattern and barrel length still matter.
A good example is the Red Dragon Sable 01, which uses a straight parallel 90% tungsten barrel with multiple grip zones.
Torpedo dart barrels
A torpedo barrel is fuller through part of the barrel and tapers towards one or both ends. This creates a clearer reference point in the hand and, depending on the design, can make the dart feel more forward weighted. Players with a front or centre grip often like this type of shape, but it is not a rule — what matters is whether the barrel helps you repeat the same grip and release.
Examples include the Red Dragon Sable 02, Target Redux 02 and Target Hydro 02.
Bomb dart barrels
Bomb barrels are generally shorter and fuller. They can feel compact and substantial in the fingers and give a very obvious reference point for grip placement. They can suit players who dislike long, slim barrels or want their fingers to locate in roughly the same place every throw.
The Red Dragon Sable 03 is a good example of a compact bomb-style 90% tungsten barrel.
What about tapered and scalloped darts?
Tapered darts narrow towards one end, while scalloped barrels include a recessed section designed to create a very distinct finger reference. Both can work well for players who want the barrel geometry itself to guide their grip, but they can feel restrictive if your natural grip does not line up with the intended section.
How to choose the right barrel shape
Start with where your fingers naturally sit rather than choosing a shape because it is popular. Think about whether you want freedom to move your grip along the barrel or a strong fixed reference point. Barrel length and diameter matter alongside weight, and weight distribution can make two darts marked at the same weight feel very different in the hand.
Throwing a few darts will usually tell you more than looking at a product photo. At NextGen Darts in Sheffield you can try before you buy across 90+ dart models, which makes it much easier to compare straight, torpedo, bomb and other barrel profiles side by side.
Getting help choosing your darts
James Thomas is a PDPA Official Darts Coach and JDC Level 1 Coach, so advice at NextGen Darts can take account of grip position, release and throwing style rather than simply recommending a popular set.
Browse all darts, Target darts or Red Dragon darts online, or visit the Sheffield shop to try different barrel shapes before you buy.