How to Play Darts: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

To start playing, you need to know the rules for scoring and how a standard game, such as 501, is structured. A standard dartboard is divided into 20 numbered sections, scoring from 1 to 20 points. Hitting the bullseye or the outer rings can score higher points, with the ultimate goal of reducing your score to exactly zero before your opponent. This goal demands precision and a steady hand, and by playing regularly, you’ll discover ways to improve your throwing technique and overall strategy. Setting up a dartboard at home allows for practice and the option to play friendly games with friends and family, further enhancing your darts experience.

Key Takeaways

• Darts is an accessible and enjoyable game that can be learned and refined over time.
• Knowing the rules and scoring system is crucial for playing and getting better at the game.
• Regular practice and social play are key to enhancing your darts skills.

Understanding the Dartboard

Before you step up to the oche, getting to grips with the dartboard’s layout is key. This setup is designed for precision and challenge, comprised of distinct scoring sections labelled with numbers and divided by rings and wires.

Board Setup

The traditional dartboard is known as a ‘clock’ board due to its resemblance to a clock’s face. Your board should be securely mounted with the bullseye exactly 5 feet 8 inches (1.73m) from the floor. The standard throwing distance, marked by the oche or toe line, is 7 feet 9¼ inches (2.37m) from the board’s face.

Dartboard Numbers and Sections

Dartboard numbers are not sequenced sequentially; they are arranged to penalize inaccuracy and reward skill. Spanning from 1 to 20, the 20 scoring sections are sliced by a metal web that divides the board into the various scoring areas.

• Double ring: The outermost thin band, hitting any number here counts for double the value.
• Triple ring: One ring in from the double, scoring triples the number’s value.
• Bullseye: The central point of the board, further divided into:
  • Single bull (sometimes outer bull): The green ring worth 25 points.
  • Inner bull (also known as the double bull): The red or black dot at the center, scoring 50 points.

Each section on the circular board from the bullseye to the double ring accounts for a slice of the 20 segments, numbered to balance risk and reward throughout the game.

Essential Equipment

When gearing up for a game of darts, selecting the right equipment is crucial for both comfort and performance. Whether you’re setting up a game at home or gearing up for competition, you’ll want to ensure you have the best gear suited to your style.

Types of Darts

Darts come in various weights, materials, and grip patterns, so finding the perfect darts for your hand is important. Typically, darts are made from brass, nickel-silver, or tungsten, with tungsten being the most popular due to its durability and slim profile. A proper grip on the dart is essential for precision throwing, which is why darts come with various grip styles, including knurled, ringed, and smooth.

• Brass Darts: Less expensive, good for beginners.
• Nickel-Silver Darts: Slightly more durable than brass.
• Tungsten Darts: Dense and slim, allowing for tighter groupings.

Additional Accessories

Alongside your darts, several accessories can enhance your darting experience:

• Dart Case: To protect and transport your darts, consider a durable case. 
• Flights and Shafts: Personalize your darts and influence their flight path. Flights come in various shapes and textures, while shafts can vary in length and material.
• Dartboard: A quality dartboard is a must-have. Bristle boards are preferred for steel-tip darts, whereas electronic boards are designed for soft-tip darts.
• Oche: The throw line, or oche, marks the distance to stand from the dartboard. Whether it’s a simple piece of tape or a more professional raised oche, it’s an essential guide for proper play.

By choosing the right types of darts and accessories to suit your needs, you’re creating a personal and comfortable playing environment that can help enhance your game. 

The Basics of Darts

Diving into the world of darts begins with mastering the fundamentals, from how you hold the dart to the way you align your body and ultimately release the dart towards the board.

Dart Grip

The grip is crucial when playing darts. Use a relaxed three-finger grip—thumb, index, and middle finger—for control and stability. Make sure not to grip the dart too tightly; a firm yet gentle touch is key. Your grip should allow for a fluid motion when releasing the dart.

Stance and Posture

Your stance forms the foundation of your throw. Stand with your dominant foot slightly forward, shoulder-width apart, toes aligned with the throwing line. Lean slightly forward to get closer to the board while maintaining balance. Your posture should be relaxed but attentive, keeping a straight line of sight to the target.

Throwing Technique

To throw darts effectively, align your dominant hand with your eye to maintain a consistent line of sight. The motion should be smooth, with the elbow creating a right angle and acting as a pivot point. Focus on a fluid follow-through, releasing the dart with your fingers moving along the same line towards the target. Remember, practice makes perfect to refine your throwing technique.

Game Rules and Scoring

Darts is a game where skill and strategy come together. Get ready to learn the essentials of gameplay, including how to track your success with darts in hand.

General Dart Rules

Your adventure in darts begins with the understanding that the game comprises turns, or “innings,” where you throw a set number of darts, usually three, per turn. Players, or opponents, alternate turns and the order of play can be determined by a toss of a coin or a throw of a dart at the board. A key rule is that you must stand behind the “oche”, or the line that signifies the legal throwing distance.

Scoring Basics

Scoring in darts revolves around hitting specific areas of the dartboard, with each section and ring influencing the points earned. Here’s a breakdown:

• The outer large numbered sections score the face value of points (1 to 20).
• The outer thin ring (double ring) scores double the points of the numbered section hit.
• The inner thin ring (triple ring) provides triple the points.
• The very center of the board is divided into the outer bullseye (worth 25 points) and the inner bullseye, or bull (worth 50 points).

Common Dart Games

01 Games like 301 or 501 are the most common and are played by subtracting your scored points from the starting score (301 or 501) to get to exactly zero. Remember, the last dart thrown to reach zero must land in a double or the bullseye, a rule known as “double out”. If your dart lands in a section that reduces your score below zero, or to a number that cannot be finished with a double on the next throw, that’s a “bust”, and your score reverts to what it was before your turn.

Playing a Standard 501 Game

In a standard 501 game of darts, you begin by aiming to reduce your score from 501 to zero before your opponent. Securing a win requires a precise finish with a ‘double out’, and your strategy will be key to nailing the closing shots.

Starting the Game

You kick off your 501 darts game with each player having a score of 501. The order of play is determined either by tossing a coin or by each player throwing a dart at the double bull with the closest having the advantage of going first. Remember, the starting throw can be onto any part of the board unless you’re playing a variation that requires a ‘double in’.

Winning with a ‘Double Out’

To clinch a win in 501, it’s mandatory to hit a double on the dartboard—this means your final dart must land inside the outer double-ring. This rule adds a layer of challenge and requires precision; you cannot simply whittle your score down to zero with any part of the board. Your remaining score must be exactly double one of the numbers on the board to go out and win the game.

Strategies for 501

Your 501 darts strategy might include aiming for high-scoring areas at the beginning, like triple 20, to steeply decrease your score. As you get closer to zero, it is important to plan your throws so that you’re left with a score that can be finished on a double. Common ‘out’ numbers to remember are 40 (double 20), 32 (double 16), and 24 (double 12), as these provide a clear path to victory. Keep your nerves steady and your aim true, especially in the final stages of the game.

Improving Your Dart Skills

To elevate your dart game, you need a blend of skill and consistency. The journey to becoming an experienced player involves dedicated practice that hones your accuracy and stability. Emphasize the quality of practice over quantity to see improvements.

Accuracy and Precision

Accuracy is your ability to hit the targets you aim for, while precision is hitting the same spot consistently. To improve these aspects:

• Stabilize your stance: Ensure your body is balanced and free from unnecessary movement, anchoring your feet in a comfortable position for stability.
• Focus on your throw: Keep your eye on the exact spot you want to hit and ensure that your arm, wrist, and hand are working in concert toward that spot.

Consistency in Play

Consistent performance in darts doesn’t come overnight; it’s the result of continuous, focused practice sessions. Consider these tips:

• Establish a routine: Regular practice with intentional goals refines your skills and builds muscle memory.
• Stay confident: Believe in your ability each time you position yourself at the oche. This confidence can impact your game positively.

Setting Up for Darts at Home

When you’re looking to bring the fun of darts into your home, the most crucial steps involve selecting the right spot and properly installing your dart board. To create an enjoyable and safe environment, let’s focus on choosing the perfect location and securing the board correctly.

Choosing a Location

Your home is your playground, but not every space is ideal for darts. Look for an area with plenty of room so you can establish a clear oche (the throwing line or toeline). Ensure there’s at least 7 feet 9.25 inches from the dart board to the oche, which is the regulation throwing distance. Comfort and safety are vital, so find a spot away from busy walkways and fragile decor.

• Check for Space: Ideally, you have a clear space of 11 feet x 5 feet.
• Wall Protection: Consider adding a backboard to protect your walls from any off-target throws.

Installing the Dartboard

Hanging your dart board at the correct height is key to an authentic darts experience. The center of the bulls-eye should be 5 feet 8 inches off the ground. Make sure the wall you choose is sturdy enough to support the board and that it won’t shake when darts land.

1. Locate the Center: Measure and mark where the bulls-eye center will be.
2. Fix it Firmly: Use a sturdy mount that can handle the weight of the board without wobbling.

By following these directives, you’ll transform a corner of your home into the perfect darts venue.

Dart Games Variations

When playing darts, the versatility of the game allows for various enjoyable variations that can be played solo, with friends, or family. Each game tests different skills and strategies, offering a refreshing change from the standard matches.

‘Round the Clock’

‘Round the Clock,’ also known as ‘Round the World,’ is a fun and straightforward dart game that’s perfect for beginners or as a warm-up exercise. In this game, you have to hit every number on the board in sequence, from 1 to 20. Hitting a number allows you to proceed to the next, but if you miss, you stay on the current number until you hit it. The game ends once you strike all numbers, with an optional rule where you must also hit the bullseye to win.

‘Killer’ and ‘Cricket’

Killer is an exciting dart game variation that requires precision and a bit of mischief. Here’s how you become the “killer”:

1. Each player throws one dart left-handed to select their target number.
2. Once a player hits their assigned number five times, they become a “killer.”
3. As a killer, hitting another player’s number deducts one of their lives, with each player typically starting with three lives.

Cricket is a strategic game that involves both scoring and defense. The objective is to “close out” the numbers 15 through 20 and the bullseye by hitting each three times. Once a number is closed, you can score points on that number until your opponent closes it out as well. Bold moves and smart targeting can be decisive factors in this game, making it a favorite in competitive and casual settings alike.

Playing Darts with Friends and Family

When you play darts with friends and family, it’s all about the enjoyment of the sport and the company you’re with. Whether you’re aiming for a bullseye or just throwing for fun, the key is to have a good time together.

Simple Rules for Fun

The basics of darts are straightforward. Your dartboard has a center bullseye and rings labeled with points values from 1 to 20. Aim your darts at various sections to score points. The main goal is to reduce a set score, commonly starting at 301 or 501, to zero. However, for a casual game with loved ones, you can simply keep track of points without strict adherence to professional rules. Just focus on the fun aspect of the game, rather than the competitive elements. This will make the experience more inclusive and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of skill level.

Here are a few simplified scoring guidelines to get you started:

• Bullseye: 50 points
• Outer Bull: 25 points
• Triple Ring: Triple the number segment’s value
• Double Ring: Double the number segment’s value
• Single Ring: Face value of the number segment

Team Play and Partnerships

Playing in teams can elevate the fun. You can form teams with your friends and family members, creating partnerships that combine beginners with more experienced players, equalizing the playing field and fostering a sense of camaraderie.

To structure your team play:

1. Divide evenly: Make sure teams are balanced in terms of skill and experience.
2. Take turns: Each team member throws their darts one after another.
3. Collective scoring: The team’s score is the sum of all individual scores.

Remember, the essence of team play is support and encouragement. Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been playing darts for years, the shared experience with your team is what playing darts with loved ones is all about. Keep the atmosphere light, offer tips to each other, and most importantly, have a blast hitting those targets together!

Maintaining Your Darts and Dartboard

Proper maintenance of your darts and dartboard is essential to ensure longevity and enjoyable gameplay. Here’s a straightforward guide to keep your equipment in top shape.

Darts

• Check the tips: Regularly inspect for burrs or bends. Remove burrs with a fine sandpaper or a sharpening stone to prevent dartboard damage.
• Tighten the components: Ensure that the shafts and flights are securely attached to avoid wobbling.

Dartboard

• Rotation: Turn your bristle dartboard regularly to prevent wear in one area. If you play often, rotate it once a week.
• Cleaning: Gently clean the surface with a dry cloth. Avoid moisture, as it can damage the board.
• Avoid heat: Keep the board away from direct sunlight and away from heat sources to prevent drying out.

Remember, whether your dartboard is made of bristle or cork, these maintenance steps can largely apply to both materials. Regular care will not only improve your game but also extend the life of your darts and dartboard.

Common Mistakes

When starting out in darts, you might find yourself making mistakes that can hinder your playing. Here’s how to spot and improve these common issues:

• Inconsistent Stance: Consistency is key. Make sure you’re standing in the same position each time you throw; feet flat and body angled for stability.

• Grip Pressure: Too tight or too loose can both negatively affect your throw. Your grip should be firm but relaxed—think of holding a bird without letting it fly away or it getting hurt.

• Improper Follow-Through: A good throw doesn’t end when the dart leaves your hand. Your arm should continue its path toward the dartboard. Fix poor follow-through by extending your elbow fully, pointing directly at your target.

• Rushed Throws: Take your time. Rushing can disrupt your focus and the accuracy of your throw. Practice a consistent rhythm and you’ll see improvement.

• Neglecting the Bullseye: While not always the main goal, practice aiming at the bullseye to improve precision.

• Ignoring Scores and Finishes: Understanding scoring is crucial. Avoid leaving yourself in a position where you can’t finish a game due to a high score. Learn the finishing combinations.

Here is a table of mistakes and fixes:

Remember, making mistakes is part of the learning process. With dedicated practice and these adjustments, you’ll be on your way to a better game.

Frequently Asked Questions

When starting out with darts, you might have some common questions on how to get going, understand the rules, and play safely. We’ve compiled answers to some of the frequently asked questions to help guide you through the beginning stages of learning to play darts.

What is the simplest dart game for beginners to start with?

The simplest game for beginners is 501, where the objective is to reduce your score from 501 to exactly zero before your opponent does. This game allows you to practice scoring and become familiar with the dartboard layout.

Can you explain the scoring system used in darts?

In darts, each segment of the dartboard has a designated point value. Scoring is typically based on the numbers 1 through 20, with doubles and triples multiplying the score of a specific segment. The bullseye has an outer ring worth 25 points and an inner circle worth 50 points.

What is the proper way to keep score in a dart game?

Keeping score in a dart game involves subtracting points based on where your darts land on the board. You must be precise, as reaching exactly zero is necessary to win in most games, and it often requires landing a dart in a double segment or the bullseye. A visible scoreboard is used to track each player’s remaining points.

Safety

Always ensure that the playing area is clear of other people before throwing a dart to avoid accidents. Darts can be sharp and dangerous, so proper handling and storage is crucial for safety. Never point or throw darts in the direction of a person, and keep them away from children.