16 basic dart terms you should know
The origins of darts can be traced back to the 14th century, with its roots believed to be in England. It was originally played with short arrows aimed at a wine barrel, but has since evolved to use wooden boards and short javelins. Today, we know this game as modern darts.
Darts is a game for all ages, requiring precision, skill, and strategy. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, understanding the terminology used in darts is essential for effective communication and gameplay. In this blog post, we'll discuss 16 common darts terms that every player should know.
1. Bullseye: The center circle of the dartboard. In darts, the bullseye/inner bull/double bull is worth 50 points. The outer bullseye is worth 25 points.
2. Double: The narrow outer ring on the dartboard that doubles the value of the number it lands on.
3. Triple: The narrow inner ring on the dartboard that triples the value of the number it lands on.
4. Checkout: When a player successfully reaches the required score to finish the game.
5. Throw Line: The line behind which the player stands when throwing a dart.
6. Score: The total number of points a player has accumulated in each round of darts.
7. Dart Flight: Small feathers or plastic ends on a dart that help stabilize the arrow in flight.
8. Grip: The way a player holds the dart when throwing.
9. Bounced Out: The dart bounces off the dartboard after impact, and no points are awarded.
10. Ton: Scoring 100 points with three darts in one round.
11. Single: The large section of a number on the dartboard that is worth the number it lands on.
12. 180: The highest possible score in a round, hitting three treble 20s.
13. Breaking Points: When a player exceeds the predetermined score and is eliminated, resulting in no points scored in that round.
14.Ton 80: Scoring 180 points in a round, also known as maximum score or perfect score.
15. Tungsten: The material from which the barrel of a dart is made, known for its high density and durability.
16. Dartitis: A psychological condition that impairs a player's ability to release the dart smoothly.
Now that you are familiar with these darts terms, let's take a closer look at how they are used in a game. Darts is played by throwing three darts per round at a circular board with scoring areas. Each area has a different point value, with the outer ring counting as double and the inner ring as triple.
Players take turns throwing their darts, aiming to score as many points as possible in each round. The ultimate goal is to reach a set score, usually 501 or 301, and to check out with a double or bullseye.
Understanding the terms "double" and "triple" is crucial for calculating scores and strategizing the game. For example, if a player has 40 points left, they can aim for a double 20 to check out. If they accidentally hit a single 20, they will have 20 points remaining and must aim for a double 10 on the next throw.
Another important term is "Bust". This occurs when a player's score goes over the required score to check out. For example, if a player has 32 points left but hits a triple 20, they are "busted" because their score exceeds the designated 0 points.
Achieving a 180 is the ultimate goal for many players in darts. This is the highest possible score that can be achieved with three darts and requires some luck.
This guide provides you with a foundation to understand the game of darts and begin training. Remember, the key to progress is continuous practice and a positive attitude. Grab your darts and start throwing!