It really depends on you,and how big of a hobby it is for you. You can just find things to make a bg and darts out of anywhere,cheap...can be part of fun don't pass that up. Plus home made might be better depending on your skill,and what's available. But if you have a few bucks, and really want to start shooting at all, i would highly recommend one of the cold steel pro models. I absolutely love mine and is great to shoot. Awesome power compared to smaller caliber bg. Major plus there is great walking stick too...i found the 4 ft model on sale with free shipping and I think I paid a whopping $22. Get a cold steel big bore,and home make you're hunting darts....that's my combo lol