Unlock the secrets to darts crazy checkouts! This article will guide you through mastering those high-pressure finishes that separate the good from the great, and teach you some of the most unconventional routes to victory. We’ll explore key strategies, common checkouts, and practice drills to elevate your game.
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Understanding Darts Crazy Checkouts
Darts crazy checkouts are those unconventional routes players take to finish a leg when their scoring hasn’t been optimal. They often involve hitting numbers that wouldn’t normally be considered, requiring quick mental arithmetic and nerves of steel. A player might be forced into a checkout involving odd numbers and unusual combinations because of earlier missed opportunities. Mastering these checkouts is crucial for any serious darts player.

The Importance of Mental Math
The core skill underpinning all darts crazy checkouts is mental arithmetic. Being able to quickly calculate remaining scores, potential outs, and alternative routes is essential. Regular practice with different starting scores will improve your mental agility and allow you to react effectively to unexpected situations during a match.
- Practice drills: Set up different starting scores (e.g., 117, 83, 59) and try to find the most efficient checkout.
- Visualize: Before each throw, visualize the dart hitting the desired target and the resulting score reduction.
- Know your outs: Familiarize yourself with common two-dart and three-dart checkouts.
Common Darts Checkout Combinations
While darts crazy checkouts often require improvisation, there are several common combinations that frequently appear. Knowing these can give you a head start when faced with an awkward remaining score. It can also help your game if you know dart shaft size.
The 167 Checkout (T20, T19, D5)
The 167 checkout, requiring a T20, T19 and Double 5, isn’t strictly “crazy,” but it is a vital checkout to have in your arsenal when you are sat on an odd number finish that would have otherwise been more comfortable on an even number out shot. Many amateur players will bail out to set up a more common two-dart finish, but the 167 is the higher percentage play.

Unusual Two-Dart Checkouts
Some two-dart combinations are less common but can be incredibly useful for clearing up awkward scores. For example:
- 86: T20, D13: A less obvious but effective route.
- 96: T20, D18: Useful if the bullseye is blocked or feels risky.
- 99: T19, D21: Not a traditional out, but viable!
Strategies for Approaching Darts Crazy Checkouts
When you find yourself needing darts crazy checkouts, approach it strategically. Don’t panic and throw blindly. Consider the following:
Assessing the Situation
Take a moment to assess your remaining score and possible options. Consider:
- What’s the highest number I can realistically hit?
- What doubles are available and which am I most confident in?
- Is there a way to leave myself on a more favorable number for the next round?
Playing for Position
Sometimes, the best approach is not to attempt an immediate checkout, but to play for position. This means hitting a number that leaves you on a more manageable score for your next visit. For example, if you need 137, hitting a single 17 leaves you on the bullseye (120), which is often a preferred target compared to attempting a 137 checkout directly.
Embrace the Pressure
Darts crazy checkouts often happen in high-pressure situations. Embrace the challenge and try to stay calm. Focus on your technique and trust your practice. Remember, your opponent is also feeling the pressure!
Practicing Darts Crazy Checkouts
The key to mastering darts crazy checkouts is practice. Here are some drills you can incorporate into your training routine:
Random Number Generator
Use a random number generator to create a series of random scores between 41 and 170. Try to find the most efficient checkout for each score. This will force you to think on your feet and expand your checkout knowledge.

The “Around the Clock” Doubles Game
Instead of starting at double 1, start at a random double (e.g., double 13) and work your way around the board. This will improve your accuracy on less familiar doubles and build your confidence in hitting them under pressure. Don’t forget to check out the mission darts release.
Simulated Match Scenarios
Create simulated match scenarios where you deliberately put yourself in difficult scoring positions. This could involve missing doubles or hitting low scores on purpose. Then, practice finding your way out of those situations. This helps you to practice darts hoe mikken.
The Psychology of Darts Checkouts
Mental fortitude is just as important as technical skill when it comes to darts crazy checkouts. The ability to stay calm, focused, and confident under pressure can make all the difference. Here are some psychological tips:
Visualization Techniques
Before each throw, visualize the dart hitting the target. Imagine the trajectory of the dart and the feeling of success. This can help to boost your confidence and improve your focus.
Positive Self-Talk
Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Tell yourself that you can hit the checkout and that you are capable of performing under pressure. Avoid dwelling on past mistakes and focus on the present moment.
Dealing with Nerves
It’s normal to feel nervous when faced with a difficult checkout. Acknowledge your nerves and try to manage them. Deep breathing exercises and mindfulness techniques can help to calm your mind and body.
Advanced Darts Checkout Strategies
Beyond the basics, advanced players employ strategies to manipulate the game and force opponents into difficult checkout situations. A key part of these is knowing your way around Best darts scoring app.

Blocking Doubles
Strategically placing darts to obstruct your opponent’s preferred doubles can force them into riskier shots or less favorable checkouts. This requires a deep understanding of your opponent’s preferences and weaknesses.
Deliberate Setups
Sometimes, it’s advantageous to intentionally leave yourself on a seemingly difficult checkout to gain a psychological edge. This can involve leaving scores that force your opponent to doubt your abilities or to underestimate your chances of success. If you ever encounter darts walk on fails, this may work.
Analyzing Pro Darts Crazy Checkouts
Studying how professional darts players handle difficult checkouts can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Pay attention to their decision-making process, their body language, and their ability to stay calm under pressure.
Examples from the Pros
There are countless examples of darts crazy checkouts from the professional circuit. Watch videos of classic matches and analyze the key moments where players were forced to improvise. Pay attention to the numbers they hit, the routes they took, and the psychological factors that influenced their performance. You might even see a dart board van gerwen in use!

Learning from Their Mistakes
Even the best players make mistakes. Analyzing these mistakes can be just as valuable as studying their successes. Identify the errors in judgment, the technical flaws, and the psychological factors that contributed to their missed checkouts. This will help you to avoid making similar mistakes in your own game.
Conclusion
Mastering darts crazy checkouts requires a combination of mental agility, strategic thinking, and unwavering confidence. By understanding common combinations, practicing regularly, and embracing the pressure, you can elevate your game to the next level. Start implementing the strategies and drills outlined in this article, and you’ll be hitting those unconventional finishes in no time. Now, go practice those tricky checkouts and dominate your next match!
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.