Review of the Mission Brett Claydon 22 gram Darts

The Mission Brett Claydon 22 gram darts are a popular choice for players seeking a high-quality, professional-level dart. Here's a comprehensive review based on available information:

Overview: The Mission Brett Claydon darts are designed in collaboration with professional darts player Brett Claydon. They feature a straight barrel design with a bull nose and are coated with a striking black and gold PVD finish. The full length of the barrel incorporates radial grooves, providing a consistent grip. These darts are made from 90% tungsten, a dense material that allows for a slim barrel profile while maintaining weight, which is preferred by many serious players for tighter groupings.

Specifications of the 22 gram Darts:

• Weight: 22 grams (also available in 24 grams)
• Material: 90% Tungsten
• Length: 51.0 mm
• Diameter: 6.10 mm
• Grip Type: Radial Grooves
• Grip Level: Approximately 3.5 out of 5 (medium to slightly aggressive)
• Barrel Profile: Straight
• Front Profile: Bullnose
• Coating: Black and Gold PVD
• Balance: Centre weighted
• Thread Type: 2BA
• Supplied with: Mission Griplock shafts (short, white), Mission 100 Micron No.2 flights, and a point protector.
• Match Weighted: +/- 0.05g

Key Features and Performance:

• Grip: The radial grooves along the entire barrel offer a consistent and reliable grip. Reviews suggest the grip is more aggressive than initially expected but not excessively so, providing a good balance of control without being too abrasive. This type of grip is generally suitable for players who prefer to have consistent finger placement.
• Barrel Design: The straight barrel with a bull nose is a classic and versatile design that suits a wide range of throwing styles. The slim profile, thanks to the 90% tungsten, allows for closer groupings and potentially higher scoring.
• Balance: The centre weighting of the dart promotes a stable and predictable flight path, which can benefit players who have a neutral release.
• Aesthetics: The black and gold PVD coating gives the darts a visually appealing and professional look. The contrast between the black and the exposed tungsten from the machining process is often highlighted as a sharp and attractive feature. The Mission logo is laser-etched onto the rear of the barrel, adding to the overall aesthetic.
• Flights and Shafts: The included Mission Griplock shafts and 100 Micron flights are standard, quality components. However, some users might prefer to experiment with different lengths or types of shafts and flights to fine-tune the dart's flight characteristics to their personal preference. One reviewer mentioned they would personally opt for a longer stem.
• Durability: Made from 90% tungsten, the barrels are expected to be durable. The PVD coating, while adding to the look, can be susceptible to chipping over time with regular use and collisions with other darts.

Pros:

• High-quality 90% tungsten construction.
• Consistent and effective radial groove grip.
• Attractive black and gold finish.
• Well-balanced for a stable flight.
• Suitable for a wide range of players due to the classic straight barrel design.
• Good value for a pro player dart.

Cons:

• The level of grip might be more aggressive than some players prefer.
• The included short shafts might not suit all throwing styles.
• PVD coating can be prone to chipping over time.

Overall:

The Mission Brett Claydon 22 gram darts are generally well-received as a great all-around set suitable for both amateur and professional players. The combination of a high tungsten content, a consistent grip, and an appealing design makes them a strong contender in their price range. They offer a professional feel and performance, and while personal preferences for setup (shafts and flights) may vary, the core design of the barrel is solid and well-regarded. If you prefer a medium to slightly aggressive grip and a classic straight barrel, the Mission Brett Claydon darts are definitely worth considering.