Hammer Head darts are associated with Bottelsen’s movable-point system. When shopping, identify the complete model code and weight first: the family name alone does not establish the barrel, finish, shaft fitting or replacement parts.
The most useful comparison is between an accurately identified set that suits your grip and one you can continue to maintain. A long list of similar names is less helpful than confirming exactly what the seller will supply.
What the Hammer Head point system does
Bottelsen’s manufacturer catalog describes a retracting point intended to move past a board wire, then be driven forward by the barrel. This is the maker’s mechanism explanation, not a guarantee of zero bounce-outs.
Do not judge a set by a claim that it will automatically improve your scores. Your comfort with the barrel and the condition of the complete setup still deserve attention.
Exact catalog variants to use as identity references
These Bottelsen specifications are catalog references, not confirmation of current stock. Match the full code, rather than treating every similarly named listing as the same dart.
| Bottelsen variant | Code | Listed weight | Tungsten | Point system |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xtreme Originals | 249XBK | 24 g | 90% | Hammer Head |
| Xtreme Devastators | 25XD5BK | 25 g | 95% | Hammer Head |
| Xtreme GT Plus | 245GT+BK | 24 g | 90% | Hammer Head |
Check the variant matrix in the Bottelsen catalog. A listing that omits the code or mixes different material percentages needs clarification before purchase.
Keep the advertised weight convention in mind, too. Ask whether a seller’s measurement refers to the barrel, barrel-and-point combination or assembled dart. Do not compare an unexplained package weight with a playing weight.
Compatibility: check the front and rear separately
Replacement point assemblies
The catalog identifies Standard Hammer 0305, longer Medium Hammer 0305M and rotating Roto Hammer 0305R as different assemblies. It also lists replacement clip 0306 and says Hammer Head mechanisms use O-rings.
Order against the existing assembly and a confirmed compatibility reference. A bare point, a clip and a complete mechanism are different purchases. Ask for a photograph of the package label and a clear list of included parts if a listing is vague.
Shaft fittings
Bottelsen specifically distinguishes GT Plus, which takes a 2BA shaft, from GT. Do not assume every dart carrying the GT name takes the same shaft. The catalog also separates its fixed-point Great White range from Hammer Head.
These are practical reasons to record both ends of your set before buying spares. A replacement shaft fitting correctly at the rear tells you nothing about whether a point assembly is appropriate at the front.
Similarly, do not assume that another brand’s threaded point system is interchangeable. Target’s own compatibility guidance, for example, treats Swiss Points as a system designed for its corresponding barrels. A familiar-looking thread or a retailer’s broad keyword match is insufficient evidence.
Choosing a set you can actually keep using
- Start with a known weight: use a setup you already find comfortable as a comparison, then change one variable at a time.
- Check grip position: ask for clear barrel photographs and dimensions. Decide whether the available grip area matches where you naturally hold a dart.
- Verify all three darts: for a used set, request photographs of the complete set and ask about mismatched points, bent shafts or substituted components.
- Price the spares before the set: confirm that the correct point assemblies and shafts can be sourced. An attractive purchase price is less useful if an essential replacement cannot be identified.
- Read the return terms: establish what happens if the supplied weight, model code or tip system differs from the listing.
If a seller cannot establish model identity, do not resolve the uncertainty by choosing whichever product photograph looks closest. Ask for the original packaging, receipt or a specialist inspection.
Maintenance limits for older or unfamiliar sets
Check for damaged flights, visibly bent shafts, loose external fittings and damaged point components before play. Stop using a dart with a sticking mechanism, missing part or uncertain repair.
For routine storage, keep the set dry and protect the points in a suitable case. Use a soft dry cloth for a light surface wipe. Seek model-specific instructions before taking apart a movable-point assembly, adding lubricant, applying thread-locking compound or attempting an internal repair.
Cleaning advice is also finish-dependent. Target explicitly limits its servicing kit to uncoated barrels because it can damage coatings. That is a useful reason not to assume any general-purpose dart-cleaning kit is suitable for a coated Bottelsen set.
No verified Bottelsen service procedure is provided here for internal lubrication, tightening torque or mechanism rebuilding. If the correct instructions are unavailable, ask a darts specialist to inspect the set rather than improvising.
Frequently asked questions
Are all Hammer Head darts the same?
No. Treat the full product code, stated weight and supplied parts as the identity of the set. Similar family names are not enough to establish compatibility.
Does a movable point prevent every bounce-out?
There is no such guarantee in this guide. The system has a stated design purpose, but no independent performance comparison is established here.
Can I buy replacements just by matching the weight?
No. Record the dart model and the component being replaced. Weight does not identify a point assembly, shaft thread or included hardware.
Bottom line
Choose Hammer Head darts by exact identity and supportability. Confirm the model code, clarify the weight, verify the point assembly and check shaft compatibility before buying either a set or its spares.
