Troubleshooting Common Issues

Some tips to help make sure you have the best experience possible.

The dart didn’t inject all of the medicine

Check to make sure that the medicine chamber is filled completely and there are no air bubbles. Saline, Vitamin B or other veterinarian approved liquid may need to be added to ensure the proper function of the most crucial function of the dart, the injection of the medication. The chamber needs to be filled with liquid so that no air is in the chamber during detonations or there will be resulting issues..

Clear Dart’s plastic housing is capable of handling extreme pressures when handled appropriately. Always visually inspect your dart before loading into the gun. If the dart was handled correctly and stored in an appropriate container but still has visual cracks choose another dart and report to Clear Dart support.

Check the dart gun’s air pressure to make sure the chamber air pressure is not turned up too high or left open completely.

If you are using .22 Cal charges the green and brown are used normally and the yellow may be too powerful, potentially cracking the dart. Also, visually inspect the inside of your barrel daily by holding into the light to ensure no build-up.

Clear Dart’s plastic housing is capable of handling extreme pressures so something went wrong in the process. Check the meds to make sure they are not too thick or cold to properly travel through the needle into the subject. A smooth injection from the dart requires a thin viscosity of liquid through the ports in the needle. If your meds or the temperature of the liquid prevent the flow of the liquid there will be problems.

Check your dart gun configuration prior to going into the field. Make sure the chamber is charged to somewhere around 10bar as a starting point for testing. Make sure supply is full, turned on and airflow is not inhibited. Also, make sure the gun’s barrel is very clean and free from obstructions. Clear Darts require more chamber pressure and a cleaner barrel surface than standard darts due to their universal design so an adjustment may be required.

The main reason the dart may bounce out is that the dart was not shot with enough velocity and the gel collar was not able to penetrate and lock under the skin. If using a Model 178 pump gun try a few more pumps within the manufacturer’s specification. There is also a possibility that a dart gun’s chamber pressure could be turned up too high and cause a bounce out but this could be visually identified as a problem.

Proper maintenance is essential to keeping your Clear Dart DR1 dart gun, designed and manufactured by Air Venturi, in top working condition. Regular cleaning and lubrication will not only improve accuracy but also extend the lifespan of your dart gun. While these steps can be applied to other dart guns, this guide focuses specifically on the Clear Dart DR1 model.

Safety First: Remove the Pressurized Canister

Before performing any maintenance, always remove any darts from the chamber and also the CO₂ canister to prevent accidental discharge. This is a critical step for safety and ensures you can clean internal components without any risk.

Tools & Supplies You’ll Need

  • Soft, lint-free cloth
  • Cotton swabs or small cleaning brushes
  • Rubbing alcohol or gun cleaning solvent
  • Silicone-based lubricant (avoid petroleum-based products)
  • Compressed air (optional)

Step 1: Cleaning the Barrel

Over time, the barrel of your Clear Dart DR1 can accumulate dust, debris, and residue from dart injections. A clean barrel ensures smooth and accurate dart delivery.

  1. Inspect the barrel – Look inside for any buildup or obstructions.
  2. Use a dry, soft cloth or swab – Gently run a lint-free cloth through the barrel. Avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch the internal surface.
  3. Apply a small amount of cleaning solvent – If there is residue, lightly dampen a swab with rubbing alcohol or a gun cleaning solvent and pass it through the barrel.
  4. Dry completely – Ensure the barrel is free from any moisture before reassembly.

Step 2: Lubricating Moving Parts

Proper lubrication keeps your dart gun functioning smoothly. However, too much oil can attract dirt and cause malfunctions.

  1. Identify key components – The trigger mechanism, bolt assembly, and seals benefit the most from lubrication.
  2. Apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant – Use a cotton swab to apply a light coating on moving parts, ensuring even distribution.
  3. Avoid over-lubrication – Excess lubricant can trap dirt and grime, leading to performance issues.
  4. Wipe off any excess – Use a clean cloth to remove excess lubricant before reassembly.

Step 3: Exterior Cleaning and Inspection

Dirt, dust, and moisture can affect performance, especially if your dart gun is used outdoors.

  1. Wipe down the exterior – Use a dry cloth to remove any surface debris.
  2. Check for loose screws or fittings – Ensure all components are secure and properly aligned.
  3. Inspect the CO₂ canister seal – Look for cracks or damage to the seal that could cause leaks.

Step 4: Reassemble and Test

Once all components are clean and lubricated:

  • Reinsert the CO₂ canister securely.
  • Test-fire a dart in a safe direction to ensure smooth operation.

Final Tips for Long-Term Maintenance

✔ Store in a dry, cool place to prevent rust and wear.
✔ Use high-quality CO₂ canisters to avoid pressure inconsistencies.
✔ Clean after every few uses or if the dart gun is exposed to dust and moisture.
✔ Perform a deep clean monthly if used frequently.

By following these simple maintenance steps, your Clear Dart DR1 will stay in peak condition, ensuring precise and reliable performance whenever you need it. Regular upkeep will extend the life of your dart gun and improve its efficiency, making every shot count!