Paul Nicholson Breaks Down the Paradigm Dart

If you're a darts enthusiast like we are here at Red Dragon then you're in for something special. We’re about to take a closer look at a truly innovative range of darts that not only look striking but also bring a fresh perspective to grip technology and barrel design. Say hello to the Paradigm.

Whether you're a front gripper, back gripper, or someone who holds the dart right in the middle, the Paradigm range has something to offer you. Let’s break it down and explore what makes these darts so unique and potentially perfect for your throw.

The Science Behind the Paradigm

At first glance, the Paradigm looks like a complicated dart  and in some ways, it is. But that complexity comes with purpose. The defining feature of this dart is its dual grip technology, split between the front and back sections of the barrel.

• Rear Grip (Top of the barrel): Features a sandblasted stone-type texture, offering a coarse yet comfortable surface. This is ideal for those who prefer to grip the dart further back.
• Front Grip (Bottom of the barrel): Coated with a sleek onyx finish, this section has a different tactile feel, catering to front grippers who like a smoother release.

Despite the dart’s aggressive-looking diagonal cuts, the Paradigm delivers an unexpectedly smooth feel in the hand. That’s part of the genius behind its design—visual aggression without tactile harshness.

Parallel vs Torpedo

The Paradigm range comes in two distinct barrel shapes, each tailored for different throwing preferences:

1. Parallel Barrel

• Design: Uniform width from front to back.
• Feel: Smooth in the hand, despite the complex grip textures.
• Ideal For: Players who like a longer barrel and prefer consistent taper and balance.

If you're someone who grips the dart from the back or front, you'll benefit from the specific textures in those areas. However, if you're like many players who grip in the middle, you might miss out on the grip tech—unless you adjust your grip slightly.

2. Torpedo Barrel

• Design: A shorter, stumpier profile with more weight focused in the middle.
• Feel: Tapers away at both ends, giving you that classic “torpedo” shape.
• Ideal For: Players who want a compact dart with a centralized weight for a quicker release.

Just like the parallel version, the torpedo shares the same dual grip technology, but the shape provides a different kind of control—especially for those who favor a tighter throw and shorter barrel.

Which Is Right for You?

The beauty of the Paradigm range lies in its versatility. Whether you're looking for a longer, sleeker parallel dart or a compact torpedo with more central mass, there’s a Paradigm for your playstyle.

• Go Parallel if you want a consistent, smooth-feeling dart with room to grip at the front or back.
• Go Torpedo if you prefer a more compact dart with central weighting that aids a snappy release.

No matter your grip, the Paradigm darts offer a blend of precision, aesthetics, and innovation. And yes—they’re proven to score 180s in the right hands.

Final Thoughts

The Paradigm range is more than just a new set of darts it’s a thoughtful reimagining of what grip and balance can mean in high-level darting. With dual coating technology, aggressive styling that feels surprisingly smooth, and two unique shapes to choose from, this is a dart designed for experimentation and performance.

So, will Paradigm shift your game?