Frequently Asked Questions
What height should a dartboard be?
The centre of the bullseye should be 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 metres) from the floor. This is the internationally recognised standard for all steel-tip and soft-tip play.
How far do you stand from a dartboard?
For steel-tip darts, the oche (throwing line) should be 7 feet 9.25 inches (2.37 metres) from the face of the board. For soft-tip, some leagues use 8 feet (2.44 metres).
What weight darts should I use?
Most beginners do well with 22-24g darts. Within that range, lighter darts (22g) suit a direct, powerful throw, while heavier darts (24g) suit a smoother, more arcing throw. Try both if possible.
What's the highest score in darts?
The highest three-dart score is 180 — three treble 20s. The highest single-dart score is 60 (treble 20). In a game of 501, the maximum checkout (finishing score from one visit) is 170 (T20, T20, Bull).
What are dartboards made of?
Quality dartboards are made from sisal — compressed fibres from the agave plant. Sisal self-heals when darts are removed. Electronic boards use moulded plastic. Cheap boards may use cork or paper, but these wear out very quickly.
Why is the numbering so random?
It's not random — it's brilliantly designed. Brian Gamlin (1896) arranged the numbers so that high numbers are flanked by low numbers. Miss the 20? You'll likely hit 1 or 5. This punishes inaccuracy and rewards skill.
What does "oche" mean?
The oche (pronounced "OCK-ee") is the throwing line. The word's origin is debated — it may derive from the Old English "hocken" (to throw), or from the "Hockey" beer brand whose crates were used to mark the throwing distance in pubs.
Do I need to double-in to start?
In most modern rules (and all professional play), no — you start scoring immediately. Some pub and North American leagues require a "double in" (you must hit a double before your score starts counting). Check local rules.
What happens if I go below zero in 501?
If a dart takes your score below zero, or to exactly 1, or to zero without the last dart being a double — the entire three-dart turn is "bust." Your score resets to what it was before that turn began.
Can I use any darts on any board?
Steel-tip darts should only be used on bristle (sisal) boards. They'll destroy electronic and magnetic boards. Soft-tip darts are designed for electronic boards but can be used on bristle boards (though they don't stick as well). Magnetic darts only work on magnetic boards.
How often should I replace my dartboard?
With regular rotation (turning the number ring every week or two), a quality bristle board lasts 2-5 years of regular play. The main wear area is around treble 20 — if this segment is noticeably chewed up and accepting darts less reliably, it's time. Electronic boards vary widely — budget boards may need replacing annually, while quality ones last several years.
What's a Robin Hood in darts?
When a thrown dart sticks into the shaft or flight of a dart already in the board, rather than the board itself. Named after the legendary arrow-splitting feat. It looks impressive but scores zero and damages your equipment. Flight protectors and spinning shafts reduce them.
Is darts a sport?
Darts was recognised as a sport by Sport England in 2005 and by UK Sport. It requires accuracy, concentration, hand-eye coordination, and mental mathematics. Whether it should be in the Olympics is a different (and spirited) debate entirely.
How do I stop my darts bouncing out?
Bounce-outs have several causes:
- Board quality — Upgrade to a board with blade wires (not round wires) and better sisal
- Point condition — Sharpen slightly (but not to a needle point)
- Angle of entry — Darts that hit the wire at certain angles deflect. Consistent throwing reduces this
- Worn segments — If one area is heavily worn, rotate the board
Can I play darts in a flat/apartment?
Yes, with appropriate equipment. Consider electronic (soft-tip) boards or magnetic boards to reduce noise and wall damage. Adding a surround and backing board helps. Be mindful of neighbours — the rhythmic thudding of darts can travel through walls and floors.
How do I clean a dartboard?
Don't use water or cleaning products on a sisal board — moisture is the enemy. Remove dust with a soft, dry cloth or a very gentle vacuum on the lowest setting. If the board gets wet, let it dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. Electronic boards can be wiped with a dry cloth.
What's the best game for beginners?
Round the Clock (hitting 1-20 in order) is the best starting game — it teaches you to aim at every part of the board. Once comfortable, move to 501 with relaxed rules (no double-in required). Cricket is also excellent for beginners as it encourages strategic thinking.
Have a darts question we haven't covered? We're always adding to this page based on reader queries.