The great thing about darts is the low barrier to entry. All you need is a dartboard and some darts, and you’re good to go. You can even share a set of darts between multiple people if need be.
A decent set of darts can be bought for not very much money at all, but as with most sports, better equipment can make you a better player. It can increase your performance and consistency. So we set out to find, what darts do the pros use?
The pros use darts that suit their style of play. Weight, Length, shape, and grip type are all personal preference. The darts used varies depending on the pro.
While a good dart can help your game, it is essential to understand that what works for one player may not work for another.
We’ve created a list of the top dart players in the PDC and discuss the darts they use as well as their characteristics. Hopefully, this article will help you to find your next set of darts!
Table of Contents
Luke Humphries
Luke Humphries, aka “Cool Hand Luke,” has made a significant impact on the PDC circuit recently. Rising through the ranks with his impressive performances, he has quickly established himself as one of the top players in the sport. Humphries has achieved notable success, starting with his PDC World Youth Championship win and now carrying on to all major tournaments.
What darts does Luke Humphries use?
Luke Humphries uses the Red Dragon Luke Humphries TX series darts. These are a 22-gram front-weighted dart made of 90% tungsten.
- Set of 3 x 22 Gram - 90% premium quality Red Dragon tungsten darts
- Profiled to match Luke’s style of throw and release these multiple ring grip torpedo profile barrels allow a front weighted feel with mid-level grip
- HARDCORE Standard shape flights offer superior lift and the least drag to weight ratio for complete flight control and long life durability
- Fitted with World Class Low Torque NITRO-TECH Ultra Shafts, made from modern polymer construction with aluminium flight locking and anti-deflection design for the tightest dispersion
Luke Littler
Luke Littler came out of nowhere and shocked the world. Although still early in his career, Littler has already shown promise with his performances in various youth and development tournaments and is now on the main stage. Many believe him to be the future of darts.
What darts does Luke Littler use?
Littler throws darts from Target. They have a very unique grip and come with Swiss Points. Due to the recent success of Luke Littler, these are the hottest things on the market right now.
- LUKE LITTLE PLAYER EDITION: Designed in collaboration with Luke “The Nuke” to his exact requirements and specifications, used during the World PDC Dart Championships 2024.
- 90% TUNGSTEN BARREL WITH LIFETIME GUARANTEE: High-quality 90% Tungsten, featuring a combination of precision milling, radial grooves and finished with a black PVD performance coating. The 22g barrel is 50mm in length, with a diameter of 6.5mm. For complete peace of mind, all Target Darts barrels come with a lifetime guarantee.
- SWISS POINT DART TECHNOLOGY: The 26mm Black Swiss Point introduces innovative technology with its patented locking system, allowing for effortless switching of dart points with the SP tool. The taper and thread technology secure points in place, providing stability and precision during play, also allowing you to remove broken points in seconds.
- PRO GRIP SHAFTS & PRO ULTRA FLIGHTS: The Pro Grip Shaft is specially moulded for seamless lead-in, ensures excellent flight gripping strength and minimizes fallouts. Crafted from a durable nylon compound, it includes a nib for easy flight insertion. The set is completed with Luke’s signature No.2 Flights, designed for enhanced flight-to-shaft grip with spot UV print, offering exceptional durability for all players and dart play styles.
Michael van Gerwen
MVG is currently ranked as the best player in the world, and he shows no signs of slowing down. He says he has used the same darts for years. If you look back, there does appear to be some slight changes, but the overall style and feel of the barrel have remained the same.
What darts does Michael van Gerwen use?
Michael van Gerwen currently uses 23 gram XQ Max Darts. They are a pencil-thin dart that have a heavily milled barrel with a smooth patch near the middle.
- Set of 3 x 24g - 80% premium quality Winmau tungsten steeltip darts set
- Winmau Nylon shafts & Winmau Prism Delta flights
- High end MvG point protector
- Created specifically for the modern throw to provide effortless rhythm and power
Peter Wright
Peter Wright is a Scottish professional who just won the 2020 World Darts Championship after beating MVG in a tremendous final round. Equipped with an ever-changing Mohawk and Nicknamed Snakebite, Peter is always fun to watch on stage. He had a good year, and I hope he keeps it up.
What darts does Peter Wright use?
Peter Wright uses 22 gram Red Dragons with his namesake. The Snakebite Mambas darts are pencil-shaped with a grooved front and center. While you can get them plain in color, most are painted with a bright and colorful finish (often rainbow)
- Set of 3 x 22g - 90% premium quality Red Dragon tungsten darts
- Red Dragon stems - designs may vary
- Snakebite Hardcore flights
- Peter said "I love this shape dart and the feeling that the black coating gives me is superb and really helps me up on stage to get that extra confidence"
Nathan Aspinall
The ASP Nathan Aspinall is a prominent figure in the world of professional darts. The English-born darts player has gained a reputation for his tenacity and skill on the oche. He has secured several high-profile wins, including the UK Open and even reaching the semi-finals of the PDC World Championship.
What darts does Nathan Aspinall use?
Aspinal’s darts have a medium grip and are well balanced but the ASP himself is currently throwing a 27g version of the dart. Much heavier than the average pro player is throwing.
- NATHAN ASPINALL PLAYER EDITION DART BUNDLE: Endorsed and created in collaboration with the “ASP”, the set of Tungsten dart barrels and radial groove contours, for added finger grip. For complete peace of mind, all Target Darts barrels come with a lifetime guarantee. Barrel Length: 52mm, Barrel Diameter: 7.4mm (24G).
- PRO GRIP SHAFTS & PRO ULTRA FLIGHTS: This comprehensive dart kit includes 6x Short Pro Grip Shafts (34mm) and 9x Pro Ultra Flights (No.2 Shape). With 3 colour options, find the perfect dart aesthetic by personalising your setup.
- DARTCOUNTER APP: Enjoy access to the World’s Leading Darts Scoring App and player community, featuring John McDonald as your personal announcer. The app includes online camera play, and access to popular dart games, such as Cricket!
- POCKET SIZED DART WALLET: To keep your dart sets in one place, use the included slim profile wallet with extra space to store spare dart accessories, including flights and stems.
Dimitri Van den Bergh
The Dream Maker, Dimitri Van den Bergh is known for his smooth throwing style and flair. Van den Bergh’s career highlight so far is winning the World Matchplay but his charismatic personality and impressive skills have made him a fan favorite, and he continues to be a strong contender in every tournament he plays in.
What darts does Dimitri Van den Bergh use?
Dimitri is throwing 23g Target darts with a grooved grip along the majority of their straight barrel. This particular version comes with Swiss Points. Although the included points are just as beautiful as the barrels.
- Player Endorsed - Created and developed by Dimitri Van den Bergh the ‘Dream Maker’ to his exact requirements
Dave Chisnall
Dave “Chizzy” Chisnall, is a well-experienced darts player from England who has been a mainstay in the PDC circuit for years. Chisnall has consistently been a top performer known for his powerful scoring ability and high checkouts. He has reached multiple major finals, including the World Grand Prix and the Players Championship Finals
What darts does Dave Chisnall use?
Chizzy currently uses 22g darts from Harrows. They are super grippy with their straight-cut grooves along the barrel and are painted with highlights of his signature black and yellow.
- 51mm parallel barrel, divided into three distinctive zones
- Double shark grip covers the front and rear of the barrel
- The barrel is finished with five vibrant coloured rings
- Fitted with Black Midi Supergrip shafts
Jonny Clayton
Jonny Clayton, also known as “The Ferret,” is a Welsh professional darts player who has bounced to the top over the last few years. While his career highlight was winning the Masters and the Premier League, he continues to compete at the highest level.
What darts does Jonny Clayton use?
Jonny Clayton uses 22g Red Dragon darts. They are a narrow dart with a tapered end. Much like Van den Bergh’s darts, the grooving goes all the way to the tip. Perfect for a front gripper.
- Jonny Clayton Original 2.0 22 Gram Premium Tungsten Steeltip Darts Set
- Fitted with World Class Low Torque NITRO-TECH Ultra Shafts, made from modern polymer construction with aluminium flight locking and anti-deflection design for the tightest dispersion
- HARDCORE Standard shape flights offer superior lift and the least drag to weight ratio for complete flight control and long life durability
- Jonny's latest 2024 2.0 Original Edition feature a key perfromance update, where Jonny has re-shaped his current nose profile to allow for even less bounce outs and a quicker feel in his throw
Gary Anderson
The Flying Scotsman is a two-time PDC World Champion with back to back wins in 2015 and 2016. Known for his smooth throw and high scores, he is one of the top players in the game today.
What darts does Gary Anderson use?
Gary Anderson is currently using 24 gram Unicorn Phase 4 darts. The phase 4 darts are a pencil-thin dart with very thin razor cut grooves along the length of the barrel.
- Barrel designs as used by World Champion Gary Anderson on TV, 90% Natural Tungsten
- Gripper 3 two-tone shafts
- Guaranteed Weight Certified ±0.1g
- Icon Case
Raymond van Barneveld
Raymond van Barneveld is a Dutch professional darts player that has won the BDO 4 times and PDC once. He is also the first player to achieve a nine-dart finish in both the Premier League and PDC World Championship.
What darts does Raymond van Barneveld use?
Raymond van Barneveld uses Target RVB95’s. They are a pencil-shaped dart that is a little thicker than average. The front half of the barrel is dimplexed while the back half has standard razor thin grooves all the way down.
- 95% tungsten
- Black Titanium coating
- Target firepoint
Phil Taylor
Many consider Phil “The Power” Taylor to be the greatest dart player of all time. Even if you disagree, you can not deny his success. He has been the PDC Player of the Year 6 times and has made it to the finals 14 consecutive times from 1994-2007 with eight successive wins.
What darts does Phil Taylor use?
Phil Taylor uses 26 gram Target Legacy Darts. They are a thick front-loaded dart that could almost be considered a stubby. They have standard ringed grooves cut through the middle of the barrel.
- Player endorsed - the next generation in dart technology has been developed for and used by Phil 'the power' Taylor - 16 times Champion Of the world
- Balanced for the stacking style of play 'the power' Is known for, each barrel has been cut with the stunning Trapezoidal grip technology to offer outstanding levels of grip and feel. The barrel is then hand sandblasted to create a distinct matte texture for improved grip at the rear, and laser Etched with Phil's signature and target logo
- Coated in a Blush Gold and black PVD titanium nitride to provide long lasting barrel protection and enhanced grip
- Finished with ultra. Ghost + Flight, power titanium G5 shaft and special diamond Pro dart point
Adrian Lewis
Both Phil Taylor and Adrian are from Stoke-on-Trent, England and in his early days, he had the opportunity to train with “The Power” from a young age. With 25th PDC titles under his belt, Adrian Lewis is one of the greatest dart players around.
What darts does Adrian Lewis use?
Adrian Lewis uses 21 gram Target darts. They are a pencil-shaped dart with a standard ringed grove pattern through most of the barrel.
- Precision Ringed grip & Nano grip
- Natural 90% tungsten
- Pro grip black short shaft
James Wade
James Wade is currently the most successful left handed dart player. Winning his first major title at 24, he has continued to perform. Besides his wins, has many other notable accomplishments. James was the first player to beat Phil Taylor in the Premier League. He is one of only three players in the world to hit a nine-darter in the World Grand Prix and the Grand Slam of Darts.
What darts does James Wade use?
James Was uses 20 gram Unicorn James Wade Purists darts. They are a standard pencil barrel with evenly spaced groves through, with the grooves getting closer towards the back.
- Natural Tungsten
- Gripper 3 shafts
- Engraved Unicorn Hallmark
- Length: 49.78mm Diameter: 6.99mm
Rob Cross
Winning his debut PDC match against Phil Taylor in 2018, Rob Cross is currently ranked Number 2 in the league. He has an impressive record for a player who has only been playing professionally for a few years and has a promising future.
What darts does Rob Cross use?
Rob Cross uses 21 gram Target Voltage darts. They are a thin dart with a much smoother grip than most. Even the few grooves it does have cut in it are shallower than similar models.
- 90% Tungsten
- 48 mm short barrel
- Complete with pro grip shaft and no.6 flights
Gerwyn Price
Another relative newcomer to the pro circuit, Gerwyn Price has been doing reasonably good for himself lately. With back to back wins at the Players Championships and his first televised win at Grand Slam of Darts in late 2018, Gerwyn Price is on a hot streak.
What darts does Gerwyn Price use?
Gerwyn Price uses his own 24 gram Red Dragon Darts. They are a standard pencil thin dart with a shark fin groove every 5mm or so. There is also a version that has diamond grains infused into the barrel for a better grip!
- Set of 3 x 24g - 90% premium quality Red Dragon tungsten darts
- Hardcore flights
- Red Dragon Nitrotech shafts
- World Number 3 The Iceman Gerwyn Price changed the darts world creating a New Order at the 2018 Grand Slam of Darts, when he beat double world champion Gary Anderson in a tremendous final to win his first televised major title.
Michael Smith
One of the younger players in the PDC, Michael Smith is currently ranked 6th and has won 6 titles since his debut in 2008. His most recent win is a victory against Rob Cross in the Shanghai Darts Masters in 2018
What darts does Michael Smith use?
Micheal Smith uses 24 gram Unicorn Maestro Silver darts. They are a standard pencil shaped dart with deep grooves in the middle and a set of ringed cuts both in front and behind.
- Natural Tungsten
- Gripper 3 shafts
- Engraved Unicorn Hallmark
- Length: 46.99mm Diameter: 7.14mm
What Do These Darts Have In Common?
There is no right or wrong dart. If there were, the pros would all use the same one. However, looking at the results above we can conclude a few things.
- All pros use tungsten darts. Tungsten is dense, allowing you to have a thinner but heavier dart
- 21 to 24 grams appears to be the sweet spot
- Most pros use a barrel that has a thin pencil shape. Thinner barrels make tighter grouping easier which means higher scoring.
- Most pros prefer a barrel with heavy grooves cut along its length.
Out of all the differences, grip type appears to be the most varied from player to player. For the longest time, most dart grips consisted of heavy knurling. Now the trend has turned to a variety of alternatives. From ringed cuts to infused diamonds the options are endless.
Breaking Down Everything Else
What Weight Darts Do Pros Use?
Darts can weigh between 12 to 50 grams. Pro dart players use darts that are 22 grams in weight on average. The heavier a dart is, the straighter it will fly when thrown.
A lighter dart will have more of a parabolic curve when thrown and will hit the board from a higher angle. These are of course basic generalizations as there are other variables that will affect trajectory.
What Dart Shafts Do The Pros Use?
Most pro dart players use a medium-size plastic or nylon shafts. The length of the shaft used will complement the dart barrel type and throwing style.
If you purchase any of the sets mentioned above, they will generally come with shafts. I personally have always liked aluminum shafts but I appear to be in the minority.
If you are unsure where to start, Harrows Supergrips are generally known as a favorite of most players. Grab a pack of 15 here.
What Dart Flights Do The Pros Use?
Most pros use standard shape dart flights. Using a standard flight helps get a higher landing angle on the dart, which is preferred by most pros. A higher angle on the board leaves more space for following darts.
Flights are for more complex than most people give credit for. Different shapes, sizes, materials, all affect the path of travel. We have a full guide to flights that you can find here, What Dart Flight To Buy?
So What Should You Get?
Its personal preference of course and will take some trial and error to find what works for you. Modern darts designs are well thought out, scientifically crafted torpedoes of accuracy.
You really can’t go wrong with any of the above options as they all have a proven record of performance.
Great info mate. I’ve thrown for years, know what I like, and how I throw. Unfortunately, my life and career have affected me dramatically, I just don’t throw the same. I have a certain understanding of these things, but thought I’d revisit since my brain took some hits as well. I like the way you present things, especially the contents list to go where need. Thanx!
I left my collection of different darts at the summer house and can’t wait to go get them. I bought Dart World Sharp Shooter, tungsten, 24g, and have different flights depending on my frame of mind. Practicing with one set seems to help instead of changing all the time.
This week, my Dart World, UK, Hornet darts came. Brass, big fat jobs, 18 grams, stubby. I got them as a lark because of the hornet design on the flights. yeah. I’m looking for scorpions as well. I also have shark fins. Get the picture? Nice article, and I really enjoy watching the pros!
Good day!
What’s your advice? What is the best game to play where the chances of winning are higher?
Your chances of mostly depend on who you are playing. Check here for a full list of dart games. Look at something like killer or hound and hare (with a handicap) to even the odds.
i find it strange you mention barney winning bdo and pdc but seem to forget phil taylor has won a total of 15 world titles. Not just 6 PDC ones,. How anyone can say hes not the best player ever is baffling…. noone has come close to what hes done, so many records.. . Its the most obvious G. O. A. T of any sport in history
That 6 listed is for the player of the year award, and the 14 is
consecutive wins. Phil has actually won 16 world championships. And I agree, he his the GOAT. You can go here to read up on the best darts player of all time!