The recent Winmau treble player launch was a lovely combination for those of us lucky enough to span the darting generations. The stand out model,for me at least, was the 3-Zero Special Edition of the classic Dennis Priestly dart.
You may or may not have noticed but front weighted darts are making something of a return and to see these given the ultra modern treatment of diamond and atomisation grips along with a presentation that celebrates the 30 years since Dennis captured that first PDC (WDC) World title, seems like the perfect conclusion.
Being aware of my bias toward these classic darts AIM asked our friend and tour player AJ Urmston Toft to test these with us.
- Product: Darts (Steel Tip)
- Brand: Winmau
- Model: Dennis Priestley Diamond 3-Zero
- Variation: 22g
- Material: 90% Tungsten (Part Diamond Fusion Coated)
- Price: £79.95
Open The Box:
The Priestley 3-Zero set comes in a special edition packaging which contains three of the special editions barrels together with a celebratory set of Prizm foil flights and black Prizm stems. This was a very effective and simple set up. Our testers also found that a longer stem and larger area flight was also very effective.
Specifications:
The darts come in 19, 22 and 24g. They are 90% tungsten, and are weighted towards the front of the barrel, which is where the diamond grip is focused.
The dimensions for the 22g set are 7.60mm x 48.26mm, while the only difference with the 24g set is the maximum width, which is 7.85mm, so a 0.15mm increase.
Initial Impressions:
All of our testers were very impressed with the new looks and the idea of adding layers/areas of grip to the time tested ‘Menace’ barrel. The trio of grips are instantly obvious and clearly demarcated to enable you to see if it will suit your hold style.
The cosmetics and packaging all suggest a true mix of the classic and ultra modern. Dennis’s black and red styling is a major theme and several special touches are included.
Tester Comments:
“These are very well balanced and ideal for anyone who holds near the front of the barrel where the diamond grip is superb…” ( AJ Urmston-Toft)
“The fact that these now could suit almost any style of grip is a big change for this model. Front weighted can be a good leveller for progressing players, so totally worth a try…”(Coach)
Verdict:
Priestley 3-Zero are a superbly upgraded dart and have clearly been designed and executed as both homage and progression! They can be thrown in many different ways and might really suit if you’ve used, or are currently using a straight or parallel barrel and feel the need for a little more control or, this special edition may be worth considering if you’re already using a front weighted barrel and seek more grip.
Value and availability:
The darts are available directly from Red Dragon Darts’ website and retail at £79.95. Although this is nearer the premium end there is a very good reason for that as they are a very unusual and tech heavy dart. Our test team suspects that as these wear in they will prove even better!
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180 Review: Dont forget to catch our 180 second reviews for this and other recent releases on our youtube channel
