The darts finish 170 is the highest possible checkout in a single visit to the oche: treble 20, treble 20, bullseye. This article will explore the strategy, odds, and glory of achieving this iconic feat, along with diving into other high finishes and checkout techniques.
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The Mystique of the Darts Finish 170
The darts finish 170, also known as the “Big Fish,” is arguably the most coveted checkout in the game of darts. It represents the pinnacle of skill and precision, requiring a perfect combination of aim, focus, and nerve. Many dart players practice endlessly, hoping to one day nail this incredible checkout in a match. While there are other high finishes, the 170 holds a special place in darting lore due to its combination of required scores and relative scarcity.
Attempting the darts finish 170 demonstrates confidence. It shows that the player is not only capable of hitting the required targets but also willing to take the risk and potentially end the leg in spectacular fashion. The roar of the crowd, the pressure of the moment, and the satisfaction of landing those three perfect darts all contribute to the legend of the 170 finish. Let’s look at the mathematical probability of achieving this feat and the mental aspect of attempting the perfect checkout.
Breaking Down the 170 Checkout: Treble 20, Treble 20, Bullseye
The 170 darts finish is straightforward in its execution, but incredibly difficult to achieve consistently. It requires hitting:
- Treble 20 (60 points): The narrowest scoring section on the board, located at the top of the 20 wedge.
- Treble 20 (60 points): Another perfect strike on the treble 20.
- Bullseye (50 points): The inner bullseye, the smallest target on the board and the highest-scoring single area.
The order is crucial. You must hit the two treble 20s first, and then the bullseye to achieve the desired 170.
The Odds of Hitting a 170 Finish
Calculating the exact odds of hitting a 170 finish is complex, as it depends on a player’s skill level and consistency. However, we can consider a simplified theoretical calculation. Assuming a player aims perfectly, the probability of hitting a treble 20 is relatively low given the size of the segment. Then, they must repeat this feat, followed by landing the bullseye, which is also challenging. Factors like fatigue, pressure, and distractions further reduce the odds. While a professional dart player may convert these odds to something reasonable with practice, it’s important to realize that statistically, it’s not a given.
Alternative High Darts Finishes
While the darts finish 170 is the highest, other high finishes are also impressive and frequently seen in professional play. Understanding these finishes and practicing them is key to becoming a well-rounded darts player.
- 167 (T20, T19, Bull): Another challenging finish requiring a precise treble 20 and treble 19 followed by the bullseye.
- 164 (T20, T18, Bull): Another high finish, similar to the 167.
- 161 (T20, T17, Bull): Requires a treble 20, treble 17 and a bullseye.
- 160 (T20, T20, D20): Also known as the ‘tops-tops’ finish. This finish requires two treble 20s and a double 20.
These finishes require precise calculations and a strong understanding of the dartboard. Practicing these alternative high finishes can improve your overall checkout ability. Perhaps you should start using an Automatic dart scoring app, so you can improve and practice more.
Checkout Strategy and Planning
Effective checkout strategy involves planning your route to a finish based on your current score and your ability to hit certain targets. Instead of always aiming for the highest possible finish, it’s often more strategic to leave yourself with a comfortable double. The best approach depends on several factors, including your confidence in hitting specific numbers, the pressure of the match, and your opponent’s scoring pace. When you have darts point live, this can impact the strategy to take. For example, if your opponent is closing in, you might be forced to go for a riskier checkout to end the leg quickly.
Understanding the Double Out Rule
In most professional darts tournaments, players must finish a leg by hitting a double. This adds another layer of complexity to checkout strategy. It means that you need to be aware of which numbers leave you on a double and be able to confidently hit those doubles under pressure. Common doubles to aim for include double 20 (40), double 16 (32), and double 12 (24). Some players prefer specific doubles based on their throwing style and accuracy.
Leaving a Number for a Future Turn
Sometimes, it’s better to leave a specific number on the board for your next turn. This might involve hitting a single instead of a treble to position yourself for a better checkout opportunity later. For example, if you are on 100, you might hit a single 20 to leave yourself on 80, which can be finished with two double 20s.
The Mental Game of Checkouts
The mental aspect of darts is just as important as the physical skill. Under pressure, even the best players can struggle with their checkouts. Developing a strong mental game involves:
- Visualization: Picturing yourself hitting the required targets before you throw.
- Focus: Blocking out distractions and concentrating on the task at hand.
- Confidence: Believing in your ability to hit the checkout.
- Composure: Staying calm and relaxed, even when under pressure.
Many professional players work with sports psychologists to improve their mental game and develop strategies for handling pressure situations. Consider that, depending on if you suffer from darts leg pain, a different approach might be necessary.
Dealing with Pressure
Pressure can come from several sources, including the importance of the match, the size of the crowd, and the opponent’s skill level. To deal with pressure, it’s important to have a pre-throw routine that helps you focus and relax. This might involve taking a deep breath, visualizing the target, and repeating a positive affirmation. It’s also helpful to practice under simulated pressure conditions to get used to the feeling. If you’re feeling tense and distracted, try to refocus on the fundamentals of your throwing technique and take things one dart at a time.
Practice Drills for Improving Checkouts
Consistent practice is essential for improving your checkout ability. Here are some drills that can help you hone your skills:
- Around the Clock Doubles: Start at double 1 and work your way around the board, hitting each double in order.
- Checkout Practice: Choose a random score between 40 and 170 and practice finishing it in as few darts as possible.
- High Finish Practice: Focus specifically on practicing high finishes like 170, 167, and 164.
- Pressure Practice: Simulate match conditions by setting goals and rewards for yourself, such as “If I hit this checkout, I get to take a break.”
Another useful tactic is the dart double compare. Make sure you consistently revisit the area of the board you find the most challenging. The most important thing is to track progress and continuously adjust the practice routines. If you find yourself struggling with a certain area, try to vary things to improve your weaknesses.
The Glory of Achieving a Darts Finish 170
Successfully executing the darts finish 170 is an unforgettable moment for any darts player. It’s a testament to their skill, dedication, and mental fortitude. The crowd erupts, the commentators go wild, and the player basks in the adulation. These moments often become legendary in darting history, etched in the memories of fans for years to come. While not every player will achieve this feat, the pursuit of perfection and the thrill of the challenge are what make darts such a captivating sport. What happens when do darts start? It allows players to attempt iconic finishes, of course. This is a critical part of every competitive match.
Conclusion
Mastering the darts finish 170 is a challenging but rewarding goal for any dart player. By understanding the mechanics, practicing diligently, developing a strong mental game, and implementing strategic checkout planning, you can significantly improve your chances of achieving this incredible feat. Remember to focus on accuracy, maintain composure under pressure, and enjoy the journey of improving your game. So, grab your darts, step up to the oche, and start practicing your 170 finish today!
Hi, I’m Dieter, and I created Dartcounter (Dartcounterapp.com). My motivation wasn’t being a darts expert – quite the opposite! When I first started playing, I loved the game but found keeping accurate scores and tracking stats difficult and distracting.
I figured I couldn’t be the only one struggling with this. So, I decided to build a solution: an easy-to-use application that everyone, no matter their experience level, could use to manage scoring effortlessly.
My goal for Dartcounter was simple: let the app handle the numbers – the scoring, the averages, the stats, even checkout suggestions – so players could focus purely on their throw and enjoying the game. It began as a way to solve my own beginner’s problem, and I’m thrilled it has grown into a helpful tool for the wider darts community.