Do you like playing darts and like spending your time playing with friends? If so, you’ve probably considered owning your own board and must have wondered what are some of the best boards available on the market. Some of the most popular boards are bristle dartboards. However, if “bristle” is not a term you’re familiar with, no problem, that’s why we’re here for. In this article, you’ll find out all you need to know about bristle dartboards in general. What is a bristle dartboard, why and in which case should you choose it as your go-to board, and many other important details. Also, there’s a list of some of the best bristle dartboards at the end of the article. We hope this will help you choose the best bristle dartboard based on your interest and skill level!
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What is a bristle dartboard?
A bristle dartboard is constructed of many horsehair like fibers designed to absorb an impact from a dart while supporting the dart so that it sticks in the board. This type of board dates back to the very beginnings of the game. It is also important to note that bristle dartboards are mainly used at professional tournaments. Typically these boards are best suited for the people who are serious about darts, and play often. This kind of dart board is also the most durable type of dart board thanks to the impact resistant fibers they’re made of.
Although they are named bristle, bristle dartboards are actually made of sisal or hemp. The sisal fixes itself after a dart hits it, which makes it a great material for dartboards.
When it comes to measurements, a standard bristle board is 18 inches in diameter and has 20 numbered, segments of equal size which make a shape of a pie, plus the bulls-eye.
The darts used with a bristle dartboard are mainly steel tip, while their body is made of brass or tungsten. These darts can be dangerous for young or inexperienced dart players so caution must be used. However, these darts provide a truly authentic playing experience. Recent advancements in bristle dartboards allow for them to accommodate soft tip darts as well, which we will discuss more later in the article.
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Bristle dartboard vs cork
Now that we’ve mentioned the essential facts and information regarding a bristle dartboard, the time has come to do some comparison. That being said, we’ve chosen to do the comparison of bristle and cork dartboards. Their pros and cons are available in continuation.
When comparing cork and bristle dartboard, the first thing that comes to mind is their durability. It is safe to say that bristle dartboards are by far more durable than the cork ones. Why so? Well, the aforementioned sisal fibers are virtually indestructible, and rebound back in place after you pull out the darts from the board. On the other side, a cork dartboard is far more fragile, so to speak. For example, if you throw a dart in it, and later pull it out, the impact of the dart will be clearly visible. That’s why, it will be much harder to play for many years on the cork board, and there might come a time when the board needs to be replaced as darts won’t stick as well. Another thing to consider is the protection of your wall. Just as with the previous case; the durability and the density of a bristle dartboard make it a much safer choice for your wall than a cork version. Of course, you can always buy a dartboard backing, but in case you don’t want one, a bristle dartboard is certainly a better option.
Finally, as previously mentioned, bristle dartboards may be able to accommodate both steel and soft tip darts, while although you can use both steel and soft tipped darts on a cork dartboard as well, it is not advisable due to the aforementioned impact marks left behind by the darts.
At the end of the day; we can easily say that bristle dartboard vs cork was an interesting but somehow one-sided battle.
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How to pick a bristle dartboard?
If you’re still wondering what is a bristle dartboard and how to pock the right one; it is time to guide you on how to pick the right bristle dartboard for your needs. When talking about this kind of dartboard, there are many kinds. The key is to choose what suits you best. In other words, You can choose from a simple clock bristle dart board to a bristle dartboard with electronic scoring or an entire bristle dartboard cabinet. When choosing the right one, you must think of the time and the space you have for your hobby. For example, if you don’t have that much space in your home, you should probably opt for a simple bristle dart board. If you have some extra space, a dartboard including scoreboard with possibly a cabinet should be chosen.
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Furthermore, you should take into consideration the fact that nowadays there are bristle dartboards which can accommodate both steel and soft tipped darts. That being said, if you’re a true darts lover, you should invest the money in a bristle dartboard that is suitable for both kinds of tips, no doubt, as it provides you with an even fuller darts experience, giving you the opportunity to have the best of both worlds in just one dartboard.
However, if you’re new in all this, and still find darts just as a good way to pass time, but have a lot more to learn; it would be best to opt for bristle dartboards which are suitable for steel tip darts only, as you will give yourself more time to adapt to both the board and the darts, and you will save some money as well. Then, when you become more experience, you can upgrade your board, or even opt for a dartboard cabinet, for a complete experience.
At last, it is not too much to mention once again; that a bristle dartboard, is used in professional tournaments. Therefore, a professional bristle dartboard, as the name itself suggests, deserves a look for serious players.
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Best bristle dartboards
It is time to list some of the best bristle dartboards out there, so you could choose the best bristle dartboard according to your needs and skill level. Be it a dartboard cabinet, a bristle dartboard with electronic scoring, or a simple bristle dartboard; this list gives you all.
American Heritage Athos Dart Board
This incredible Athos cabinet has a refined crown molding finished in an attractive Sierra stain that goes far beyond the enclosed pub game. It is a professional bristle board with two complete dart sets and a scoring system which will keep your friends entertained for hours. Furthermore, it is perfect for your game room, or any room in your house you’d like to put it in, since thanks to its amazing looks, it will surely complement it perfectly. If you’re a true darts lover and appreciate the full experience of it; this elegant bristle dartboard cabinet is just what you need.
Bullshooter Cricket Maxx 5.0 Electronic Dartboard Cabinet
This 21st-century bristle dartboard cabinet comes with an E-bristle board that that is adaptable to both steel and soft darts. Furthermore, it has a full wood cabinet, as well as built-in dart holders ideal for your game room. Its oversized doors are mounted with an LED display, for an even better experience of it all. It features 37 games and 210 level variations; what more could you ask for.
To finish, it comes with extras like six soft and steel tipped darts, as well as an adapter. It will be a purchase you won’t regret, that’s for sure.
Imperial NCAA Dart Cabinet Set w/Steel Tip Bristle Dartboard
Take your game to the next level from the comfort of your own home. This officially licensed NCAA Dart cabinet set with steel tip bristle dartboard and darts is all you need.
The dartboard cabinet is highlighted by the team logo on dartboard doors. Moreover, the dartboard and interior of the cabinet feature team name and logos as well.
It is constructed from solid pine wood for a classic look and a sturdy profile. To finish it off, it includes an 18-inch bristle dart board, together with six steel-tip darts with the team name on the flights, two chalkboard scorers, chalk, and eraser. It is truly all you need for your great game of darts.
Viper Championship Wood Framed Dartboard Backboard Set
This dartboard set is made Made of MDF with a mahogany finish. Moreover, it includes a black felt backing to protect the wall from missed darts, which is definitely a great feature. It has 1 panel with dry erase scoreboard, as well as one with a removable flight pouch. Furthermore, it holds 4 complete sets of darts & fits most dartboards. As for the accessories, these include a dry-erase marker and mounting hardware. A great price-quality ratio with this one; no space for a mistake here. Your best friend when it comes to making incredible darts memories with the rest of your friends.
Viper Stadium Sisal/Bristle Steel Tip Dartboard & Cabinet Bundle
This great set features a dartboard cabinet, dartboard, steel tip darts, a dry-erase scoreboard, dry erase marker and mounting hardware. The bristle dartboard is of great durability; while its 18-inch diameter makes it an official tournament board. Moreover, the movable ring further extends the dartboard’s lifetime. As an extra, the mounted display light illuminates your dartboard for an easier scorekeeping and the overall game concentration. If you’re a true darts lover, this might as well be your best bristle dartboard. Don’t be afraid to try it, you won’t regret it.
Winmau Blade 5 Bristle Dartboard with All-New Thinner Wiring for Higher Scoring and Reduced Bounce-Outs
This bristle dartboard is a professional bristle dartboard with exclusive British Darts Organization (BDO) endorsement. It boasts an increased scoring area with 14% thinner wiring system than the previous generation Blade 4, which overall gives it a higher scoring potential. Moreover, it reduces bounce-outs and has an improved dart deflection with a 30-degree reduction in a razor wire angle. What’s even more fascinating; is its incredible durability with Carbon Diffusion technology in bullseye ring for stronger steel. This bristle dartboard certainly is all one true professional, or even a devoted amateur might need when it comes to darts equipment.
TG Beveled Wood Dart Cabinet – Pro Style Board and Darts
This wood dart cabinet would be an excellent addition to your game room. To make it even better, the dartboard includes features like a self-healing sisal fiber removable number ring. The dartboard is of official 18-inch diameter and includes 6 steel tip darts. To top it off, this bristle dartboard cabinet includes door mounted dry-erase scoreboard and a check out chart, as well as 2 magnetic markers with erasers. It certainly is all you might want and need form a dartboard cabinet. The only thing you need to do is enjoy the game to the fullest.
Winmau Blade 5 Dual Core Bristle Dartboard
This bristle dartboard, just like the number 6 on the list; is a professional bristle dartboard with exclusive British Darts Organization (BDO) endorsement. It has an increased scoring area with 14% thinner wiring system than the previous models, which then gives it a higher scoring potential all in all. What’s even better, it reduces bounce-outs and has an improved dart deflection with a 30-degree reduction in a razor wire angle. Just as it’s ”sister”; it is a great choice for those players who truly enjoy darts and have some experience in it, since they’ll be able to enjoy the good parts of this bristle dartboard to the fullest.
Hathaway Centerpoint Solid Wood Dartboard and Cabinet Set
This set includes an 18-inch sisal fiber professional bristle dartboard with a removable outer ring. It has a rounded target frame ring to prevent possible bounce outs. Moreover, it boasts a plywood backboard covered in high-quality green velour fabric for an even classier look. Furthermore, it has a dual dry erase scoreboards and dart holders on the inside of each door; as well as high-quality stainless steel cabinet hinges. As an extra, it includes 2 sets of steel-tipped darts. A truly remarkable set giving you everything you need for a great darts experience.
WIN.MAX Blade 18″ Bristle Dartboard Steel Tip Dart Board with Flights, Sharpener, Finger Grip Wax, Darts
This 18-inch bristle dartboard is used in international tournaments, but its popularity is growing in pubs all around the world as well. WIN.MAX dartboards are all equipped with a unique blade system. Thus meaning; blades are much thinner than wire and staple-free as well. A blade wire system provides extra scoring surface and reduces bounce outs, for your higher scoring and much more fun. As it is made of sisal fibers; which are extremely strong and less brittle; when a dart penetrates the board, the tip slides between the fibers and doesn’t puncture them. Therefore, when you pull the dart back out, the fibers automatically reattach to their original position, aking the board truly durable. This is a great choice for anyone enjoying a good game of darts.
Nodor SupaBull2 Bristle Dartboard Equipped with Easy-Turn Steel Numbers for Beginning or Recreational Players
This is an entry-level or a beginners bristle dartboard endorsed by the American Dart Organization. It boasts with a staple-free bulls-eye for maximum scoring; while the self-healing sisal fiber construction makes it even more durable. The movable number ring prolongs the bristle board’s life. To top it off; it is equipped with the easy-turn steel numbers; ideal for beginners or recreational players. Therefore if you’re just starting to discover the incredible game of darts; this bristle dartboard might be the best bristle dartboard for you. Enjoy the game and start making memories with your friends while playing darts.
Viper League Pro Sisal/Bristle Steel Tip Dartboard with Staple-Free Bullseye and Cricket Scoreboard Kit
This steel tip dartboard is constructed from sisal bristle fibers compressed together, thus providing extreme durability. It features a staple-free bullseye which helps to prevent any possible bounce-outs; A movable number ring further extends the dartboard’s life, as well as with some previous models on the list. This board furthermore; is an official tournament size dart board, measuring 18 inches in diameter. To finish it; it utilizes thin, rounded galvanized wires which allow darts to slide off the spider and land in the target area just as needed. It also has a cricket scoreboard with both chalk and eraser, a set of extra steel tips and a mounting hardware for a simple set-up. Just what you need for a good game of darts.
Viper Shot King Sisal/Bristle Steel Tip Dartboard
Just as the previous model; This Viper dartboard is made of sisal bristle fibers compressed together, which gives it a great durability. It has a staple-free bullseye, in order to prevent any bounce-out; a movable number ring extends the dartboard’s life, for your longer enjoyment. This board is an official tournament size board, as well, measuring 18 inches in diameter. What’s even better; it boasts thin, rounded galvanized wires which allow darts to slide off the spider and land in the target perfectly. Great choice for any darts lover.
TG King’s Head Dark Wood Dartboard Cabinet Set
This bristle dartboard cabinet includes a bristle dartboard made of self-healing sisal fibers for a greater durability. It is an 18-inch dartboard, so it is actually a professional bristle dartboard. The set includes six steel tip darts, a door mounted cricket scoreboard and a wall mounting hardware, for an easier set-up. This cheap dart board cabinet set could complement your game room in case you have one in your home, and make your darts experience a whole lot better. So, invite your friends to a game of darts, and let the games begin!
Unicorn Men’s Striker Pdc Bristle Dart Board
This bristle dartboard fulfills all World Champions endorsements. Moreover, it has a staple-free bullseye, a free check out chart, and a free measuring tape. Since it is made of sisal fibers, it has a greater durability and is adaptable to both steel and soft tip darts. It is light and easy to mount on a wall, so it can be put basically anywhere, or even taken with you on trips and gatherings. All you need for a good game of darts at a fair price; with a good price-quality ratio. It is light and easy to mount on a wall, so it can be put basically anywhere, or even taken with you on trips and gatherings. All you need for a good game of darts at a fair price; with a good price-quality ratio. You can’t go wrong with this one.
Final Thought
In the end, we hope this article has been helpful when it comes to information about bristle dartboards. Remember, the choice of the best dartboard is up to you. The important thing is that the bristle dartboard you choose should fit your needs. Whether you choose the entire cabinet or a bristle dartboard with electronic scoring; you can’t go wrong as long as you’re satisfied with it, that’s all that counts at the end of the day!