Target Takoma Dart Cases: Why They're the Best Value Cases Around

If you're anything like me, you've probably been through a few dart cases before finding one that actually works. Soft pouches that crush your flights. Rigid tubes that don't fit moulded setups. Cases that look the part for about three weeks before the zip gives up on life.

The Target Takoma range has been my go-to for a while now, and with a constant flow of designs dropping I thought it was worth putting together a proper look at three of my favourites: the Ghost Nathan Aspinall, the Bolide and the Cult Envy.

What Makes the Takoma Range Worth Your Time

Every Takoma case is built from a tough EVA shell that keeps its shape in your bag, your pocket or wherever else you chuck it. Inside, the velvet lining protects your barrels from scratches and the elastic strap holds your darts firmly in place so nothing rattles around in transit.

The XL versions hold two full sets of darts (six total) fully assembled, which is the key selling point for me. There are also two zip-locked accessory pouches inside for spare flights, shafts, points or your Swiss Point tool. The standard size holds one set of three darts and has the same pouch setup.

Here's the thing that really matters though: these cases are thick enough to protect moulded flights. If you use moulded or integrated flight systems, you'll know the pain of finding a case that doesn't crush them flat. The Takoma's depth means your flights sit comfortably without being squashed, which alone makes these worth every penny.

The Designs

Ghost Nathan Aspinall

The Asp's signature case is a sharp monochrome number with bold red trim. It features a textured honeycomb-style pattern with "The Asp" branding and Nathan's name embossed into the design. It's easily the most understated of the three, but it looks proper premium in person. The red piping around the edge gives it just enough contrast to stand out without being shouty. If you want something that looks serious and professional, this is the one.

Bolide

The Bolide takes its design cues from Target's Bolide tungsten dart range. It's a black and yellow design with repeating "BOLIDE" typography that fills the entire face of the case. There's a geometric pattern running through the yellow sections that adds some visual interest up close. This one definitely makes more of a statement and it's a proper head-turner at league night.

Cult Envy

Inspired by Target's Cult and Cult Envy dart ranges, this one goes for green and gold on black. The design has an almost camouflage quality to it, with overlapping circles and grid lines in gold over dark green and black tones. It's the most distinctive of the three and has a slightly more luxurious feel to it. If you throw Cult or Cult Envy darts, the matching case is a nice touch.

Pricing

This is where the Takoma range really shines. The XL cases come in at around £19.95 and the standard single-set cases sit at roughly £16.95. For a hard-shell case with velvet lining and room for all your gear, that's seriously good value. You can spend a lot more on dart cases that don't protect your equipment half as well.

Standard vs XL: Which One?

If you only carry one set of darts to the oche, the standard Takoma will do you fine. It holds three fully assembled darts with the same build quality and pocket layout as the XL.

But if you're like most league players and carry a backup set (or like swapping between sets depending on how the night's going), the XL is the obvious choice. The extra few quid gets you room for six darts and slightly larger accessory pouches. For the price difference, I'd always lean toward the XL.

Who Are These For?

Honestly, just about anyone who throws darts regularly. Whether you're playing pub league, super league or just want something better than a cardboard box to keep your arrows in, the Takoma ticks every box. They're particularly brilliant if you use moulded flights or integrated shaft/flight systems, since so many other cases just aren't deep enough to handle them.

They also make a cracking gift for the darts player in your life who's still rocking a battered old pouch from 2015.

The Verdict

The Target Takoma cases are one of those rare products where you genuinely wonder why you'd spend more. They're tough, they look great, they protect your darts properly and they're priced well under £20 for the XL. The Ghost, Bolide and Cult Envy designs each bring their own personality, so pick the one that suits your style and get yourself sorted.

I own all three. That probably tells you everything you need to know.