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Darts

as a hobby

Darts is a classic game with a rich history, offering a unique blend of physical and mental exercise. Itโ€™s a cost-effective hobby that can be enjoyed by all ages, making it a great choice for family fun. The game can improve your concentration, confidence, and hand-eye coordination. To get started, all you need is a dartboard, a set of darts, and a little bit of space. Happy darting!

Helpful content to start darts as a hobby

We aim to provide accurate information, but errors might be found. Always exercise judgment and discretion.

๐Ÿ“ผ Videos

Short visual inspiration.

YouTube | How to Play Darts
How to Play Darts
YouTube | How to throw like a pro: darts tips
How to throw like a pro: darts tips

๐ŸŽ™๏ธ Podcasts

Play an episode while exploring the page.

Spotify | The Darts Show Podcast
Spotify Embed: The Darts Show Podcast
Spotify | Love The Darts
Spotify Embed: Love The Darts
Spotify | The Online Darts Podcast
Spotify Embed: The Online Darts Podcast
Spotify | #332: Beau Greaves, Andy Baetens, Danny Lauby, WDF World Championships Preview
Spotify Embed: #332: Beau Greaves, Andy Baetens, Danny Lauby, WDF World Championships Preview

Darts is one of the oldest established games in the world, born in English pubs.

๐Ÿ“œ Terms

Basic lingo for orientation.

  • Average: Average scored by three darts thrown or over a leg, set, and game of darts.
  • Barrel: The part of a dart that players hold/grip. These usually come as tungsten but can also be brass, nickel, or steel.
  • Bull or Bullseye: The bull is the center part of the dartboard. It comprises two sections, the outer bull (colored green) and the inner bull (colored red). The outer bull is worth 25 points while the inner bull is worth 50.
  • Bust: A bust in darts is when a playerโ€™s score is reduced to zero without being a checkout.
  • Bounce-Out: A bounce-out occurs when a dart hits a wire or another dart and bounces out of the board. Bounce-outs do not count towards your score.
  • Check-Out: Check-out is when you hit the exact amount of points that you need to win the game.
  • Cover Shot: A cover shot in darts is where your intended target is blocked by a dart so you switch to a different number.
  • Double: The outer ring of the dartboard is worth double points for the corresponding number. A double is used to check-out in a game of X01.
  • Leg: In darts, a leg means a single game in a set or match.
  • Maximum: A maximum in darts is a score of 180.
  • Oche: Pronounced โ€˜ockeyโ€™, the oche is the throw line in darts. In a professional game, the oche is also a platform leading up to the board.
  • Set: A set in darts is used to track legs. A typical game of X01 darts will be made up of legs, sets, and game.
  • Treble (or Triple): The inner ring on a dartboard is worth three times the score of the corresponding single.

โ— How to start darts as a hobby

First moves for getting acquainted and breaking the ice.

  • Purchase a quality, yet affordable set of a dartboard and darts.
  • If youโ€™re concerned about potential damage to your wall, consider buying a wall protector.
  • Start by making your first few throws.
  • Then consider following a free online course to establish your foundational skills and progress from there.
  • Consider using an app for a structured training plan and for keeping track of your scores and progress.

๐Ÿ“š Books

Get read-y.

Playing darts can help improve your concentration, confidence, and hand/eye coordination.

๐Ÿชœ How-tos

Step-by-step tutorials.

๐Ÿ“„ Articles

Further reading.

๐ŸŒ Websites

Go-tos for information.

The game of darts has had regulatory bodies for almost 100 years.

๐Ÿฟ Movies

Nothing like a film for inspiration.

YouTube | House of Flying Arrows Trailer
House of Flying Arrows Trailer

โ“ FAQS

Get a clue.

What are the benefits of playing darts?

Playing darts can improve your hand-eye coordination, concentration, mental arithmetic, and social skills. It is also a fun and relaxing way to spend your leisure time.

What equipment do I need to play darts?

You will need a dartboard and darts, and a safe place to hang the board and throw the darts. You may also want to get a wall protector, a dart mat, a scoreboard, and a case for your darts.

How can I protect my wall from darts?

While you can improvise DIY solutions, there are dedicated wall protectors that can save you time and frustration.

How do I choose the right darts for me?

There are many factors to consider when choosing darts, such as the weight, shape, size, material, and grip of the barrel, the length and shape of the shaft, and the shape and size of the flight. The best way to find out what suits you is to try different combinations and see what feels comfortable and accurate for you.

How do I improve my dart skills?

The key to improving your dart skills is to practice regularly and consistently. You can practice by yourself or with a partner, and try different games and drills to challenge yourself. You can follow free online courses. Consider using apps for a training plan, and keeping track of your scores and progress.

๐Ÿ“ฑ Apps

Smart assistance.

Darts is a game that benefits your health, involving a unique blend of physical and mental skills.

๐Ÿ“ฆ Products

Smart assistance.

YouTube | Viper Shot King Steel Tip Dartboard Promo
Viper Shot King Steel Tip Dartboard Promo
YouTube | Viper Defender I, II, & III Dartboard Surrounds
Viper Defender I, II, & III Dartboard Surrounds

๐ŸŽ“ Courses

Get smart.

YouTube Playlist | Live Darts Masterclass
Live Darts Masterclass
YouTube Playlist | DARTS TIPS & TRICKS
DARTS TIPS & TRICKS

๐Ÿ“ Near You

Get together.

Brian Gamlin, an English carpenter, invented the dartboard numbering that is still in use today.

๐Ÿ“ฌ Newsletters

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๐Ÿ’ก Tips

Additional advice for beginners.