Darts Scoring - The Rules of Darts Explained

Introduction

• The rules are set by the Darts Regulation Authority (DRA) to ensure fair play.
• The focus is on explaining the rules of the 501 game, the most commonly played darts game.

Positioning of the Board and Player

• Player's Position:

  • Players stand behind the "oche," a line 7 feet 9 1/4 inches from the dartboard.
  • Feet crossing the oche results in a foul and the turn does not count.

• Dartboard Height:

  • The dartboard's bullseye is positioned 5 feet 8 inches from the floor.

Understanding the Game of 501

• Players start with a score of 501 and aim to reduce it to zero.
• Game is won by reaching zero, completing a "leg."

Gameplay

• Darts Used:

  • Each player uses three darts per turn.
  • Must aim to reach zero to complete a leg.

• Scoring System:

  • Different segments of the dartboard carry different scores.
  • Players subtract their score from 501 based on the total score of their three darts.
  • Example: Scoring two 20s and an 8 = 48; subtract from 501 to get 453.

Finishing the Game

• Players must hit a double to win by reducing their score from 501 to zero.
• Minimum of 9 darts is required to complete a game and declare a champion.

Dartboard Segments and Scoring

• Double Ring:

  • Outer circle; doubles the number above the dart.
  • Example: Hitting double ring under 20 scores 40.

• Single Ring:

  • Found below the double ring; scores the number hit.

• Triple Ring:

  • Inner circle; triples the number above it.
  • Example: Hitting triple under 20 scores 60.

• Outer Bull:

  • Surrounds the bullseye; always scores 25.

• Bullseye:

  • Center of the board; scores 50.

Maximum Score

• Maximum score per turn is 180, achieved by hitting the triple 20 with all three darts.

Conclusion

• Understanding darts scoring is key to playing and enjoying the game.
• Darts Corner offers a wide range of dartboards and accessories.
• For beginners, there is a collection to help get started.

Additional Resources

• Beginner's Collection
• Dartboards