Atlatl Dart Maintenance & Care: Protecting Your Investment

Keep Your Atlatl Darts Performing at Their Best

Your atlatl darts are precision instruments crafted from quality hardwoods. With proper care and maintenance, they'll provide years of reliable performance whether you're practicing, competing, or hunting. Here's everything you need to know to keep your darts in top condition.

Regular Inspection

Before and after each throwing session, take a few minutes to inspect your darts:

• Check the shaft for cracks, splits, or splintering, especially near the nock and point
• Examine the fletching for damage, loosening, or misalignment
• Inspect the point for bending, dulling, or loosening
• Look at the nock for wear, cracking, or deformation

Catching small issues early prevents them from becoming major problems that could affect accuracy or cause complete failure.

Cleaning Your Darts

After each use, especially in dusty or muddy conditions:

• Wipe down the shaft with a clean, dry cloth
• Remove any dirt or debris from the fletching
• Clean the point with a damp cloth if needed
• Never submerge wooden darts in water

For stubborn dirt, use a slightly damp cloth on the shaft, then dry immediately and thoroughly.

Protecting the Wood

Natural hardwood requires some attention to maintain its integrity:

• Avoid moisture: Never store darts in damp environments or leave them outside
• Prevent warping: Store darts horizontally or hanging vertically, never leaning at an angle
• Control temperature: Avoid extreme heat or cold, which can cause wood to expand, contract, or crack
• Apply finish: Periodically treat the wood with a light coat of tung oil, linseed oil, or specialized wood finish to protect against moisture and wear

Storage Best Practices

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining dart straightness and preventing damage:

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Use a dedicated dart rack, tube, or case
• Keep points protected with covers or guards
• Store away from heavy objects that could cause bending
• If storing long-term, check periodically for warping or pest damage

For travel or compact storage, consider our BreakDown Darts, which offer the same performance with easier portability.

Point Maintenance

Your dart points need attention too:

• Field points: Check tightness regularly and re-glue if needed
• Hunting points: Keep sharp with a file or sharpening stone; replace if bent
• Blunt points: Inspect for cracks or deformation
• Always ensure points are securely attached before throwing

If you need replacement tips, our replacement 23/64 tips are designed for easy installation and reliable performance. For maximum versatility, check out our darts with screw-in inserts that make point changes quick and simple.

Fletching Care

Whether you use feather or synthetic fletching:

• Avoid crushing or bending the vanes
• Re-glue any loose fletching immediately
• Replace damaged fletching rather than trying to repair it
• Keep feather fletching dry to prevent matting

When to Retire a Dart

Even with excellent care, darts don't last forever. Replace a dart if you notice:

• Significant cracks or splits in the shaft
• Permanent warping that affects flight
• Severe splintering that can't be sanded smooth
• Structural damage near the nock or point

Using a compromised dart is dangerous and will hurt your accuracy. When it's time for replacements, browse our full selection of dart sets and individual darts.

Quick Maintenance Checklist

After Each Session:

• Wipe down shafts
• Check for damage
• Store properly

Monthly:

• Deep inspection of all components
• Tighten points if needed
• Apply wood treatment if dry

Seasonally:

• Complete overhaul and refinishing
• Replace worn components
• Evaluate for retirement

Final Thoughts

Quality atlatl darts represent a significant investment in your throwing experience. By following these maintenance practices, you'll ensure consistent performance, extend the life of your equipment, and get the most value from your purchase. Remember, a well-maintained dart flies true—and that makes all the difference whether you're aiming for a target or game.

Have questions about caring for your specific dart setup? Feel free to reach out—we're always happy to help you get the most from your equipment.