Darts is a game enjoyed by millions of players, and it has come a long way since its inception, with the evolution of darts and its equipment changing over time. In this article, we are about to look at the history of steel tip darts, and how the game has evolved over time.
Early Origins of Darts
Darts is believed to have originated in the late Middle Ages in England. The game was initially played with crossbow bolts, which were thrown at a target on the wall.
The game evolved over time, with the bolts being replaced by darts made from wood or clay. In the 19th century, darts began to be made from brass, which was a more durable and long-lasting material.
The Introduction of Steel Tip Darts
The introduction of steel tip darts in the early 1900s was a significant moment in the evolution of the game. Steel tip darts replaced the wooden and brass darts that were previously used.
“I was born at the right time. I was a freak – the only young player when darts took off in the 1970s.”
Eric Bristow
The new darts were more durable, accurate, and consistent, making them popular with players. They were also safer than the previous darts, which had sharp points that could cause injury.
The Development of Dartboards
The evolution of steel tip darts also led to the development of dartboards. Early dartboards were made from wood and had various designs, including circles, squares, and diamonds.
In the 1930s, the modern dartboard, which features a circular design with numbered sections, was introduced. This design is still used today and is the standard for all professional darts competitions.
The Emergence of Professional Darts
The 1960s saw the emergence of professional darts. The game had become increasingly popular in pubs and bars, and there was a growing demand for professional competitions. The British Darts Organisation (BDO) was formed in 1973, and the first World Championship was held in 1978. Today, professional darts is a multimillion-dollar industry, with players competing in tournaments all over the world.
The Evolution of Equipment
Over the years, the equipment used in darts has continued to evolve. Steel tip darts are now available in a variety of materials, including tungsten, nickel-silver, and brass.
The weight, shape, and grip of darts have also evolved, with players using darts that are custom-made to their specific preferences. Dartboards have also undergone changes, with electronic dartboards becoming increasingly popular.
The evolution of steel tip darts has been a long and fascinating journey. From its origins as a game played with crossbow bolts to the emergence of professional darts, the game has continued to evolve over time. Today, darts is a popular pastime enjoyed by millions of people around the world. The game’s rich history and evolution serve as a reminder of its enduring popularity and appeal.