The Clear Dart medicating darts are engineered with tight tolerances to ensure universal compatibility with .50 caliber (1/2 inch / 13mm) dart guns. While this makes them exceptionally versatile, it also means they require more pressure than some other dart brands to function optimally. If your dart gun isn’t providing the necessary velocity upon impact, the triple-wall plunger may not activate, preventing proper medication delivery.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to maintain optimal CO₂ levels and pressure in your dart gun to ensure reliable performance every time.

Understanding CO₂ Usage and Pressure Requirements

Why Clear Dart Uses More Pressure

1. Tighter tolerances: Ensures a secure fit across different dart gun brands but requires more force to propel the dart.
2. Universal compatibility: Designed for both CO₂-powered and manual pump dart guns, meaning adjustments in pressure are sometimes necessary.
3. Triple-wall plunger activation: Requires sufficient velocity upon impact to deliver medication effectively.

CO₂ Consumption in Pressurized Dart Guns

Dart guns powered by CO₂ deplete their gas supply with every shot, and due to Clear Dart’s design, each shot may use slightly more CO₂ than other brands. Here’s how to ensure consistent performance:

• Monitor CO₂ levels regularly – A partially depleted canister will produce weaker shots, affecting dart velocity.
• Replace CO₂ canisters proactively – If you notice reduced power, swap out your canister before it’s completely empty to maintain consistent pressure.
• Store canisters properly – Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent leaks or pressure loss.

Maintaining Pressure in Manual Pump Dart Guns

If you’re using a manual pump dart gun, achieving the right pressure is critical:

• Expect to use more pumps – Since Clear Dart darts need higher velocity, increase the number of pumps compared to other darts.
• Follow manufacturer recommendations – Over-pumping could damage seals, while under-pumping will reduce velocity.
• Test before each use – Fire a test shot into a soft target to confirm the dart reaches full speed before medicating livestock.

Troubleshooting Low Velocity Issues

If your dart fails to activate the triple-wall plunger, check for the following:

✅ Low CO₂ Pressure – If using a CO₂-powered dart gun, replace or recharge the canister.
✅ Insufficient Pumps – If using a manual pump, increase the number of pumps for more force.
✅ Improper Dart Fit – Ensure the dart is fully seated in the barrel before firing.
✅ Obstructions in the Barrel – Clean the barrel to remove any debris that could slow the dart.
✅ Leaking Seals or Worn Components – Inspect for air leaks, which could reduce power output.

Final Tips for Optimal Performance

✅ Keep spare CO₂ canisters on hand to avoid pressure drop mid-use.
✅ Test your dart gun regularly to ensure it maintains proper pressure levels.
✅ Adjust pumping technique based on environmental factors (cold weather can affect CO₂ performance).
✅ Store darts properly to prevent damage that could increase air resistance.

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure that your Clear Dart medicating darts operate at peak efficiency, delivering medication accurately and effectively every time.