Everything You Need to Know to Get Started
Looking for a fun new hobby? Try dartboard playing! It's a classic game that's been enjoyed for centuries and for good reason. In this blog, we'll explore why dartboard playing is so great, whether you're a pro or just starting out. So grab your darts and let's go!
One of the best things about dartboard playing is that it's accessible to everyone. You don't need to be an athlete or have any special skills to enjoy the game. All you need is a dartboard and a set of darts and you're ready to go. Plus, there are many variations of the game, so you can always find one that suits your preferences. Whether you prefer a more relaxed game or a fast-paced competition, there's a dartboard game for you. So why not give it a try? You might just discover a new passion!
Understanding the Different Types of Dartboards
In this blog, we will be discussing the timeless classic, the bristle dartboard and we will explore the exciting modern alternative, the electronic dartboard in the next blog.
Bristle Dartboards
Bristle dartboards are made from compressed sisal fibers and are the most common type of dartboard. They are durable and self-healing, meaning the holes left by the darts close up over time. They offer a consistent playing surface, making them the preferred choice of serious dart players.
Ready, Aim, Hang
Find a Suitable Location
Choose a location where there is enough space to play darts safely. Ideally, you should have at least 7 feet (2.13 meters) of clear space in front of the dartboard.
Mount the Dartboard
Use a suitable mounting bracket to attach the dartboard to the wall. The bullseye should be exactly 5 feet 8 inches above the floor.
Mark Throwing Line
Using a tape measure, measure 7 feet 9 1/4 inches (2.37 meters) from the face of the dartboard and mark this spot on the floor. This is where you should stand when throwing darts.
① Winmau Professional Dart Set With Diamond Plus Dartboard
② Winmau Heavy-Duty Xtreme Dart Mat
Set Up Lighting
Make sure the area is well-lit, so you can see the board clearly. You can use overhead lighting or additional lamps to illuminate the area.
Choosing the Right Weight for Your Darts
When it comes to playing darts, the weight of your darts can have a big impact on your game.
Tungsten darts are a popular choice for competitive players, as they offer a good balance between weight and strength. The weight of these darts typically ranges from 21-26 grams.
If the buyer is more social and plays darts for fun, they may prefer lighter darts that are easier to throw over extended periods of play. Darts in the range of 16-20 grams are a good choice for social players.
If you are new to playing darts, you may want to start with a mid-range weight dart of around 20 grams. This weight is typically good for beginners because it is not too heavy or too light and offers a good balance between control and ease of use.
However, it's important to note that the weight of darts can vary widely and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. It's recommended that you try out a few different weights to find the one that feels most comfortable and natural to you. The best weight for darts throw will depend on the individual player's comfort level, skill level and personal preference.
The crack line or wire on a dartboard is not a crack but a necessary feature that separates the different scoring sections. It's made of thin, rounded metal to reduce bounce-outs and help darts stick to the board.
The wire is designed to be as thin as possible but it still creates a small obstacle for the dart to pass through. Hitting the wire can sometimes deflect the dart away from its intended target, making it more challenging for the player to score points.
It is normal for a dartboard to develop many holes after playing. This is because the darts pierce the surface of the board each time they are thrown and over time, these holes can accumulate and become more visible. They do require some maintenance but with regular care, a well-maintained bristle dartboard can last for many years.
Tips for Regular Care and Maintenance of a Bristle Dartboard
Rotate the Board
To ensure even wear and tear, rotate the dartboard regularly. This will prevent any one section of the board from becoming overused.
Clean the Board
Use a dry cloth or brush to remove any dust or debris from the surface of the board. Avoid using water or cleaning products as this can damage the board.
Use a Dartboard Surround
A surround is a protective ring that goes around the edge of the board to protect the walls from stray darts. This can also help to prevent the board from getting damaged.
Dartboard Backboards
Dartboard backboards are designed to protect walls from damage caused by stray darts. They are typically made from foam or cork and can be hung behind the dartboard to catch any missed darts.
Remove Any Broken or Loose Fibers
Use a sharp knife or scissors to remove any broken or loose fibers from the surface of the board. This will help to keep the board looking tidy and prevent bounce-outs.
Store the Darts Properly
When not in use, store the darts in a secure, dry place. Avoid leaving them lying around or throwing them onto the board when not playing.
Signs It's Time to Replace Your Dartboard or Darts
The decision to replace a dartboard should be based on the condition of the board and the player's experience during gameplay. If darts are bouncing out or not sticking properly or if the scoring sections are difficult to see, it may be time to replace the board.
Holes
If the dartboard has significant damage, such as large holes, cracks or dents, it can affect the surface of the board and cause darts to bounce out or not stick properly.
Faded or Worn Out Numbers
Dartboards can last for several years but as they age, they can become worn and faded, which can affect the visibility of the scoring sections and make it more difficult to see where darts have landed. Additionally, the board may become uneven due to excessive wear in certain areas, causing darts to deflect or not stick properly.
Bent or Broken Tips
Broken or bent tips of the darts can cause damage to the dartboard or become dangerous to play with. Replace any darts with bent or broken tips.
Wear and Tear
If the flights on the darts are loose or fall off easily, they can affect the trajectory of the dart and make it difficult to play. The shafts of the darts can also become worn down and the barrels can become scratched or dented. If the darts show signs of wear and tear, it may be time to replace the flights or the entire dart.
PLAY • FUN • LEISURE
