Choosing the right dartboard, throwing set, or accessory makes the difference between casual backyard fun and a true practice session. This guide evaluates top picks across darts and throwing games, based on hands-on testing, expert input, and current consumer feedback to help sports fans select the right gear for their space and budget.
How we tested and chose products
- Hands-on testing: We set up and used each product in realistic conditions — from tournament-style throws on sisal boards to backyard axe and foam-star tossing — to evaluate durability, accuracy, and ease of setup.
- Expert input: Sourced opinions from experienced dart players and throwing-game coaches to assess performance metrics like bounce-outs, sticking consistency, and ergonomics.
- Consumer feedback: Reviewed verified user reviews and common warranty/issues reported across marketplaces to identify real-world durability and satisfaction patterns.
- Practical criteria: We prioritized build quality, safety, setup simplicity, versatility, and price-to-performance balance. Each pick fits a specific need: precision play, backyard entertainment, replacement parts, or cost-conscious upgrades.
Set-Up Measuring Tape
A compact, tournament-grade measuring strip that takes the guesswork out of dartboard installation. It’s inexpensive, designed for both steel and soft-tip setups, and includes clear marks for board height and diagonal Oche distance—ideal for players wanting an accurate, regulation setup.
The measuring tape strip is a small but essential tool for any player setting up a board to regulation height. It provides clear marks for both the dartboard center and the diagonal distance to the oche, making accurate installation fast and repeatable. In testing it’s lightweight, easy to follow, and durable enough for repeated setups. There’s no gameplay effect, but for the price it removes a common setup error and is a must-have for new installations or club spaces. Pros: Accurate marks, low cost, works for steel and soft-tip. Cons: It’s a single-use tool (keep it safe for future installs).
Bulk Dart Flights Pack
A 60-piece set of PET dart flights in 20 designs for quick DIY replacements. Durable, lightweight, and easy to swap, these flights reduce drag and improve consistency—ideal for league players who go through flights regularly or anyone wanting variety without breaking the bank.
This flight pack offers exceptional value: 60 flights across 20 patterns and a PET hard finish that keeps shape and airflow predictable. During testing the flights held up well to regular play and were simple to install or swap mid-session. They’re especially useful for players who want reliable flight geometry without paying for branded, custom flights. Technical note: PET construction gives a stiffer profile than standard nylon flights, which helps stability for faster throws. Pros: Huge quantity, consistent performance, inexpensive. Cons: Not premium material—serious pros might prefer higher-end branded flights.
Axe Throwing Target Set
A complete axe-throwing set with a dense bristle target surface, two axes, and multiple foam darts. Versatile mounting and a rotatable hook for storage make it great for backyard gatherings, team-building events, or indoor fun where a forgiving target surface is needed.
This full throwing kit delivers a premium-feeling experience for backyard and indoor axe play. The dense bristle target surface significantly reduces bounce-offs and offers an authentic ‘stick’ when axes land correctly. The set includes two axes and several foam accessories with anti-slip backing, which are safer for mixed-age groups. Installation is flexible — wall, stand, or hanging — and the 360° hook is a thoughtful touch for accessory storage. In testing the target’s bristle face held up to repeated throws, though like all bristle targets it will eventually show wear with heavy use. Pros: Complete kit, robust target face, versatile mounting. Cons: Heavier price than single accessories, bristles will need replacement over long-term heavy use.
Winmau Blade 6 Set
A tournament-grade Blade 6 sisal dartboard with ultra-thin wiring, surround, two sets of steel darts, and setup accessories. It minimizes bounce-outs, offers superior scoring surfaces, and includes protective surround foam for wall safety—ideal for dedicated players and serious home setups.
The Winmau Blade 6 is our editors’ pick for serious players who want tournament-level performance at home. Built with density-controlled sisal and narrow profile wiring, it reduces bounce-outs and gives a true, forgiving surface that retains its shape over long use. The included high-density foam surround protects walls and adds a polished look, and the dual dart sets are tuned for balance out of the box. We found scoring more consistent and bounce-outs noticeably reduced versus budget boards. Technical highlights include ultra-thin wiring, uniform sisal density, and accessories such as an oche line and checkout card for practice. Pros: Tournament-grade surface, low bounce-outs, comprehensive kit. Cons: Pricey, requires dedicated space and correct mounting for best performance.
Comparative overview — key differences
- Winmau Blade 6 Set (Editors Choice): Best overall for players who want tournament-grade performance, low bounce-outs, and a full accessory package.
- Axe Throwing Target Set (Premium Choice): Best full throwing-game package for backyard and mixed-age groups; versatile setup and higher-end target surface.
- Bulk Dart Flights Pack (Best Value for Money): Best low-cost way to keep spare parts on hand; durable PET flights and large quantity for frequent players.
- Set-Up Measuring Tape (Best Budget Pick): Essential, inexpensive tool for accurate board mounting and regulation-compliant setups.
Which is best overall: Winmau Blade 6 Set — it delivers the most complete, high-performance darts experience. If you want alternatives: choose the axe-throwing set for social backyard play, or the flight pack and measuring tape for maintenance and setup.
Final recommendation
After hands-on testing, expert consultation, and consumer research, our top overall recommendation is the Winmau Blade 6 Set for anyone serious about darts performance at home. It offers the best balance of build quality, low bounce-outs, and included accessories.
If your priorities differ:
- Choose the Axe Throwing Target Set for a premium backyard throwing experience and family-friendly versatility.
- Choose the Bulk Dart Flights Pack if you need economical, reliable replacements for frequent play.
- Choose the Set-Up Measuring Tape if you’re installing a board and want regulation accuracy without guessing.
These picks reflect rigorous testing and real-world feedback; pick the model that best matches your space, playing frequency, and the kind of throwing game you enjoy.