Japan is home to some of the most active soft-tip darts scenes in the world, and many of the barrels, flights and shafts used by top players are designed and made there. Many of these models are released only in Japan, so they can be hard to find elsewhere. This guide introduces the main Japanese darts brands and gives a few tips on choosing your next setup.
Why Japanese darts?
Japanese brands work closely with professional soft-tip players, and most of their barrels are signature models designed with those players. You will find a huge range of shapes, weights and grip cuts, and new models are released every month. Japanese flight systems such as Fit Flight, L-style and CONDOR are also known for their durability and secure fit.
Popular Japanese darts brands
TRiNiDAD
TRiNiDAD is known for its pro-player signature barrels, used by many of Japan's top soft-tip professionals. The range covers soft-tip and steel-tip barrels, cases and accessories, and also includes the CONDOR AXE flight system.
DYNASTY
DYNASTY is the brand behind the A-FLOW and KATANA series. Its collection includes signature barrels from Japanese pro players, as well as flights, shafts and accessories, with many models released only in Japan.
COSMO DARTS and Fit Flight
COSMO DARTS makes pro-player barrels and the Fit Flight / Fit Shaft system. Fit Flight is popular for its strong, secure fit with Fit Shafts and comes in many shapes, sizes and printed designs, including player signature flights.
L-style (Flight L)
L-style produces Flight L and L-Flight PRO flights in a wide range of shapes. Many are designed to be used with a champagne ring, and there are many player signature designs.
CONDOR
CONDOR makes integrated flight-and-shaft systems, including the popular CONDOR AXE series. Because the flight and shaft are one piece, the angle stays consistent and the flight does not come loose.
TIGA, JOKER DRIVER and DMC
These brands also produce barrels for leading soft-tip players in Japan, along with cases and accessories. Look out for limited releases, which often sell out quickly.
CAMEO
CAMEO specializes in dart cases, with stylish and protective designs in many sizes and colors.
How to choose a barrel
- Tip type: Soft-tip barrels for electronic machines usually use a 2BA thread. Steel-tip barrels are for bristle boards. Check the product page before you order.
- Weight: Soft-tip barrels are typically around 16–20g. Steel-tip barrels are usually heavier, around 20–26g.
- Shape: Straight barrels give a consistent grip along the whole barrel. Torpedo barrels have their center of gravity toward the front and suit players who grip near the front.
- Material: Most barrels are 90% or 95% tungsten. A higher percentage lets the barrel be slimmer for the same weight.
- Grip cut: Sharper cuts give more grip; smooth or fine cuts give a cleaner release. If you are not sure, a player model close to your current barrel is a safe choice.
Flights and shafts
Flight shape changes how the dart flies. Larger flights such as standard shape add stability, while slim and small flights reduce drag. Fit Flight, L-style and CONDOR each have their own system, so make sure your flights and shafts are compatible, or choose an integrated system such as CONDOR AXE.
Buying Japanese darts from overseas
Dartsbuddy.com is based in Tokyo and ships genuine products from Japanese and international brands worldwide by tracked EMS (Japan Post). For the USA and many EU countries, import duties and taxes are included at checkout, so there are no extra charges on delivery. Browse our Made in Japan collection to see darts, flights, shafts and cases made by Japanese brands.
Have a question about a barrel or setup? Email us at info@dartsbuddy.com and we will be happy to help.
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.