The darts 170 checkout is the holy grail of the game, the highest possible three-dart finish; mastering it is a significant achievement. This article will break down the psychology, strategy, and practice techniques to help you get closer to that elusive perfect game-winning shot, covering everything from calculating the combinations to dealing with the pressure.
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The Allure of the Darts 170 Checkout
There’s something undeniably captivating about witnessing a darts 170 checkout. The sheer precision, the mathematical calculation, and the dramatic finish create a moment of pure sporting brilliance. It’s a feat that separates good players from great ones, and for amateur players, achieving it is often a lifetime goal. While statistically rare, understanding the approach and developing the skills significantly increases your chances.
The 170 checkout, often called the “big fish”, has become synonymous with excellence in darts. It represents the pinnacle of scoring and accuracy, requiring a Treble 20, a Treble 20, and a Bullseye. This combination is not only difficult to execute physically, but also requires mental fortitude and strategic planning under pressure. We will explore the mental game in more detail later.

Breaking Down the Darts 170 Checkout: The Numbers
The darts 170 checkout is mathematically simple, yet incredibly difficult to execute consistently. It always requires the same combination: T20, T20, Bullseye (60 + 60 + 50 = 170). Unlike other checkouts where there might be multiple routes, this one is fixed. This simplicity can be a psychological advantage; there’s no need to overthink the combination.
However, this fixed nature also means there’s no room for error. Each dart must land precisely where intended. A slight miscalculation or a moment of pressure can derail the entire attempt. Practice becomes crucial in building the muscle memory and confidence required to execute this checkout effectively. A good Darts scoreboard app can help you track your progress and analyze your performance.
Understanding the Probabilities of a Darts 170 Checkout
While the darts 170 checkout is often touted as the hardest, assessing its *relative* difficulty is useful. The probabilities can be seen as three separate events multiplied: the chance of hitting a T20, followed by another T20, and finally the Bullseye. The first T20 is crucial; missing it significantly reduces your chances of completing the checkout. Many players feel pressure to “go for it” when they have a 170 left, but a strategic approach can be more effective.
Developing a Darts 170 Checkout Strategy
A successful darts 170 checkout isn’t just about physical skill; it’s also about strategic decision-making. Knowing when to go for the 170, and when to opt for a safer route, is crucial.
- Assessing Your Skill Level: Be realistic about your average score and accuracy. If you consistently struggle to hit treble 20s, attempting the darts 170 checkout under pressure might be a low-percentage play. Consider leaving yourself a smaller, more manageable number.
- Understanding the Game Situation: Are you ahead or behind? What’s your opponent’s score? The game context should influence your decision. If you are way behind and your opponent is near a finish, attempting a 170 to catch up could be a high-risk, high-reward strategy.
- Practicing Alternative Routes: Don’t become fixated on the 170. Practice leaving yourself other checkouts, such as 164 (T20, T18, D16) or 167 (T20, T19, D16). Versatility is key.

The Mental Game of the Darts 170 Checkout
The pressure associated with a darts 170 checkout can be immense. Knowing you have the opportunity to achieve this feat can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Mastering the mental aspect of the game is as important as physical skill. Many players can perform the combination in practice, but struggle under the spotlight.
Here are some strategies to improve your mental game:
- Visualization: Regularly visualize yourself successfully completing the darts 170 checkout. This helps build confidence and reduces anxiety.
- Breathing Techniques: Practice deep breathing exercises to calm your nerves before and during your throw. Controlling your breathing can significantly impact your focus.
- Focus on the Process: Instead of fixating on the outcome, concentrate on the mechanics of your throw. Focus on your stance, grip, and release.
- Embrace the Pressure: Acknowledge the pressure, but don’t let it overwhelm you. View it as a challenge and an opportunity to showcase your skills. Remember, even if you miss, it’s a learning experience.
Effective Practice Techniques for a Darts 170 Checkout
Consistent practice is essential for improving your chances of hitting the darts 170 checkout. However, simply throwing darts aimlessly won’t be effective. You need a structured practice regime focused on accuracy and consistency.
- Target Practice: Spend time specifically targeting the treble 20 and the bullseye. Use different practice drills that isolate these targets.
- Repetition: Practice the T20, T20, Bullseye sequence repeatedly. Focus on maintaining consistency in your throw.
- Simulated Pressure: Recreate match-like conditions during practice. Have a friend call out scores and create distractions. Use a darts scorer online app to track your progress.
- Consistency Drills: Concentrate on hitting the T20 repeatedly. Even if you don’t have 170 left, consistent scoring in the T20 will bring that possibility closer and closer.

The Right Equipment for a Darts 170 Checkout
Having the right darts equipment can make a subtle, yet important difference in your game. While equipment alone won’t guarantee a darts 170 checkout, using darts that suit your throwing style and grip can improve your overall accuracy and consistency. Consider exploring different darts flights and shafts to find the best combination for you.
- Darts Weight: Experiment with different dart weights to find what feels most comfortable and controllable.
- Dart Grip: Choose a dart grip that provides a secure and consistent hold.
- Dart Flights: Use flights that provide the right amount of stability and aerodynamics for your throwing style.
- Dart Shafts: Select shafts that complement your flights and provide the desired balance. Consider which dart shafts are best for your needs.
Alternative High Checkouts and Strategic Considerations
While the darts 170 checkout is the highest, it’s important to be proficient at other high checkouts as well. Being able to confidently check out on 164, 167, 161, and other similar scores makes you a more versatile and dangerous player. A player who can hit other checkouts, like a 161 (T20, T17, Bull), is less likely to force a 170 if the opportunity arises. This also increases mental confidence as you are more flexible.
Strategic considerations are also important. If you miss the first T20 while going for a darts 170 checkout, you need to have a plan for the next two darts. Don’t just throw them aimlessly. Consider what numbers you need to leave yourself for a manageable checkout with your remaining darts.

Learning from the Pros: Darts 170 Checkout Examples
Watching professional darts players attempt and occasionally achieve the darts 170 checkout can provide valuable insights. Observe their technique, their mental approach, and their reactions to both success and failure. Analyze their strategies and try to incorporate some of their techniques into your own game. You may find that some players, such as Stephen Bunting darts stars, have unique setups or throws that you can adapt.
Many professional matches showcase moments where players attempt the darts 170 checkout. Studying these instances can provide real-world examples of how pressure, strategy, and skill combine to create these spectacular moments. Remember, even the pros miss the 170 checkout far more often than they hit it.
Troubleshooting Common Problems with the Darts 170 Checkout
Many players face common challenges when attempting the darts 170 checkout. Identifying and addressing these problems is essential for improvement.
- Inconsistent Throw: If your throw is inconsistent, you’ll struggle to hit the T20 and bullseye consistently. Work on refining your throwing technique and developing a repeatable motion.
- Nerves: Nerves can significantly impact your accuracy. Practice techniques for managing pressure and staying calm under pressure.
- Poor Target Selection: Make sure you are aiming at the correct part of the board. Even a slight miscalculation can throw off your entire attempt.
- Equipment Issues: Ensure your darts are properly maintained and suited to your throwing style.

Conclusion: Mastering the Darts 170 Checkout – A Journey, Not a Destination
The darts 170 checkout is a challenging but achievable goal for any darts player. It requires a combination of skill, strategy, mental fortitude, and consistent practice. While hitting the 170 is a great achievement, the journey of improving your game and striving for excellence is equally rewarding. Embrace the challenge, learn from your mistakes, and keep practicing. Remember, even if you never hit the 170, the skills you develop along the way will make you a better darts player. Download the Darts scoreboard app (https://dartcounterapp.com/) today and track your progress!
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.