A dart board is a circular target used in the game of darts, divided into numbered scoring segments, doubles, triples and a central bullseye. Modern regulation boards for steel-tip darts are typically made from compressed sisal fibres that self-heal when darts are removed, giving durability for frequent play. Standard boards have a regulated diameter of about 17.75–18 inches and weigh roughly 10–12 pounds, making them sturdy enough to mount securely on a wall or stand.
There are also soft-tip and electronic dart boards that use plastic segments and soft-tip darts, popular in bars and family spaces because they reduce wall damage and are often linked to automatic scoring systems. Beyond the standard “clock” board, some regions use speciality designs such as the Manchester or London Fives boards, which alter segment count and size to create different challenges.
Dart board types
The main dartboard types differ by material and intended use.
- Bristle (sisal) dart boards:
- Soft-tip and electronic dart boards:
- Magnetic and kids’ dart boards:
Official size and dimensions
A standard regulation dart board used in most leagues has a diameter of about 17.75–18 inches (roughly 45.1–45.7 cm) and a depth of around 1.5 inches. The bullseye is at the exact centre, and the numbered segments are evenly spaced around the board, with the 20 segment at the top when mounted correctly.
The playing area includes single, double, and triple rings, plus inner and outer bull, each with defined widths to ensure consistent scoring worldwide. While speciality boards may be smaller or have different segment layouts, the 18‑inch bristle board remains the global standard for serious play.
Height, distance and space needed
A correct setup is crucial for fair and consistent play. The bullseye must be exactly 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in) from the floor to the centre of the board. For steel-tip boards, the horizontal distance from the wall to the throwing line (oche) is 2.37 m (7 ft 9.25 in), while many soft-tip systems use 2.44 m (8 ft).
Your room also needs enough clearance to throw safely. Guides recommend at least about 5 feet of clear space in front of the board and roughly 3 feet of space to each side, giving around 11 feet wide by 5 feet deep for comfortable play. Ensure the wall behind the board is free from fragile items and consider durable flooring or a mat to handle dropped steel-tip darts.
Basic dartboard rules and scoring
Standard “501” and “301” games use the same board layout and scoring zones. Each throw can score from 1 to 60 points, with outer singles, a double ring, a triple ring, and the two bullseye sections (outer and inner bullseye). Players typically start from a fixed score (such as 501) and subtract their scores each turn, aiming to reach exactly zero, often requiring a finishing double in many rule sets.
The board is numbered to punish inaccurate throws: high-value areas like 20 are flanked by low numbers, such as 1 and 5. Tournament rules also define toe-line positioning, order of play, and tie-break formats, but all rely on the same standard board height and throwing distance.
How to install a dartboard
Installing the board correctly keeps games consistent and everyone safe. First, mark the centre point on the wall so the bullseye will sit 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in) above the floor. Mount the supplied bracket or fixing kit at that height, using appropriate wall anchors for drywall or masonry so the board cannot wobble or pull free.
Next, measure the throwing distance from the board face to the oche: 2.37 m for steel tip or 2.44 m for many soft-tip setups, then mark or tape the line on the floor. Many home setups add a backboard or surround ring to catch stray darts and protect the wall, plus a throw line marker or raised oche for a clear, repeatable stance point.
Choosing the right dartboard
Selecting the right board depends on space, players, and budget.
- For serious practice or league play:
- For families, kids, or casual bars:
Also consider overall build quality, brand reputation, and whether the board includes mounting hardware, surround, and starter darts to simplify your setup.
Caring for your dart board
Good maintenance extends the life of your board and keeps it scoring fair. For sisal bristle boards, rotate the board regularly by turning the number ring so high-traffic areas like 20 share wear with other segments. Many guides recommend rotation as often as weekly if you play daily, which significantly slows down localised damage.
Keep the board dry and away from direct moisture or extreme humidity, as water can swell or weaken sisal fibres and shorten the board’s life. Cleaning should be light: use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and residue, and avoid water or cleaning agents that can compromise the self-healing surface.
Dart cares to protect the board
Well-maintained darts are just as important for board longevity as the board itself. Steel tips should be sharp enough to penetrate cleanly but not needle-sharp or hooked, as over-sharpened or bent tips can tear fibres and cause bigger holes. Regularly inspect tips, shafts, and flights, replacing worn parts to keep flights stable and reduce bounce-outs that scar the board.
Clean metal barrels with a soft cloth and mild cleaners where appropriate, avoiding harsh abrasives or prolonged moisture that may corrode metal parts. Using appropriately weighted its that comply with governing body limits helps protect both the board and electronic systems while maintaining balanced flight.
Safety and setup tips
A good dart setup is not just accurate but safe. Mount the board on a stable surface, verify there is no wobble, and regularly check the bracket, screws, and anchors for looseness. Add a dartboard surround or backboard to catch misses, and consider a mat in front of the oche to protect floors and dropped darts.
Ensure the playing area stays clear of foot traffic, pets, and fragile objects, especially behind and around the board, where it may stray. With the correct height, distance, and safety measures, a dartboard can become a long-lasting centrepiece for competitive games, relaxed social nights, or focused practice at home or in commercial venues.