When debating Around the Clock vs Bob’s 27, the core difference lies in the targets: Around the Clock challenges you to hit every number sequentially, whereas Bob’s 27 focuses on scoring with specific numbers using only three darts per turn. This article will comprehensively break down both dart games, exploring their rules, strategies, and why they’re great choices for different skill levels.
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Understanding Around the Clock vs Bob’s 27: A Detailed Comparison
Let’s delve into the details of Around the Clock vs Bob’s 27. Both are popular dart games, but they offer distinct gameplay experiences. Understanding these differences is key to choosing the right game for your skill level and preferences.
Around the Clock, also known as “Round the Board,” is a straightforward game perfect for beginners. The goal is simple: hit each number on the dartboard in sequential order, starting from 1 and ending at 20, and optionally the bullseye. Bob’s 27, on the other hand, introduces a scoring element and requires more strategic thinking.

Around the Clock: Rules and Gameplay
The rules of Around the Clock are exceptionally simple, making it an ideal game for new players to the world of darts. Here’s a breakdown:
- Players take turns throwing three darts.
- The objective is to hit each number on the board in sequence, from 1 to 20.
- You must hit the single, double, or triple segment of the required number to progress.
- Once you hit a number, you move on to the next number in sequence on your next turn.
- The first player to successfully hit all the numbers from 1 to 20 (and optionally the bullseye) wins.
Variations can include requiring a double for the bullseye or adding handicaps to make the game more challenging for experienced players against beginners. You can also explore how to add more fun into your dart games.
Bob’s 27: Rules and Gameplay
Bob’s 27 adds a scoring element to the mix, requiring players to strategically aim for specific numbers to reach zero. The main objective is to score down to zero.
- Each player starts with a score of 27.
- In each round, the player aims for the number they are “on”. For the first round, they aim for 1. The next, they aim for 2, and so on.
- The score of each dart thrown is deducted from the player’s total.
- If a player’s score goes below zero, their score resets to 27.
- The game continues until a player reaches exactly zero.
Bob’s 27 introduces a layer of strategic dart throwing, requiring players to think ahead and manage their scores carefully. This game helps improve accuracy and mental math skills.
Strategic Considerations in Around the Clock vs Bob’s 27
While both games are enjoyable, their strategic depths differ significantly. In Around the Clock vs Bob’s 27, the strategic choices you make will heavily influence your success. Let’s examine the strategic nuances of each game.
Around the Clock: Focus on Accuracy
The primary strategy in Around the Clock revolves around accuracy. Consistent and precise dart throws are crucial for hitting the required numbers sequentially. Here are some tips to improve your game:
- Develop a consistent throwing technique: Focus on your stance, grip, and release.
- Practice regularly: The more you practice, the more consistent you’ll become.
- Aim carefully: Take your time and visualize the dart hitting the target.
- Adjust for errors: If you consistently miss in one direction, adjust your aim accordingly.
Around the Clock is all about dart throwing accuracy. Mastering this game lays the foundation for more complex dart games.

Bob’s 27: Scoring and Risk Management
Bob’s 27 requires more strategic thinking than Around the Clock. It’s not just about hitting the target; it’s about managing your score and making calculated risks. Here’s where the strategic planning kicks in:
- Plan your shots: Consider the potential outcomes of each dart throw and how it will affect your score.
- Minimize overshooting: Avoid scoring too much and going below zero.
- Aim for doubles or triples when necessary: If you need to reduce your score significantly, aim for the double or triple of the number you’re on.
- Adapt to mistakes: If you miss a shot, adjust your strategy accordingly.
Bob’s 27 demands more than just accuracy; it tests your ability to adapt darts games skills and think strategically under pressure. It’s a great way to improve your mental game and decision-making skills.
Skill Level and Suitability: Around the Clock vs Bob’s 27
The choice between Around the Clock vs Bob’s 27 often depends on the player’s skill level. One game is more suited to new players, the other for those with a little more experience.
Around the Clock: Ideal for Beginners
Around the Clock is the perfect game for beginners due to its simple rules and straightforward gameplay. It provides a great introduction to the dartboard layout and helps develop fundamental dart throwing skills.
Here’s why it’s ideal for beginners:
- Easy to learn: The rules are simple and easy to understand.
- Focuses on accuracy: It helps develop consistent dart throwing skills.
- Low pressure: There’s no need to worry about complex scoring or strategies.
As a beginner’s game, Around the Clock helps new players get used to different skill levels and is an excellent way to build confidence and develop a love for the game.

Bob’s 27: Suited for Intermediate Players
Bob’s 27 is more challenging than Around the Clock and is better suited for intermediate players who have a good grasp of the basics and are looking to improve their strategic thinking. Scoring in dart games is a key element of this game.
Here’s why it’s suitable for intermediate players:
- Requires strategic thinking: It forces players to plan their shots and manage their score.
- Improves mental math skills: Players need to calculate their scores quickly and accurately.
- Adds a layer of complexity: It challenges players to adapt to changing circumstances and make calculated risks.
Bob’s 27 offers a step up in complexity, providing intermediate players with a challenging and rewarding gameplay experience. Handicap system fun dart games can even the playing field between players of different skill levels.
Tips and Tricks for Mastering Both Games
Whether you’re playing Around the Clock vs Bob’s 27, there are some universal tips and tricks that can help you improve your game.
General Dart Throwing Tips
- Maintain a consistent stance: Find a stance that feels comfortable and stable, and stick with it.
- Grip the dart firmly but not too tightly: Experiment with different grips to find what works best for you.
- Focus on your target: Visualize the dart hitting the target before you throw.
- Follow through with your arm: Extend your arm fully towards the target and release the dart smoothly.
- Practice regularly: The more you practice, the more consistent you’ll become.
Consistent practice and attention to detail are key to improving your dart throwing skills.

Specific Strategies for Around the Clock
- Prioritize accuracy over power: It’s better to hit the target consistently than to throw hard and miss.
- Focus on hitting the single segment: Unless you’re aiming for a specific double or triple, focus on hitting the single segment of the number you’re aiming for.
- Stay calm and focused: Don’t get discouraged if you miss a few shots. Just take a deep breath and refocus.
Specific Strategies for Bob’s 27
- Plan your shots carefully: Consider the potential outcomes of each dart throw and how it will affect your score.
- Minimize overshooting: Avoid scoring too much and going below zero.
- Use doubles and triples strategically: Aim for the double or triple of the number you’re on when you need to reduce your score significantly.
- Adapt to mistakes: If you miss a shot, adjust your strategy accordingly.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Game for You
In the end, the choice between Around the Clock vs Bob’s 27 depends on your personal preferences and skill level. Around the Clock is a great starting point for beginners, while Bob’s 27 offers a more challenging and strategic experience for intermediate players. Both games are enjoyable and can help you improve your dart throwing skills.

Regardless of which game you choose, remember to have fun and practice regularly. Darts is a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Explore different ways to modify dart games to make it fun for everyone. So, grab your darts, gather your friends, and get ready to have a great time!
Ready to elevate your dart game? Start practicing these tips today and see how quickly you improve! Consider joining a local dart league or challenging your friends to a friendly competition. Your journey to dart mastery starts now!
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.