Can you use steel tip darts on electronic dart board | WillDarts Guide

Can You Use Steel Tip Darts on an Electronic Dart Board? Absolutely Not!

The short answer is a resounding no. Using steel tip darts on an electronic dart board is a recipe for disaster. While the allure of using your preferred steel tips might be tempting, doing so will almost certainly damage your board beyond repair. Electronic dart boards are specifically designed to be used with soft tip darts, and understanding why is crucial for preserving your investment and enjoying the game.

Why Steel Tip Darts Damage Electronic Dart Boards

The primary reason steel tip darts are incompatible with electronic boards lies in the board's construction. Electronic dart boards are made of a plastic material, typically featuring small holes designed to register the impact of soft tip darts. These holes are connected to a complex sensor matrix underneath the surface. Here's a breakdown of the key issues:

• Puncturing and Cracking: Steel tip darts, being significantly harder and sharper than soft tip darts, will puncture the plastic surface and potentially crack the board. This damage is irreversible and will compromise the board's ability to accurately register scores.
• Sensor Damage: The force of a steel tip dart can damage or destroy the sensitive electronic sensors underneath the board's surface. These sensors are responsible for detecting where the dart landed and calculating the score. Damage to these sensors renders the board unusable.
• Board Wear: Even if the initial damage seems minor, repeated use of steel tip darts will lead to rapid wear and tear, shortening the lifespan of your electronic dart board considerably. The constant impact will deform the plastic and further damage the sensors.

Common Questions About Dart Board Compatibility

Many dart players new to electronic boards have similar questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked:

• Can I modify my steel tip darts to work on an electronic board? No. While you might think about filing down the tips or adding a covering, this is strongly discouraged. Any alteration will likely still damage the board and affect the dart's flight characteristics, making it inaccurate.
• What happens if I accidentally throw a steel tip dart at my electronic board? Stop immediately! Remove the dart carefully and inspect the board for any visible damage. Even a single throw can cause a puncture that affects the board's functionality. If you see damage, it's best to avoid using the board until it can be assessed or repaired (though repair is often not feasible).
• Are there any electronic dart boards that can handle steel tip darts? No, there are no electronic dart boards designed to withstand the impact of steel tip darts. Steel tip darts are exclusive to bristle dartboards, which are made of sisal fibers. Bristle dartboards are designed to absorb the impact of steel tips.

Understanding the Difference Between Soft Tip and Steel Tip Darts

To avoid damaging your electronic board, it's important to understand the differences between soft tip and steel tip darts:

• Soft Tip Darts: These darts have plastic tips and are designed for use with electronic dart boards. They are lightweight and less damaging to the board's surface. The regulation weight for a soft tip dart, according to the World Darts Federation (WDF), is 18 grams, though many leagues allow weights up to 20 grams.
• Steel Tip Darts: These darts have metal tips and are designed for use with bristle dart boards. They are heavier and more durable than soft tip darts. A typical steel tip dart will weigh between 20 and 26 grams. The added weight and pointed metal tip are what causes the damage when used on electronic boards.

Choosing the Right Darts for Your Electronic Dart Board

Always use soft tip darts designed for electronic dart boards. Ensure the darts are in good condition with no cracks or deformities in the plastic tips. Regularly replacing the tips is essential for optimal performance and to prevent missed scores or bounce-outs.

By understanding the limitations of your electronic dart board and using the appropriate soft tip darts, you can ensure years of enjoyment and prevent costly damage.