Darts is a game that combines skill, precision, and practice. While having a quality dartboard and set of darts is essential, the right accessories can transform your playing experience from amateur to professional-level. Whether you’re a beginner learning the ropes or a seasoned player chasing that perfect 180, these top five dartboard accessories will elevate your game while protecting your equipment and surroundings.
1. Dartboard Surround
A dartboard surround is one of the most important accessories for any serious dart player. Think of it as insurance for your walls and darts – this protective ring catches stray throws while reducing bounce-outs. Modern surrounds like the Winmau Blade 6 use high-density EVA foam that self-heals around dart holes, maintaining protection over time.
Why Every Player Needs One:
- Prevents costly wall repairs (especially important for renters)
- Reduces noise by up to 70% compared to bare walls (perfect for home setups)
- Available in tournament-approved colors like black or branded designs
Pro Tip: Look for surrounds with integrated number rings to keep your board looking fresh while maintaining scoring visibility.
2. Dart Mat
A dart mat does triple duty: it protects your flooring, ensures proper oche distance, and provides crucial grip for your stance. Premium mats like the Target Vision Dart Mat feature laser-printed measurements conforming to WDF standards (2.37m from board face to oche line), with reinforced throwing zones where players naturally wear the surface.
Floor Protection Meets Professional Setup:
- 3mm thick rubber absorbs impact from falling darts
- Non-slip backing prevents dangerous movement during throw
- Some models include toe line markers for perfect positioning
Did You Know? Tournament-quality mats often feature reversible designs – one side for steel tip, another for soft tip darts.
3. Dart Sharpener
A sharp point is the difference between a scoring dart and a frustrating bounce-out. Dart sharpeners like the Unicorn Dartmate Pro use precision ceramic wheels to restore points without removing excess metal. Regular maintenance (every 2-3 hours of play) keeps your darts sticking firmly while preventing sisal fiber damage to your board.
Sharper Darts = Better Performance:
- Maintains 40° point angle for optimal penetration
- Reduces bounce-outs by up to 60% according to PDC equipment tests
- Compact designs fit in your dart case for on-the-go touch-ups
4. Dart Holder or Case
From simple acrylic stands that showcase your prized darts to professional cases with humidity-controlled compartments, storage solutions preserve your equipment’s condition. The Harrows Quadro case features individual spring-loaded slots that accommodate different barrel shapes while protecting delicate flights during transport.
Storage Solutions for Every Player:
- Hard cases with foam inserts for tournament players
- Wall-mounted racks that keep darts at eye level for easy selection
- Travel cases with TSA-approved locks for interstate competitions
5. Replacement Flights and Shafts
The right flight-shaft combination can add 10-15% to your scoring average. Modern options like Condor Axe integrated flights/shafts eliminate the weak point where traditional setups fail. For traditionalists, L-Style’s carbon fiber shafts with champagne rings prevent flight damage from Robin Hoods while maintaining ultra-thin profiles.
Customization Options:
- Standard (largest), Slim, or Pear-shaped flights for different trajectories
- Titanium vs nylon shafts – balance durability vs vibration absorption
- Color-coded systems to quickly identify your darts in team play
| Accessory | Beginner Pick | Pro-Level Upgrade |
|---|---|---|
| Surround | Winmau Basic | Target Corona Vision |
| Mat | Dartworld Essentials | One80 Gladiator |
| Sharpener | Red Dragon Stone | Trinidad Diamond |
Conclusion
Investing in quality dartboard accessories isn’t just about protection—it’s about unlocking your full potential as a player. From surround-protected quiet practice sessions to perfectly weighted flight combinations, these tools bridge the gap between backyard play and competitive performance. Remember, even Phil Taylor started with basic gear before his 214 professional titles!
Your Turn: Which accessory made the biggest difference to your game? Share your setup photos in the comments below—we’d love to see how Aussie players are kitting out their dart spaces!
