Bristle Dartboard
Bristle dartboards are normally used for play with steel-tip darts. Introduced by the Nodor Company in the 1930s, the surface is created with tiny fibers called sisal, a grass-like hemp grown in both Africa and China. Its primary characteristic is that the original hole created by the dart closes when removed. The dartboards are known to last a long time due to this characteristic and with the additional feature of the removable outer ring that has numbers, which allows the user to rotate the dartboard so that natural wear is more evenly distributed. It is also used exclusively for professional tournaments in the United Kingdom as well as high-profile tournaments in the United States such as the Las Vegas Classic.
Electronic Dartboard
Electronic dartboards are designed with the same layout as the Bristle dartboard but are constructed with hundreds of holes in each wedge. Used with plastic-pointed darts, each hole is tapered and designed to electronically keep score for one to eight players. The dartboards also have built-in programming that can provide as many as 100 different games including the popular Cricket. Many styles of boards range from simple wall-mounted versions to the arcade types complete with electronic lights and sounds.
Magnetic Dartboard
Magnetic dartboards were designed as a safe alternative for young players. Created with strong magnets instead of dangerous steel tips, the blunt-end plastic darts stick to the board when thrown. Like the electronic boards, there are many styles that range from lightweight and simple portable versions to heavier boards with electronic sounds and lights. The magnetic dartboards are also available in special versions that highlight professional sports including a number of Major League or National Football League teams.