News

Over the past few years, steel darts have evolved towards greater flexibility and customization. Replacing dart points once required a traditional repointing tool, considerable effort, and carried the risk of damaging either the barrel or the point itself. Today, an increasing number of manufacturers offer threaded steel dart point systems, allowing players to change points quickly and easily without the need for specialist equipment.

The best-known systems currently available are Target Swiss Point, Harrows Quick Point, Winmau Switch Point, and Bull's Convertible Point. Although each manufacturer has developed its own solution, they all share the same goal: allowing players to change point length, profile, grip, or finish to suit different dartboards, playing conditions, or personal preference.

Target introduced the patented Swiss Point system, Harrows followed with Quick Point, Winmau developed the Switch Point system, and Bull's entered the market with Convertible Point. More recently, manufacturers have begun improving cross-compatibility between their systems, giving players greater flexibility than ever before.

Why isn't every system fully compatible?

When it comes to threaded steel dart points, there are two completely different types of compatibility.

The first is point-to-barrel compatibility—whether a point can physically be installed into a particular barrel. This depends on the thread design, drilling depth, and the length of the unthreaded section behind the thread.

The second is tool-to-point compatibility. This depends entirely on the drive interface machined into the point itself and has nothing to do with the barrel.

In other words, a point may fit perfectly into a barrel but still require a different tool for removal.

Table 1: Point → Barrel Compatibility

Important note regarding Winmau barrels

There are currently two generations of Winmau Switch Point barrels.

Older Switch Point barrels are generally not compatible with Target Swiss Point points due to their shallower internal design. However, the latest Winmau Universal Switch Point barrels have been redesigned for broader compatibility and officially accept both Target Swiss Point and Harrows Quick Point systems.

If you are unsure which generation you own, always check the manufacturer's specifications or your barrel model before purchasing replacement points.

Table 2: Tool → Point Compatibility

Tool compatibility depends solely on the drive interface of the point.

The Target Swiss Point tool is designed exclusively for Swiss Point points. Harrows and Bull's tools cover a wider range of compatible systems thanks to their similar interface design, while the Winmau tool is intended for Switch Point points but can also remove Target Swiss Point points.

What does this mean when buying replacement points?

Before purchasing new threaded points, always identify which barrel system you own. If you are buying a replacement tool, focus on the point system, not the barrel manufacturer.

One of the most common misconceptions is that all threaded steel dart point systems are interchangeable. While many are compatible, they are not universally interchangeable, and there are still important differences between manufacturers.

Choosing the correct combination of barrel, point, and tool will ensure proper fitment, easier maintenance, and help prevent unnecessary damage to the point interface.

Final thoughts

Threaded steel dart point systems have transformed the way players customise their darts. Instead of using a traditional repointing tool, players can now change point styles within minutes to suit different playing conditions or personal preferences.

Before making your next purchase, simply remember two questions:

1. Will this point fit my barrel?
2. Do I have the correct tool to remove and install it?

Understanding these two compatibility matrices will help you avoid costly mistakes and make choosing the right threaded steel dart point system much easier.