Harrows Pro Matchplay 2 Review
My Harrows Pro Matchplay 2 test: analysis & comparison
CompetitionMy analysis
My review of the Harrows Pro Matchplay 2
The Pro Matchplay 2 is the classic Pro Matchplay, taken up a notch. Harrows keeps the recipe that made the original model a success, but upgrades to an ultra-thin knifewire spider and a premium sisal. The result is a more demanding board, built for players who have outgrown the Pro Matchplay v1 and want to progress without switching brands.
My test of the Harrows Pro Matchplay 2 on the oche
On the oche, the difference with the v1 is most noticeable on darts hitting the spider: the ultra-thin knifewire leaves much less room for bounce-outs. The board feels denser and more consistent, closer to what you'd expect from a competition-oriented model.
Durability of the Harrows Pro Matchplay 2
With a 7/10 score, durability sits in the upper-average range for sisal boards at this level. The premium sisal holds up well to repeated sessions, but like any sisal board, it will need regular rotation to keep its performance over time.
Setup and mounting the board
Standard ~17.75" diameter (WDF standard), so it's compatible with most wall mounts on the market. Nothing to report on the mounting side, it installs just like any classic sisal board, with no particular constraint.
Price and value for money
I estimate it generally between €45 and €55 (adjust based on retailer), a fair budget for a premium version that justifies its gap over the classic Pro Matchplay through the ultra-thin knifewire spider and premium sisal. The value for money holds up well for anyone specifically looking for that step up.
Verdict: should you buy the Harrows Pro Matchplay 2?
Yes, if you already own the classic Pro Matchplay and feel its limits in terms of bounce-outs. The Pro Matchplay 2 is a direct, coherent evolution: same brand philosophy, but with an ultra-thin knifewire spider and premium sisal for a more demanding board. For a first purchase with no point of comparison, the v1 remains just as valid a choice and cheaper; the v2 is for those who want to take the next step.
Criteria breakdown
Durability
The Pro Matchplay 2 scores 7/10 on durability thanks to its premium sisal, which holds up well under intensive sessions. It sits in the upper-average range for boards in this segment, without aiming for the very top tier on this specific criterion. Regular board rotation is still recommended to preserve performance over time.
Finish
Finishing scores 7/10, a solid but not exceptional result. There's nothing wrong with the essentials, but this isn't the criterion where the Pro Matchplay 2 stands out most against premium competitors.
Visual clarity
Visual comfort sits at 7/10, a satisfactory level for regular use. Segment readability remains good, though it isn't the standout feature of this board compared to its excellent anti-bounce score.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Ultra-thin knifewire spider that significantly reduces bounce-outs
- Premium sisal for better long-term durability
- Notable upgrade over the classic Pro Matchplay on bounce-outs
- Tournament standard dartboard, suitable for competition use
- Excellent anti-bounce score (8/10) that makes it a genuine selling point
Cons
- Finishing and visual comfort are only decent (7/10), not a standout feature
- The upgrade is most relevant for existing Pro Matchplay owners, less obvious as a first purchase
Frequently asked questions about the Harrows Pro Matchplay 2
The Pro Matchplay 2 switches to an ultra-thin knifewire spider and uses a premium sisal, unlike the classic Pro Matchplay. That ultra-thin wire significantly reduces bounce-outs. It's a direct evolution of the original model, not a completely different board.
The ultra-thin knifewire offers a much smaller contact surface on the segment dividers, a common source of bounce-outs. This noticeably reduces darts ricocheting off the dividers. Note: a staple-free construction, present on the v1 only around the bullseye, is not confirmed by Harrows for the full spider of this v2.
It's presented as a tournament standard dartboard (compliant dimensions and segments), which makes it suitable for competition use. Harrows does not advertise a specific official PDC/WDF/BDO certification for this model.
It's aimed primarily at players who already own the classic Pro Matchplay and want a more demanding board with fewer bounce-outs, without switching brands. For a first purchase, the v1 remains just as valid an entry point.
Expect generally between €45 and €55 depending on the retailer (estimate, adjust as needed), a fair price for a premium version justified by the ultra-thin knifewire spider and premium sisal.
Player reviews Harrows Pro Matchplay 2
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