Straight, Torpedo or Scalloped Dart Barrels Explained

Barrel shape affects where a dart feels widest, how easily you can repeat your finger position and how the weight is distributed through the barrel. Straight, torpedo and scalloped darts can all work well, but each gives the hand a different reference point.

Straight dart barrels

Straight or parallel barrels maintain a broadly consistent width through most of the barrel. They are common because they allow several grip positions and can suit front, middle or rear grippers depending on the grip pattern.

Potential advantages

• Flexible finger placement.
• Often easier to group tightly because the profile is narrow and consistent.
• Available in a very wide range of lengths, widths and grip styles.

Potential disadvantages

• Players who need a clear finger reference may find a uniform barrel less repeatable.
• A long narrow barrel can feel unfamiliar if you currently use a short, wider dart.

Search examples include Harrows NX90 Parallel, Jonny Clayton Original 2.0 and Rob Cross 95K.

Torpedo dart barrels

A torpedo barrel is wider through the middle and narrows towards one or both ends. This creates a compact feel and can provide a natural central holding point.

Potential advantages

• Distinctive shape helps some players find the same grip.
• Can feel compact and substantial without being extremely long.
• Often suits a middle grip.

Potential disadvantages

• The wider centre can reduce space in very tight groups.
• It may not suit a player who grips at the extreme rear or front.

Search current stock for Target Bolide 03 or browse other shaped models in the Target collection.

Scalloped dart barrels

A scalloped barrel has a deliberate concave section. The scallop acts as a physical reference point, helping a player place one or more fingers in the same position on every throw.

Potential advantages

• Strong and repeatable finger-placement reference.
• Can suit players who struggle to locate the same grip on a straight barrel.
• Available with front, middle or rear scallops.

Potential disadvantages

• The scallop must be in the correct position for your grip.
• A badly positioned scallop can force your fingers away from their natural position.

Try searches such as Target Bolide Void 04 and browse current used darts using the barrel-shape filters.

Tapered and teardrop barrels

Tapered barrels gradually narrow towards one end. Teardrop or bomb-style darts are usually shorter and fuller through the body. These shapes can encourage a defined grip and alter where the mass feels concentrated.

Examples worth searching include Harrows Supergrip Tapered and Damon Heta Series 4.

How do you choose the right barrel shape?

1. Identify your grip position. Front, middle and rear grippers need the useful grip section in different places.
2. Measure your current darts. Length and maximum width give you a useful starting point.
3. Decide whether you need a finger reference. A scallop or taper can help repeat placement.
4. Consider grouping space. Narrower profiles can leave more room around the treble.
5. Do not judge shape alone. Grip pattern, weight and balance all contribute to the feel.

Brand ranges vary. Browse used darts from Target, Winmau, Red Dragon, Harrows and Shot to compare different approaches.