Bottelsen
Devastator Black Steal Soft Tip Darts
 Devastators are
a great line of stylish and functional darts available
in both silver and black coated styles. The line offers
seven 90% tungsten barrel styles to choose from in 16,
18 and 20gram sizes. Each set includes a set of three
darts, deluxe showcase, an additional set of slim line
flights and tips and a dart wrench.
Our
selection was the “Black Steal Edge Grip”
20gram dart (available in 16, 18 and 20 gram weights).
This dart is a slightly front balanced barrel with a
single deep cut groove in the front and three at the
rear of the barrel. The center grip is a unique grooved
pattern of very shallow circular razor cuts creating
a semi-smooth but very controllable surface. Unlike
the smooth “Black Steal” model, the razor
grip offers a bit more control without heavy knurling
or deep grooves. For darters who love the feel of smooth
darts but are looking for a little more control this
is a dart to try.
The
shafts are anodized aluminum spinning shafts for fewer
deflections when throwing tight groupings. The flights
included are smaller speed flights. In our tests we
used the included flights as well as using larger standard
sized flights. With the larger flights we found a slightly
better response and more stability in flight.
The
included case is a nice deluxe case with an alligator
textured black outer cover. It is a common design and
stores the set completely assembled and ready to play.
Though with time we found that the case did not hold
the darts firmly. We usually prefer using a dedicated
darts case that can be used with multiple sets and that
better fits our accessories. But the included case looks
nice and will certainly impress.
When
selecting darts the appearance should be the very last
consideration. We found the Devastators to be a wonderful
blend of function and appearance. The dark barrels and
black and silver shafts offer a menacing dart that looks
as competitive as it is effective to throw. There are
few darts on the market that look this aggressive.
The
balance is set mostly at the center with a slight shift
towards the front. The barrels are no the thinnest on
the market but are very capable of tight groupings while
offering a good solid dart to hold on to. The downside
of the razor grips is that when striking each other
over time the grip does suffer some damage making those
tight groupings a little problematic. While this problem
has not yet effected the set we have used, it could
be a concern over time.  However
ver Bottlesen offers several other models pictured below
that offer different barrel textures to meet your preferences.
Overall
Bottelsen has made a very nice series of soft tip darts
with the Devastator series. In terms of their performance
and quality they rival any darts in their price range.
With the nice addition of the Razor Grip design, these
darts offer a unique and well made alternative. Give
them a try at your local dart shop, you won't be disappointed.
Dartbug Score 5.
| Dartbug.com
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