New to Darts? Get These 5 Darts Tips For Beginners!

Want to start your exciting journey into the world of darts? Whether you’re looking to play casually with friends or become a serious contender, mastering the fundamentals is crucial to your success. In this blog, we’ll guide you through five essential tips that will help you get familiar with darts in just a few weeks. So, let’s step up to the oche and get started!

Tip #1: Learn the rules, starting with ‘01 games

Before you start throwing darts, take some time to grasp the basic rules of darts. Classic ’01 games (most popular darts games), like 301 or 501, are ideal for beginners.

In these games, each player begins with a specific score (usually 301 or 501) and must reach exactly zero to win. You’ll need to reduce your score with each throw, and the catch is that you must finish on a double or the bullseye. Understanding the scoring system and the concept of finishing on a double is fundamental to playing darts effectively.

Familiarize yourself with the scoring areas on the dartboard, as well as the values assigned to each segment. Knowing the board layout will help you strategize and aim for specific targets during a game. Online resources and darting communities often have guides and tutorials for beginners, making it easier to comprehend the rules and scoring.

Tip #2: Get the proper techniques

To become a skilled darts player, mastering the proper throwing technique is crucial. Start by finding a grip that feels comfortable and steady for you. There are various gripping styles, such as the “pencil grip” or “hammer grip.” Experiment with them to see which one suits you best.

Next, work on your stance and posture. Stand with your dominant foot forward, keeping your body stable and balanced. Hold the dart at eye level and ensure your arm is straight during the throw. Avoid “snatching” or “flinging” the dart; instead, focus on a smooth, controlled release. Repetition is key, so practice your throwing techniques and motion consistently to develop muscle memory.

Remember, consistency is more important than power. A smooth, repeatable throw will yield better results than a forceful yet erratic one. As you progress, record your progress and watch your technique improve over time.

Tip #3: Buy a quality dartboard and darts

Investing in a high-quality dartboard and suitable darts is a wise decision. Bristle dartboards are the standard choice for most players as they last longer and self-heal, reducing bounce-outs. Look for a dartboard with a staple-free design to avoid damaging the dart tips.

>> Here are our top-rated bristle dartboards on the market.

Regarding darts, consider factors such as weight, grip, and materials. Darts from 21g to 26g tend to be more suitable for beginners, as they are easier to control. However, some players prefer heavier darts for increased stability. Test different darts to find what feels right for you. Opt for steel-tip darts, as they are commonly used in tournament play and provide better durability compared to soft-tipped ones.

>> Check out these best steel-tip darts for beginners.

Flights and shafts are other important components of the dart. Flights come in various shapes and sizes, affecting the dart’s trajectory, while shafts determine the overall stability of the dart during flight. Keep some spare flights and shafts on hand, as they are prone to wear and tear.

Tip #4: Practice consistently

As with any skill, practice is essential to improving your darts game. Regular practice allows you to hone your throwing technique, enhance accuracy, and develop a solid rhythm. Create a practice routine that fits your schedule and stick to it. Even short, frequent practice sessions are beneficial.

Solo games can be an excellent way to practice without needing a partner. One popular solo game is ‘Around the Clock.’ Start at the number 1 and work your way around the dartboard, aiming for each number in a sequence. Once you hit the target three times, move on to the next number. This game helps you become familiar with the entire dartboard and improves your accuracy.

While solo practice is beneficial, playing with others introduces an element of competition and fun. Joining local darts leagues or participating in casual games with friends allows you to gauge your progress and learn from more experienced players.

Tip #5: Get familiar with darts terms and slang

As with any sport or hobby, darts has its own unique terminology and slang. Familiarizing yourself with these terms will help you communicate with other players and understand the game better.

Here are some common darts terms and their meanings:

• Bed: Refers to the main scoring area of a number on the dartboard. For instance, the “20 bed” is the larger section of the number 20 segment.
• Bust: When a player’s score exceeds the required amount, they “bust” and return to their previous score.
• Checkout: The final combination of darts that brings a player’s score to zero, ending the game.
• Ton 80: The highest possible score in a turn, achieved by hitting three triple 20s (three darts in the triple 20 segment, each worth 60 points).
• Oche: The throwing line, a line on the floor behind which players must stand when throwing.
• Flight: The fin-like piece at the end of the dart, which stabilizes the dart during flight.
• Shaft: The part of the dart that connects the flight to the barrel.
• Double In/Double Out: A format where players need to start and finish on a double (e.g., double 20) to begin and end the game.

There are many more terms to discover, and as you continue playing darts, you’ll naturally pick up additional jargon.

By following these five darts tips for beginners, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a competent darts player. Understanding the rules and starting with simple games will give you a solid foundation. Mastering proper techniques, investing in quality equipment, and practicing consistently will help you progress quickly. Lastly, familiarizing yourself with darts lingo will enable you to interact with fellow players and fully immerse yourself in the world of darts. So, grab your darts, aim high, and enjoy the journey ahead!