How to Choose Dart Stems and Flights
Dart stems (also called shafts) and flights play a crucial role in how your dart flies through the air. While they are often overlooked by beginners, the right combination of stems and flights can improve stability, consistency, and overall control.
This guide explains how to choose stems and flights, and clearly breaks down the difference between all-in-one flight systems and traditional (separate) flights and stems.
1. What Do Stems and Flights Do?
Stems
Stems connect the barrel to the flight and affect balance and release
Flights
Flights control lift, stability, and speed during flight
Together, they influence how straight, fast, or stable your dart travels to the board.
2. Choosing Dart Stems (Shafts)
Stem length
Stem length has a big impact on balance and fight behaviour.
Short stems
- Faster flight
- Less stability
- More direct entry angle
Best for:
Faster throwers or players who prefer a direct dart path
Medium stems
- Balanced speed and stability
- Most commonly used
Best for:
Beginners and all round players
Long stems
- Slower flight
- Increased stability
- Higher arc
Best for:
Smoother throwers or players who want maximum control
Stem Materials
Plastic / Nylon
- Lightweight and affordable
- Can flex or break more easily
Aluminium
- More durable
- Firmer feel
- Can loosen during play
Long stems
- Lightweight and strong
- Better vibration reduction
Beginner recommendation: Medium-length nylon or composite stems
3. Choosing Dart Flights
Flights come in different shapes and sizes, each affecting lift and stability
Common Flight Shapes
Standard
- Largest surface area
- Most stability
Best for: Beginners and slower throws
Pear / Kite
- Medium surface area.
- Balanced speed and control
Slim / Speed
- Small surface area.
- Faster flight
- Less forgiveness
Best for: faster, more experienced throwers
Flight Thickness
- Thicker flights last longer and hold shape better
- Thinner flights offer slightly faster flight but wear quicker
4. All-in-One Flights vs Traditional Flights
One of the most common decisions players is whether to use all-in-one flight systems or traditional separate flights and stems.
Traditional Flights and Stems (Separate)
This setup uses a separate stem and flight that slot together.
- Pros: - Wide variety of stem lengths and flight shapes - Easy to customise and replace parts - Generally cheaper to maintain
- Cons: - Flights can pop out - Stems can loosen or break
Best for: Beginners, casual players, and anyone who likes to experiment with setups
All-in-One Flight Systems
All-in-one systems combine the stem and flight into a single moulded piece.
- Pros: - Very stable and consistent - No flights popping out - Improved durability and alignment
-
Cons: - Less customisation - Higher upfront cost - Entire unit must be replaced if damaged
Best for: Players who want consistency, durability, and minimal setup fuss
5. Matching Stems and Flights to Your Throw
- Slower or smoother throw: Longer stems + standard flights
- Faster throw: Shorter stems + smaller flights
- Beginner setup: Medium stems + standard flights
If possible, try small changes one at a time to feel the difference.
Quick Stem and Flight Guide
| Player Type | Stem Length | Flight Shape |
| Beginner | Medium | Standard |
| Smooth thrower | Long | Standard/Pear |
| Fast thrower | Short | Slim/Speed |
Final Thoughts
Stems and flights are about fine-tuning your dart rather than power. The right setup helps the dart fly consistently and land at a comfortable angle in the board.
Beginners are best starting with medium stems and standard flights, then experimenting gradually as their throw develops. Whether you choose traditional flights or an all-in-one systems, consistency and comfort should always come first.
