Short answer: The easiest way to remove a broken shaft is with a broken shaft remover. If you don’t have one, you can use a heated needle to grip the broken piece and carefully twist it out of the barrel.
A dart consists of several parts, and the shaft is one of the most important components. The shaft sits between the flight and the barrel and is usually made from aluminium or plastic. It holds the flight in place and is available in different lengths such as long, medium, inbetween, short and extra short.
Because the shaft is relatively thin, it is also one of the most vulnerable parts of your dart. That makes it more likely to bend or break during regular use.
The shaft connects the flight to the barrel and plays a key role in the balance of your dart. A well-fitted shaft helps keep your throw stable and consistent.
Aluminium shafts can bend over time, while nylon shafts are more likely to snap. This often happens when a dart falls onto a hard surface or when another dart hits the shaft directly.
Since the shaft is screwed into the barrel, a broken piece can remain stuck inside. This makes it difficult to attach a new shaft without first removing the broken part.
When a shaft breaks, a small piece often remains inside the barrel. This prevents you from screwing in a new shaft properly.
The most effective solution is to use a broken shaft remover. This tool is designed to grip the broken piece so you can easily twist it out of the barrel.
It’s a quick and safe method that reduces the risk of damaging the thread inside your barrel.
A broken shaft remover is a small tool designed specifically for removing broken shafts. It is easy to use and works within seconds.
Insert the remover into the broken shaft and gently twist it so it locks into the material. Once it has grip, slowly turn it to remove the broken piece from the barrel.
Make sure you apply steady pressure and avoid forcing it, so you don’t damage the barrel.
If you don’t have a broken shaft remover, you can use a simple alternative method. This works especially well with nylon shafts.
Take a thin needle or another pointed object and heat it slightly. Carefully press the warm tip into the broken shaft inside the barrel.
Let it cool for a moment, then gently twist the object to remove the broken piece. The heat helps the object grip the nylon, making it easier to pull out.
While you can’t completely prevent a shaft from breaking, you can reduce the risk. Choose durable shafts and replace them when you notice signs of wear.
Avoid dropping your darts on hard surfaces and check regularly if all parts are still firmly attached. Small checks can prevent bigger issues during play.
Want to improve your setup even further? Check out our blog about choosing the right dart shafts for your playing style.
