Darts, a beloved pub game that transcends generations, is a thrilling test of precision, skill, and strategy. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, understanding the rules can heighten your appreciation for this engrossing game. From its intriguing history to the essential equipment and gameplay tactics, let’s explore the nuances of darts.
Darts Explained Simply
Darts is a game played between two or more players, each aiming to reduce their score from a starting point (usually 501 or 301) to zero. Players take turns throwing three darts each, aiming at a circular board divided into numbered segments.
History of the Darts
Darts originated from medieval games resembling archery practice. Soldiers aimed short arrows at tree trunks or barrel bottoms. In the late 19th century, pubs in England adopted a similar game, using arrows thrown at casks or marked walls. Brian Gamlin standardized the dartboard in 1896, leading to the modern layout. It gained pub popularity, leading to standardized rules and professional leagues like the BDO and PDC. Today, darts is a global sport, televised and widely played, transcending its pub origins.
What Equipment will you need?
To play darts, you’ll need a dartboard, which consists of 20 numbered sections, a bullseye, and various scoring regions. Each player uses three darts, typically featuring a steel or soft tip (see below). A safe and open area to throw from, usually around 7 feet from the board, is necessary.
This is a great place to start for some recommended gear!
Types of Darts/ Features of Darts
- Steel-tip Darts: Used for traditional bristle dartboards, with steel points weighing 18-26 grams.
- Soft-tip Darts: Designed for electronic boards, they have lighter, plastic tips (14-20 grams) and shorter barrels.
- Barrel Shapes: Straight or tapered barrels affect weight distribution and flight.
- Grip Style: Knurled, ringed, or grooved surfaces cater to individual comfort and release.
- Flight Shapes: Different sizes and shapes impact stability and dart speed.
- Materials: Darts are made of brass, nickel-silver, or tungsten, with tungsten allowing slimmer barrels.
- Customization: Players often mix and match barrels, shafts, and flights for a personalized setup.
How to Play Darts
Starting Score: Each player starts with a score of 501 or 301 (depends on the agreed-upon game). The goal is to reduce the score to zero.
Throwing Order: Players take turns throwing three darts each, aiming at the dartboard.
Scoring: Points are earned based on where the dart lands on the board. Hitting the outer ring of a number doubles the score, while hitting the inner ring triples it. The bullseye is worth 50 points (inner) or 25 points (outer). Scores are subtracted from the starting total.
Finishing: To win, a player must reach exactly zero points by hitting a double segment (the outer narrow ring) with their final dart. For example, if a player has 32 points remaining, they must hit a double 16 to win.
Bust Rule: If a player goes below zero (scores below 0) or ends with a score that cannot be finished with a double, their turn ends, and their score remains the same as at the start of their turn.
Winning: The player who reaches zero exactly by hitting a double or the bullseye wins the game.
Key Rules of Darts
Darts is very simple game to play and enjoy but if your getting competitive with your mates or checking out your first competition here are some of the nitty gritty rules you should know.
Throwing Distance: Players usually throw from a distance of 7 feet 9 1/4 inches (2.37 meters) from the face of the dartboard. This distance is measured horizontally from the front of the board.
Dartboard Setup: The dartboard should be hung securely on a wall at the regulation height of 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) from the floor to the centre of the bullseye.
Scoring Accuracy: After a player’s turn, the score should be announced clearly and agreed upon by both players or the scorer to ensure accuracy.
Distractions and Interference: Players should not distract or interfere with their opponent while they are throwing. It’s customary to stand behind the throwing line when it’s not your turn.
Choosing Dart Order: Players can flip a coin or use another agreed-upon method to determine who throws first.
Time Between Throws: Players should aim to throw their darts within a reasonable time frame, avoiding delays or prolonged pauses.
Darts Tips and Tactics
Consistency in Practice: Regular practice is key. Focus on your throwing stance, grip, and release. Aim for consistency in your throws to improve accuracy.
Stance and Balance: Maintain a stable and comfortable stance with your dominant foot slightly forward. Balance your weight evenly and avoid leaning too far forward or backward.
Grip and Release: Experiment with different grips to find what feels natural. Ensure a relaxed grip, and release the dart smoothly, focusing on a consistent follow-through.
Aim and Focus: Concentrate on aiming for specific segments of the board during practice sessions. Visualize your target and maintain focus throughout your throw.
Scoring Strategies: Work on finishing strategies, especially for common outshots (combinations to reach zero). Practice frequently encountered numbers to improve confidence during gameplay.
Watch and Learn: Watch professional players or tutorials to observe techniques, strategies, and throwing styles. Learn from their approaches and adapt what works for you.
Stay Relaxed and Patient: Tension affects accuracy. Stay relaxed, both physically and mentally. Be patient with your progress; improvement takes time and consistent effort.
Join a League or Play with Others: Playing with friends or joining a local darts league exposes you to different playing styles and levels of competition, accelerating your learning curve.
Have Fun: Enjoy the game! A positive attitude and a relaxed mindset contribute to better performance. Treat each game as an opportunity to learn and grow
Summary
Darts is more than a game; it’s an art form that combines skill, strategy, and finesse. Understanding its rules, practicing diligently, and honing your tactics can transform this pastime into a riveting and rewarding experience. So, step up to the oche, aim true, and let the darts fly!
Darts truly is a pub classic! Check out another classic like Table Tennis or, have a look at your favourite sport in our A-Z.
