Common Dart Myths That Are Hurting Your Game

Common Dart Myths That Are Hurting Your Game

Common Dart Myths That Are Hurting Your Game

If you’ve been playing darts for a while and feel like you’ve hit a plateau, the problem might not be your talent — it might be bad advice.

Darts is full of myths passed down in pubs, leagues, and online forums. Some sound logical. Others come from watching professionals and assuming what works for them will work for everyone. Unfortunately, many of these beliefs actively hold players back.

Let’s bust the most common dart myths and show you what actually improves your game.

Myth 1: Heavier Darts Are Always More Accurate

One of the most common beliefs in darts is that heavier darts automatically improve accuracy.

The truth:
Accuracy comes from consistency and control, not weight alone.

Heavier darts (24g–26g) can feel more stable for some players, especially those with a slower throw. Lighter darts (18g–22g) suit faster, more fluid throws. Neither is “better” — it’s about what matches your throwing style.

👉 If your darts feel like they drop too fast or force your arm to work harder, they’re probably too heavy.

What to do instead:
Experiment within a 2–3 gram range until your throw feels natural and repeatable.

Myth 2: Expensive Darts Will Instantly Make You Better

It’s tempting to think a premium dart set will magically fix your game.

The truth:
Better darts won’t fix poor technique.

High-quality darts improve feel, grip, and durability, but they won’t correct inconsistent release, stance, or follow-through. Many beginners buy pro-level darts too early and see no improvement — because fundamentals matter more.

What to do instead:
Focus on:

  • A comfortable grip

  • A repeatable throw

  • Proper dartboard setup

Once those are solid, upgrading darts does make a difference.

Myth 3: You Must Copy a Pro Player’s Grip or Throw

Watching professional darts can be inspiring — and misleading.

The truth:
Pro players succeed because they’ve perfected their natural throw, not because they use a “correct” grip.

Some grip at the front, others at the rear. Some throw fast, others slow and deliberate. Copying a pro’s technique often feels forced and uncomfortable.

What to do instead:
Build around what feels stable and repeatable for you. If it looks boring but works, that’s perfect.

Myth 4: Dart Flights Don’t Matter Much

Flights are often treated as disposable accessories.

The truth:
Flights have a huge impact on dart stability.

Larger flights create more drag and help keep darts upright — great for beginners. Smaller flights fly faster but punish bad releases.

What to do instead:

  • Use standard or kite flights if your darts wobble

  • Switch to smaller flights only once your throw is consistent

  • Replace flights regularly — worn flights = inconsistent darts

Myth 5: Your Grip Should Never Change

Many players are told to “lock in” one grip forever.

The truth:
Your grip will evolve as your technique improves.

Small adjustments over time are natural and healthy. What matters is avoiding constant drastic changes, not avoiding change entirely.

What to do instead:
Stick with a grip long enough to judge results — but don’t be afraid of subtle refinements that improve comfort or release.

Myth 6: Practice Means Throwing for Hours

More darts = more improvement, right?

The truth:
Mindless practice reinforces bad habits.

Throwing for hours without focus often makes things worse. Fatigue leads to sloppy technique, and mistakes get locked in.

What to do instead:
Practice with intent:

  • Short sessions (30–45 minutes)

  • Clear goals (grouping, doubles, scoring)

  • Stop when form drops

Quality always beats quantity.

Myth 7: Bounce-Outs Mean Bad Darts

Few things are more frustrating than bounce-outs.

The truth:
Most bounce-outs come from throw angle and board condition, not dart quality.

Dull points, a worn board, or flat entry angles cause darts to deflect. Even the best darts bounce out if the setup is wrong.

What to do instead:

  • Rotate your dartboard regularly

  • Keep points clean and lightly roughened

  • Aim for a slight downward entry angle

Myth 8: Grip Strength Improves Control

Some players squeeze the dart tightly, thinking it improves precision.

The truth:
A tight grip kills a clean release.

Tension causes the dart to stick or flick on release, ruining consistency.

What to do instead:
Hold the dart firm but relaxed — just tight enough to prevent slipping.

Myth 9: If You’re Not Improving Fast, You’re Not Talented

This myth makes players quit too early.

The truth:
Darts improvement is non-linear.

You’ll have plateaus, sudden jumps, and frustrating regressions. That’s normal — even for professionals.

What to do instead:
Track progress over months, not days. Small gains compound.

Final Thoughts: Improve by Letting Go of Myths

Darts is simple — but not easy. Progress comes from understanding your own throw, choosing equipment that supports it, and practicing with purpose.

If something feels forced, uncomfortable, or inconsistent, it’s probably based on a myth — not good technique.

Let go of the bad advice, trust what works for you, and your game will improve naturally.

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