Ready to Level Up?
You've got the basics down — your throw is becoming more consistent, you're hitting your targets more often, and your starter darts are starting to feel like they're holding you back. This guide is for players who are ready to invest in a proper setup that matches their improving game.
What's Different About Intermediate Darts?
As you progress, the things that matter most shift. You're no longer just looking for something forgiving — you want a dart that complements your specific throw style. Key considerations at this stage:
- Barrel profile — straight, torpedo, or bomb? Each affects how the dart sits in your hand and how it flies
- Grip texture — ringed, knurled, or shark-cut grips give you more control as your release becomes more deliberate
- Higher tungsten content — 90%+ tungsten means a slimmer barrel for tighter groupings on the board
- Fine-tuning weight — by now you should have a feel for whether you want to go slightly lighter or heavier
Tungsten Percentage: Does It Matter?
Yes — and at the intermediate level, it starts to make a real difference. Higher tungsten content means a denser, slimmer barrel. A slimmer barrel means your darts can sit closer together on the board, which is crucial when you're regularly hitting the same areas and want to stack darts in doubles and trebles.
- 90% tungsten — the sweet spot for most players; slim, durable, and widely available
- 95–97% tungsten — even slimmer barrels for players who want maximum grouping potential
Our Top Picks for Intermediate Players
Harrows Supergrip Ultra 90% Tungsten Steel Tip Darts
The Supergrip Ultra is a favourite among club-level players for good reason. The aggressive grip texture gives you excellent control without being uncomfortable, and the 90% tungsten barrel is slim enough to stack darts in tight areas of the board. A serious step up from entry-level darts.
Harrows Wolfram 97% Tungsten Steel Tip Darts
If you're ready to go premium, the Wolfram's 97% tungsten barrel is one of the slimmest available. Designed for players who are consistently hitting their targets and want to eliminate bounce-outs and wire deflections. A dart that rewards accuracy.
Mission Saturn Darts — 90% Tungsten Fenrir
Mission's Saturn range offers a well-balanced barrel with a distinctive profile. The Fenrir variant has a mid-barrel grip that suits players who hold the dart towards the centre — a common technique as players develop a more refined grip.
Shot Celt Merlin 95% Tungsten Steel Tip Darts
The Merlin from Shot's Celt range combines a 95% tungsten barrel with a beautifully crafted design. It's a dart that performs as well as it looks — with a grip pattern that gives you confidence on every throw.
Mission Madars Razma Darts — 95% Tungsten
Inspired by Latvian professional Madars Razma, these 95% tungsten darts have a clean, tapered profile with a front-weighted feel. Great for players who are working on a more front-loaded grip and release.
Should You Change Your Flights and Shafts Too?
At the intermediate level, yes — it's worth experimenting. Your flights affect trajectory and stability:
- Standard flights — more drag, slower arc; good for a harder throw
- Slim flights — less drag, flatter trajectory; suits a smoother, more direct throw
- Kite/pear flights — a middle ground; popular with intermediate players
Shaft length also affects the angle at which the dart enters the board. Shorter shafts suit a more direct throw; longer shafts add stability for a loopier arc. Try a few combinations — small changes can make a noticeable difference.
Summary: What to Look for as an Intermediate Player
- ✅ 90%+ tungsten barrel
- ✅ A grip texture that matches your hold (ringed, knurled, or shark-cut)
- ✅ A barrel profile that suits your throw style (straight, torpedo, or bomb)
- ✅ Consider experimenting with flights and shaft length
- ✅ Buy from a brand with a strong reputation: Harrows, Mission, Shot, Target, Red Dragon
Browse our full range of intermediate and professional darts at Darts To You — all from leading brands with fast UK delivery.