Shaft Selection
Dart shafts, also known as stems, are available in three standard lengths: short, medium, and long. Of course, the actual lengths of the shafts vary by a few millimetres across manufacturers. There are also numerous material options for the shafts, such as plastic, nylon, and aluminium. The length and material of the dart shaft, as well as where you hold the dart to throw, are the most important aspects to consider when selecting a dart shaft. The shaft's real effect on the dart is related to its centre of gravity.
A short shaft shifts the dart's centre of gravity to the front, whereas a long shaft shifts it to the back. The location of your dart when you throw it can have a considerable impact on the dart's flight and entrance. If you hold your dart at the front, you should get the best performance with a short stem. A longer stem should produce better outcomes if you hold the barrel of the dart towards the back.
When choosing dart shafts, it's also crucial to think about the material they're constructed of. The weight of the material has no effect on the way the dart flies. However, the shapes of the shafts are such that the weight difference between plastic and metal is frequently minimal. There are many designs available, including some with grip and others that spin when thrown. The most popular and profitable stem designs, on the other hand, are the most plain and straight ones. The primary purpose for selecting between shaft materials is to avoid breakages. Cheaper plastic shafts are more prone to breaking if the plastic is hard and brittle, whereas higher-quality plastic shafts are far more durable and shatter less easily. Aluminium shafts are, of course, much stronger, but they can flex and become nearly unusable. Some manufacturers now produce nylon shafts that are engineered to flex more freely and are less likely to snap. And, if your budget allows, the most recent premium alternative is carbon fibre shafts.
