For anyone starting out in darts, choosing the right set of steel tip darts can make a big difference. A good set helps beginners develop control, accuracy, and confidence on the board. While professional players often go for expensive tungsten darts, newcomers can find options that are high quality, affordable, and easy to use.
Tungsten darts are popular because they are slim, dense, and allow tighter groupings on the board, which helps new players see improvement faster. In this guide, we look at five of the best tungsten steel tip dart sets under $35, focusing on grip, barrel design, weight, and included accessories. Each of these sets offers a good balance of comfort, durability, and performance, so beginners can get started without feeling frustrated or overspending.
Harrows Pulse 90% Tungsten Steel Tip Darts
The Harrows Pulse darts are a solid choice for anyone learning the game. They are made from 90% tungsten, which makes them slim but heavy enough to feel stable in the hand. The barrels come in six different weights from 21 grams to 26 grams, and the barrel diameters range from 6.4mm to 6.9mm depending on the weight. Each barrel is 49mm long, which is a comfortable size for most players.
| Weight: | Barrel Length: | Barrel Width: |
| 21 g | 49.00 mm | 6.40 mm |
| 22 g | 49.00 mm | 6.40 mm |
| 23 g | 49.00 mm | 6.60 mm |
| 24 g | 49.00 mm | 6.60 mm |
| 25 g | 49.00 mm | 6.90 mm |
| 26 g | 49.00 mm | 6.90 mm |
One of the standout features of the Pulse darts is the recessed curve grip. This type of grip gives a strong feel for the barrel but doesn’t make the release too sticky, which is perfect for beginners who are still learning how to let go smoothly. The darts come with Aqua Supergrip Fusion shafts, Prime 7510 Hex Flights, and a travel case, so you have everything you need to start practicing.
From my experience, these darts are very beginner-friendly. The grip feels natural, the weight is balanced, and the match-weighed barrels ensure that all three darts fly the same way. For someone new to steel tip darts, the Harrows Pulse is an excellent first set that can grow with you as you improve.
Specifications:
- Material: 90% Tungsten.
- Weight Options: 21g, 22g, 23g, 24g, 25g, 26g.
- Barrel Length: 49mm.
- Barrel Diameters: 21g-22g: 6.4mm, 23g-24g: 6.6mm, 25g-26g: 6.9mm.
- Grip Type: Recessed Curve Grip.
- Included Accessories: Aqua Supergrip Fusion Shafts, Prime 7510 Hex Flights, Travel Case.
Red Dragon Pegasus 80% Tungsten Steel Tip Darts
The Red Dragon Pegasus darts are a good option for beginners who like a classic ringed design. Made from 80% tungsten, these darts are slightly thicker than the Harrows Pulse, giving a solid feel in the hand. They have a barrel length of about 50.8mm, and the diameters vary depending on the weight. For example, the 24g dart is 6.8mm wide, the 26g is 7.1mm, and the 28g is 7.4mm. This allows you to pick a dart that feels comfortable for your grip and throwing style.
The barrel has a standard ringed design with small grooves between the rings. This gives a secure grip without being too aggressive, which helps new players focus on aiming and releasing rather than adjusting their hold. The set also comes with extra-thick flights, Red Dragon shafts, and a small wallet for storage.
I’ve found that the Pegasus darts fly very smoothly, and the ringed grip makes it easy to control the throw. For beginners who want something that feels traditional but reliable, these darts are a great choice.
Specifications:
- Material: 80% Tungsten.
- Weight Options: 21g, 22g, 23g, 24g, 25g, 26g, 28g, 30g.
- Barrel Length: ~50.8mm.
- Barrel Diameters: 24g: 6.8mm, 26g: 7.1mm, 28g: 7.4mm.
- Grip Type: Standard Ringed with Micro Grooves.
- Included Accessories: Extra-Thick Flights, Red Dragon Shafts, Wallet.
Red Dragon Rebels V2 90% Tungsten Steel Tip Darts
The Rebels V2 darts are made for players who want a slim, precise feel. With 90% tungsten, the barrels are dense but not too thick. They come in 23g, 24g, and 25g, all with a consistent diameter of 6.6mm. The length is 48.3mm for the 23g and 50.8mm for the 24g and 25g darts, which provides a comfortable hold.
| Weight: | Barrel Length: | Barrel Width: |
| 23 g | 48.30 mm | 6.60 mm |
| 24 g | 50.80 mm | 6.60 mm |
| 25 g | 50.80 mm | 6.60 mm |
These darts have a center-weighted barrel and dual-ring grooves, giving a balanced feel and secure grip. The center-weighted design helps the dart fly straight, which is important for beginners learning accuracy.
In my experience, the Rebels V2 darts are great for players who want to develop a smooth, repeatable throw. The slim profile allows tighter groupings, and the dual-ring grip is firm without being harsh. These darts are easy to control and build confidence in new players.
Specifications:
- Material: 90% Tungsten.
- Weight Options: 23g, 24g, 25g.
- Barrel Length: 48.3mm (23g), 50.8mm (24g, 25g).
- Barrel Diameter: 6.6mm (all weights).
- Grip Type: Dual-Ring Grooves.
- Weight Distribution: Centre-Weighted.
Target Artemis 80% Tungsten Steel Tip Darts
The Target Artemis darts are another excellent choice for beginners. Made from 80% tungsten, they are slightly wider and offer a solid grip. The barrels range from 50.3mm to 52mm in length, and the diameter varies by weight: 21g is 7.0mm, 22g is 6.6mm, 23g is 6.75mm, 24g is 6.85mm, 25g is 7.0mm, and 26g is 7.0mm. This variety helps players choose a dart that fits comfortably in their hand.
The barrel has radial grooves along the length, which provide a consistent grip for beginners. The set comes with six Pro Grip shafts, nine Pro Ultra flights in multiple colors, a slim dart wallet, and a DartCounter App voucher for tracking your progress.
I found that the Artemis darts are very beginner-friendly because they feel balanced and easy to throw. The radial grooves are not too aggressive, allowing new players to focus on their aim and technique.
Specifications:
- Material: 80% Tungsten.
- Weight Options: 21g, 22g, 23g, 24g, 25g, 26g.
- Barrel Length: 50.3mm – 52.0mm.
- Barrel Diameters: 21g: 7.0mm, 22g: 6.6mm, 23g: 6.75mm, 24g: 6.85mm, 25g: 7.0mm, 26g: 7.0mm.
- Grip Type: Radial Grooves.
- Included Accessories: 6 Short Pro Grip Shafts, 9 Pro Ultra Flights, Dart Wallet, DartCounter App Voucher.
Red Dragon Defenders 85% Tungsten Steel Tip Darts
The Defenders darts are designed for beginners who want a secure and balanced feel. Made from 85% tungsten, they feature a parallel, center-weighted barrel with square grooves. The 22g barrel is 6.35mm wide, and the 24g barrel is 6.6mm wide, both with a length of 54.6mm.
| Weight: | Barrel Length: | Barrel Width: |
| 22 g | 54.6 mm | 6.35 mm |
| 24 g | 54.6 mm | 6.6 mm |
The square grooves cover the full length of the barrel, providing a reliable grip without being harsh. The elliptical front profile helps the darts fly straight and feel responsive. The set comes with VRX medium shafts and Red Dragon Hardcore standard flights.
In practice, these darts are easy to control and offer a stable, predictable throw. For beginners, the Defenders provide a solid starting point to develop accuracy and consistency without feeling too technical or complicated.
Specifications:
- Material: 85% Tungsten.
- Weight Options: 22g, 24g.
- Barrel Length: 54.6mm.
- Barrel Diameters: 22g: 6.35mm, 24g: 6.6mm.
- Grip Type: Square Grooves.
- Weight Distribution: Centre-Weighted, Elliptical Front Profile.
- Included Accessories: VRX Medium Shafts, Hardcore Standard Flights.
Which Dart Set Is Right for You?
Choosing your first set of steel tip darts is all about comfort, grip, and control. The Harrows Pulse, Red Dragon Pegasus, Red Dragon Rebels V2, Target Artemis, and Red Dragon Defenders all provide beginner-friendly designs that help you learn consistent throws. By looking at barrel size, weight, and grip type, you can find a dart that feels natural in your hand. These sets also come with shafts, flights, and storage options, so you’re ready to start playing right away. No matter which set you pick, these tungsten darts offer the balance, precision, and durability that make practicing fun and rewarding for new players.
Questions & Answers….
Q1: How do I choose the right darts as a beginner?
Start by focusing on comfort and control. Try darts between 21g and 24g to find a weight that feels natural, and look for a medium-level grip that won’t stick too much in your fingers. The best dart is the one that helps you throw smoothly and consistently.
Q2: What’s the difference between tungsten and brass darts?
Tungsten darts are slimmer, denser, and more durable than brass darts. They allow tighter groupings on the board and are usually preferred by serious players. Beginners often start with tungsten because they feel more balanced and professional.
Q3: What dart weight is best for me?
Most players start around 22–24 grams for steel tip darts. Lighter darts (18–21g) require a faster throw, while heavier ones (25g+) can be easier to control for slower, steady throwers. Testing different weights is the best way to find your comfort zone.
Q4: Does grip really matter when choosing darts?
Yes, grip is one of the most important factors. Beginners should choose a medium grip — enough texture to feel secure, but not too sharp or aggressive. Overly grippy darts can make it harder to release smoothly.
Q5: Should I pick front-, mid-, or rear-weighted darts?
If you’re just starting, mid-weighted darts are best. They’re balanced and easier to control for different throwing styles. Once you get comfortable, you can experiment with front- or rear-weighted darts to match your natural grip position.
Q6: How do I know if a dart barrel is too thick or thin for me?
It comes down to hand size and grip preference. Thinner barrels (around 6.3–6.7mm) suit tighter grips and accuracy-focused players, while thicker barrels (7mm or more) offer a steadier hold and are better for players with larger hands.
Q7: Do flight shapes make a difference?
Absolutely. Standard flights give more lift and stability, great for beginners. Slim flights cut through the air faster, ideal for fast throwers or lighter darts. Experimenting with flight shapes helps fine-tune how your darts travel.
Q8: How important are shafts in dart setup?
Very. Short shafts keep the dart more front-heavy and stable, while long shafts shift balance backward and can suit players with smoother throws. Many beginners prefer medium shafts because they offer a balanced feel.
Q9: Should I buy a complete dart set or custom setup?
For beginners, a complete dart set is the best starting point. It includes everything you need — barrels, flights, and shafts — already matched for balance. Once you improve, you can start mixing components to build your ideal setup.
Q10: How do I know when it’s time to upgrade my darts?
If you’ve been playing regularly and notice your grouping improving but your darts feel uncomfortable or inconsistent, it might be time to upgrade. Moving to a higher tungsten percentage or a grip that better matches your throw can make a big difference.
