Darts is a highly popular game that is played in pubs, bars, and homes across the world. It is simple to learn but to be truly skilled at takes accuracy, strategy, and a calm hand. The most widely played variation of the game is 501, which is well established, particularly in professional and tournament games.
In this guide, we’ll break down the rules of 501 darts, explain the scoring system, and provide essential tips for beginners looking to improve their game.
The Goal of 501 Darts
The main goal in 501 darts is simple: start with 501 points and reduce that score to zero. Players take turns throwing three darts each, and after every turn, their score is reduced by the total of the points they hit on the dartboard. The tricky part is that the game requires you to finish on a double, which means the last dart you throw must land on one of the outer rings of the dartboard. This adds an extra challenge and requires strategy as you near the end of the game.
How to Play 501 Darts-Rules
At the beginning of the game, each player starts with 501 points. The goal is to reduce your score to zero. Each time you throw a dart, you subtract the points based on where the dart lands on the dartboard. For example:
- A single 20 means you subtract 20 points.
- A double 20 means you subtract 40 points (double the score of the section).
- A triple 20 means you subtract 60 points (triple the score of the section).
Players take turns throwing three darts. After each turn, subtract the points scored from the player’s total. So, if you start with 501 points and score 20, 40, and 30 points with your three darts, your score will be reduced to 411 points (501 – 20 – 40 – 30 = 411).
Here’s a critical rule: You must finish the game by hitting a double. This means that your last dart needs to land on a double section of the dartboard to reduce your score to exactly zero. For example:
- If you have 40 points left, you need to hit a double 20.
- If you have 32 points left, you need to hit a double 16.
If you don’t finish the game with a double, you haven’t won the game yet.
A player “busts” if their score goes below zero. For example, if you have 12 points left and you hit a double 8 (which gives you 16 points), your turn is a bust. Your score remains the same as it was before that round, and you don’t make any progress toward zero. The game continues, and the player will try again in the next round.
The “oche” is the line behind which the players must stand while throwing their darts. The oche is usually about 7 feet 9.25 inches (2.37 meters) from the dartboard. Make sure to stand behind this line to ensure fair play.
501 Darts Scorer
The 501 darts scorer is a gadget that has been devised for the game of darts. It is a tracking tool during a 501 match for the players. Players start off with 501, and every time they hit points, they need to try and reduce that score to nil. It will keep the player’s points each time they throw.
Automatically, the score is subtracted from 501 to keep tally of the game. Each player throws three darts per turn, with the scorer marking the running score after each throw.
The game is usually finished when a player reaches zero with a double, which often is the final dart. A 501 darts scorer saves players from having to bother with keeping a manual score during the game.
501 Darts Online
Online 501 darts boards let players play remotely, offering a digital version of this classic game. Many of these places auto-track scores for complete accuracy, with some having added features like leaderboards that track one’s progress and compare their score with others. A few even provide virtual coaching or tutorials for those looking to improve.
Playing 501 darts online has the same feel as playing in person, but the convenience of competing with others around the world is a bonus. For fun or serious competition, online dart boards make it easier to find opponents and enjoy the game.
Strategy Tips for Beginners
While darts may seem like a game of chance, there are some strategies that can help beginners improve their chances of winning.
Go for Triple 20: Hit the triple 20 as much as possible when starting the game. This is the most valuable area on the dartboard, as you get 60 points each time you hit it. You will reach zero quick if you keep consistently hitting the triple 20. But hey, hitting triple 20 is a bit harder to hit compared to a single 20, so it pays to practice your accuracy.
Plan the Double Finish: When you’re reaching the end of the game, that’s the time you plan on how to hit a double that would bring you to zero. For example, if you have 40 left, you target double 20. If this misses, then it tries again on his next turn. Always remember the rule of the double finish and plan your throws so you can finish the game properly.
Don’t Rush: Darts is a game of skill and precision. Sometimes you might rush your throws because you get overexcited or feel pressured. Instead, take your time, focus on your target, and throw each dart with control. In time, you will be able to perform with much more ease and steadiness.
Practice: As with any activity that requires skills, the more you practice, the better you will be. Devote some time to practicing your throws to be more accurate. First, focus on hitting the single sections of the dartboard, then gradually work your way up to the harder areas-the doubles and triples. The better you are at hitting, the easier it will be for you to cut down your score and close out the game.
Bullseye Cleverly: While the bullseye is good to take an early lead in the game, when the number is neared to zero, you must avoid the bullseye unless in case of strategy facilitation, if it would probably finish the game by a double or triple, go for that instead of concentrating on the bullseye.
Conclusion
501 darts is a simple yet demanding game that can be enjoyed by anyone. You will get better and enjoy the ride in the process by learning the uncomplicated rules and honing your throws. Begin with the basics: familiarize yourself with your board, hone your aim, and strategize as you work your way up to your target. You will be ending your games with confidence with practice and persistence.
As a beginner, the most important thing is to have fun playing the game. Whether you’re with friends or in a competition, darts is about being precise, patient, and skilled. Keep calm, think carefully, and over time, you’ll get better. Have fun throwing!