Playing darts is a popular game that I find combines skill, precision, and a bit of friendly competition. When I first began, I quickly realised that the game isn’t just about throwing pointed objects at a board; it’s about consistent technique and practice. My initial approach was straightforward: understanding the basic rules and equipment. A standard dartboard is divided into 20 numbered sections, scoring from 1 to 20 points, with a bullseye in the centre.
Setting up is a critical part of the process, something I took care to do properly. The dartboard must be hung so that the bullseye is 173 cm from the floor, which is eye level for a six-foot person. The throwing line, known as the oche, is where I stand to throw the darts and is 237 cm from the face of the dartboard. It’s essential to keep my feet behind this line during play.
As for the gameplay, the objective is to reduce a fixed score, commonly starting at 501 or 301, to zero, which requires strategic aiming and accuracy. My aim is always consistent, focusing on a segment that maximises my scoring potential, like the treble 20. The key to my improvement was a steady hand, a focused eye, and a good follow-through with each throw. Over time, my consistency improved, and so did my enjoyment of the game.
Getting Started with Darts
In my experience, playing darts is about mastering two key elements: the dartboard itself and the darts you throw. Let’s focus on understanding these fundamentals to set you off on the right foot in the game of darts.
Understanding the Dartboard
The dartboard is where all the action happens. It’s divided into 20 numbered sections, scoring from 1 to 20 points. Each section is further divided by wires running from the small central circle, the bullseye, to the outer circular wire. Scoring a dart in any of these sections earns you the corresponding points.
- Bullseye: The centre of the board, also known as the inner bull, scores 50 points.
- Outer Bull: The ring around the bullseye, scores 25 points.
Sections are split into two areas, separated by a thin wire:
- Single area: The outer segments, which score the standard amount shown.
- Double ring: The outermost thin band around the edge, scoring double the points of the section hit.
- Triple ring: The band halfway between the outer edge and the bullseye, scoring triple the section’s points.
Understanding the scoring areas on the dartboard and their respective values is important for a beginner.
Dart Equipment Basics
When it comes to equipment, a standard dart setup includes a set of three darts. The anatomy of these darts is quite simple: a tip (or point), a barrel for grip, a shaft, and a flight, which stabilises the dart during flight.
Dart Selection:
- Weight: Darts can vary in weight, usually between 20 to 30 grams. Beginners might find heavier darts easier to throw as they can provide more stability.
- Material: Tungsten is a popular choice for dart barrels due to its density and slenderness.
Here’s a succinct breakdown of a dart’s components:
- Tip/Point: Can be steel-tipped for bristle boards or soft-tipped for electronic boards.
- Barrel: The part you grip; typically made of steel, brass, nickel-silver, or tungsten.
- Shaft: Connects the barrel to the flight; made of plastic, nylon, metal or carbon.
- Flight: The fins or wings at the end; they help the dart fly straight.
When selecting a set of darts, ensure they feel comfortable in your hand and the weight suits your throwing style. My advice is to try a few different types before settling on your ideal dart.
Dart Throwing Techniques
Before I get into the nuances of the dart throwing techniques, remember that the key to a successful throw lies in finding a balance between a comfortable stance and grip, focusing on the target, and maintaining a consistent throwing technique through practice.
Stance and Grip
My stance is the foundation of my playing technique. When I approach the oche (line of the ground where you stand to throw darts), I ensure my feet are positioned for maximum balance and comfort. Typically, I stand sideways with my leading foot pointed towards the dartboard, keeping my back foot perpendicular to it. This gives me the stability I need and helps me maintain focus.
As for the grip, I favour the three-finger grip, similar to holding a pencil, which I’ve found offers a nice blend of control and relaxation. I rest the dart between my thumb and forefinger and support it with my middle finger. It’s crucial to hold the dart with a firm touch – not too tight, but with enough control to guide the dart smoothly.
Throwing Technique
Moving on to the actual technique of throwing darts, I start by raising my throwing arm until my forearm is at least horizontal to the ground, and the dart is at eye level. This is where I focus intensely on the target: the specific segment of the dartboard I wish to hit.
When throwing, I keep my arm’s movement smooth and controlled, aiming to release the dart in a fluid motion. I make sure to follow through with my hand moving towards the target, which helps me throw the dart with more accuracy. The snap of my wrist just as I release the dart is subtle yet essential for an effective throwing technique. Consistent practice is paramount to hone these movements into a consistent throw that feels natural and reliably hits the mark.
Playing the Game
When you’re starting out with darts, it’s essential to grasp the basics of gameplay and scoring, in addition to becoming familiar with some popular dart games.
Basic Rules and Scoring
In most dart games, the objective is to reduce your score to exactly zero from a predetermined number, generally 501 or 301. Each player takes turns throwing three darts per round. The score from each throw is subtracted from the player’s total. However, to win, you must reach zero by landing a dart in the double ring—the outermost scoring section of the board—thus making your last shot a ‘double’. It’s imperative to be precise; overshooting past zero resets that turn’s score, and you must try again on your next turn.
A standard dartboard is divided into 20 numbered sections, from 1 to 20. Scoring is based on which section of the board you hit with the darts:
- Singles: The thin outer portions of the board count as one times the number hit.
- Doubles: The thin outer ring scores double the number hit.
- Treble/Triples: The thin inner ring scores triple the number hit.
- Bullseye: The outer bull scores 25 points, and the inner bull, often known as the double bull, scores 50 points.
Popular Dart Games
Cricket is a favourite among dart games and is about more than just scoring points; players aim to “close out” numbers between 15 and 20 and the bullseye by hitting them three times. Once closed, any further hits on these numbers score points until all players close that number. To win, you must close all the numbers and have the highest score — but, if you close all numbers first, you must also outscore your opponent to secure victory.
Round the Clock also known as ‘Around the World’, is another game ideal for beginners practising their aim and board coverage. The goal is simple: hit each number on the board in sequence, from 1 to 20, then finish with the bullseye. It’s a great way to familiarize yourself with the dartboard and develop accuracy.
Killer adds a competitive twist, where players “own” a number on the board after hitting it three times and then aim to hit their opponents’ numbers to ‘kill’ them off, avoiding their own. The last player standing wins.
For a comprehensive list of rules or step-by-step instructions, please check our other articles, where we provide detailed guides for many different dart games.
Improving Your Darts Skills
To excel in darts, I know that a blend of consistent practice and strategic understanding is vital. Enhancing your skills in this game requires a thoughtful approach to both your practice routines and gamesmanship, which includes strategies and etiquette.
Practice Routines
Establishing a practice routine is essential for improving at darts. I recommend beginners to start with simple targets to build consistency and gradually move to more complex combinations. Here’s a practice routine I follow to maintain focus and technique:
- Monday: 20 minutes of aiming at single numbers to improve accuracy.
- Tuesday: 15 minutes of checkout combinations to finesse finishing skills.
- Wednesday: 30 minutes practising grouping by aiming at the 20 segment.
- Thursday: Rest day to prevent burnout.
- Friday: 25 minutes on doubles to sharpen endgame tactics.
- Saturday: Match simulation to prepare for competitive play.
- Sunday: Review and adjust routine based on week’s performance.
Persistency and patience are key here, as it can take time to see significant improvement.
Game Strategies and Etiquette
My approach to game strategies combines learnings from matches and advice from pros. Here are a few tactical aspects I keep in mind while playing:
- Starting games: Aim for high-scoring numbers to gain an early advantage.
- Middle game: Focus on building a lead and setting up for my finish.
- Ending games: Practice my checkouts religiously, as ending the game efficiently is crucial.
Understanding etiquette is also essential in ensuring fair and enjoyable games. This includes:
- Respecting my opponent’s throw by standing back and remaining silent.
- Congratulating my opponent, irrespective of the game’s outcome.
Sticking to these guidelines fosters a respectful environment and is beneficial when you participate in tournaments or even the World Championship. Whether engaged in friendly matches or playing competitively, make it a point to display good sportsmanship at all times.