Short answer: the tips of darts are usually called points. On steel-tip darts, they are steel points. On soft-tip darts, they are plastic soft tips. Players may also talk about fixed points, replaceable points, Swiss points, conversion points or grip points depending on the setup.
Last checked: 26 June 2026. This guide explains common darts terminology for beginners buying or maintaining darts.
Point, tip or dart point?
Casual players often say “tip”, and everyone will understand. In darts equipment language, “point” is more precise. The point is the part that enters the board. The barrel is the main metal body. The shaft or stem connects the barrel to the flight. The flight stabilises the dart in the air.
If you are searching for replacements, use terms such as steel dart points, soft tips, replacement points or dart point tool. That will give better results than only searching “tips”.
Steel-tip points
Steel-tip darts use metal points designed for bristle dartboards. They are used in traditional steel-tip darts, including standard 501 play. Steel points can be smooth, grooved, black-coated, silver, coloured or designed with extra board grip.
A steel point should enter the board cleanly and hold without damaging the board unnecessarily. Very aggressive points may reduce bounce-outs but can also wear the board faster.
Soft-tip points
Soft-tip darts use plastic tips designed for electronic boards. They are lighter and safer for the board type, but they can bend or break. Soft-tip players often carry spares because tips are consumable.
Do not use steel-tip darts on a soft-tip electronic board unless the board specifically allows conversion use. It can damage the board.
Types at a glance
| Term | Meaning | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| Steel point | Metal point | Bristle dartboards |
| Soft tip | Plastic point | Electronic soft-tip boards |
| Fixed point | Permanent-style steel point | Standard steel darts |
| Replaceable point | Point that can be changed with tools | Custom setups |
| Conversion point | Steel point for some soft-tip barrels | Hybrid use where suitable |
When should you replace dart points?
Replace or service points when they are bent, blunt, loose, rusted or causing too many bounce-outs. A slightly rough point can help the dart hold, but a damaged point can tear the board or behave unpredictably.
If the dart starts falling out of a decent board more often than usual, inspect the point, board condition and throw angle before blaming one thing.
Should points be sharp?
They should be clean enough to enter the board, but not needle-sharp. Overly sharp points can cut sisal and damage boards. Blunt points can bounce out. Many players lightly scuff or maintain points so they grip without slicing.
Grip points
Some steel points include grooves, rings or rough coatings. These can help the dart stay in the board or give a finger reference if the player grips near the point. They are not automatically better. A very grippy point can make dart removal harder and increase board wear.
Can beginners change points?
Beginners usually do not need to change points immediately. Start with a comfortable dart set and learn your throw. Change points only if there is a clear reason: repeated bounce-outs, a damaged point, a preferred length, or a setup recommended by someone who understands your darts.
Changing points may require a point tool. Do not use improvised force if you are unsure, because you can damage the barrel.
Soft-tip buying advice
If you play soft-tip, buy spare tips in the correct thread size for your darts. Tips break, bend and wear. Keeping spares in your case prevents a session ending early. Choose a tip that fits your board and barrel, not just a colour you like.
Steel-tip buying advice
If you play steel-tip, focus on dart comfort first: barrel shape, weight and grip. Point length and style can be refined later. If you are buying your first proper setup, browse dart sets. For boards and spares, see dartboards and darts accessories.
Maintenance checklist
- Check points for bends or burrs.
- Keep steel points dry to reduce rust.
- Do not over-sharpen.
- Replace broken soft tips immediately.
- Rotate your dartboard to reduce local wear.
- Use the correct board type for your darts.
Bottom line
Dart tips are most accurately called points. Steel-tip darts use metal points for bristle boards; soft-tip darts use plastic tips for electronic boards. Beginners do not need complicated point changes straight away, but they should understand the terminology before buying replacements.
FAQ
Are dart tips called points?
Yes. “Point” is the more precise equipment term.
Can you replace steel dart points?
Often yes, but you may need a proper point tool.
Are soft tips plastic?
Yes, soft-tip darts use plastic tips for electronic boards.
Do sharper points reduce bounce-outs?
Sometimes, but overly sharp points can damage the board. Clean grip matters more than extreme sharpness.
