Red Dragon Luke Humphries Blue & Yellow Special Edition Darts Review

The Red Dragon Luke Humphries Blue & Yellow Special Edition Darts, likely released around 2022 as a part of Luke Humphries' signature range, are designed to reflect the playing style and preferences of the now World Number One darts player. Here's a comprehensive review based on the available information:

Barrel Design and Material:

• Material: These darts feature a 90% tungsten barrel. Tungsten is a dense metal, allowing for a slimmer barrel compared to darts made of brass or steel of the same weight. This slim profile is advantageous for achieving tighter groupings on the dartboard, increasing the chances of hitting high scores. The remaining 10% is typically nickel, which is added to the tungsten to prevent the dart from becoming brittle.
• Shape: The barrel has a torpedo profile, which is a common design known for its front-weighted feel. This shape tends to suit players who prefer a smoother release and allows for a good amount of contact surface for gripping.
• Grip: The grip on these darts is described as a multiple ring grip, offering a mid-level of grip. The design includes both thinner and wider spaced radial grooves along the barrel. The thinner grooves towards the rear offer a subtle grip, while the wider grooves past the centre provide more distinct feel and surface area for the fingers. The front of the barrel tapers down with tightly spaced thin radial grooves, providing a minimal grip at the front. This variety in grip zones can cater to different gripping styles along the barrel.

Weight and Dimensions:

• The darts are available in different weights, typically including 22g and 24g for the steel tip versions.
• The barrel dimensions for the 22g version are approximately 43.2mm in length and 7.13mm in width. The 24g version has a similar length of 43.2mm and a slightly wider diameter of around 7.6mm. These dimensions contribute to the dart's balance and feel in the hand.

Flights and Shafts:

• Flights: The darts come with Luke Humphries' "Cool Hand" design Hardcore standard flights. These flights feature an icy blue and white colour scheme with geometric lines resembling a snowflake, tying into his nickname. The Hardcore flights are made from an extra-thick material with a glossy UV coating for durability and visual appeal.
• Shafts: They are equipped with Nitrotech polycarbonate short shafts. These shafts are chosen for their classic look and durability, complementing the overall aesthetic of the dart. The short length contributes to the dart's stability and flight characteristics.

Aesthetics and Special Edition:

• The "Cool Blue Special Edition" name is reflected in the blue and silver colour scheme of the barrel, often with blue titanium nitride coating for enhanced durability and a striking appearance. Yellow detailing on the rear section, adds to the visual appeal.
• The packaging and possibly the included wallet also feature the "Coolhand" branding and Luke Humphries' signature, making them a special edition item for fans and players who admire his style.

Performance and Suitability:

• The front-weighted torpedo shape, combined with the strategically placed grip zones, is designed to suit Luke Humphries' throwing style, which emphasizes a smooth release and a balanced flight.
• The 90% tungsten content ensures a dense and slim barrel, allowing for closer groupings and reduced obstruction on the dartboard.
• The mid-level grip caters to a wide range of players who prefer a balance between a very aggressive and a completely smooth feel.

Overall Impression:

The Red Dragon Luke Humphries Blue & Yellow Special Edition Darts are a well-designed set of darts crafted to the specifications of a top professional player. The 90% tungsten barrel offers a slim profile and good durability, while the combination of different grip zones provides versatility for various throwing styles. The signature "Cool Hand" aesthetics on the flights and potentially the barrel make them a visually appealing and personalized choice for players looking for high-quality darts endorsed by a leading figure in the sport. These darts are likely suitable for intermediate to professional players who appreciate a front-weighted dart with a balanced level of grip.