Plastic
ShaftsPlastic shafts are inexpensive, and available in many colors, but break fairly easily. Materials are usually polycarbonate or nylon, some have replaceable tops for greater longevity.
Composite Shafts
Composite type shafts, like the Alamo or Quiver, have plastic bases that thread into the dart, combined with aluminum or other metal alloy tops that hold the flight. These are excellent shafts, quite durable, and will not vibrate loose as easily as solid aluminum shafts. Generally available with replaceable tops for economy and convenience.
Solid Aluminum Shafts
Solid Aluminum Shafts are more rigid and durable than Plastic or Composite Shafts.These are available in many colorful styles, some with decorative engraved stripes, flutes, or spirals. May tend to vibrate loose, especially on heavy darts. When used with thick flights, such as Dimplex or Nylon, the slots may need to be pried open slightly, with a dart tool or knife blade.
Spinning Shafts
A variety of shaft styles are now available, that allow the flight to turn out of the way when struck by another dart. Spinning shafts do nothing to improve the flight of the dart through the air, but they do allow tighter groups by letting the flights align with each other.
