Darts What Is A Double? Nail Doubles FAST!

In darts, **what is a double**? It’s landing your dart in a section of the board that doubles the value of that number, typically to finish a leg or match. This article will explain doubles in detail, covering their importance, strategy, and how to effectively target them to improve your game.

Darts What is a Double: A Deep Dive

Understanding **darts what is a double** is crucial for any serious darts player. It’s not just about hitting the target; it’s about hitting the right target to close out a game. Doubles are the key to finishing legs in most dart games, especially the ever-popular 501.

Without a good understanding of doubles, you’ll find yourself constantly leaving awkward scores and struggling to convert your visits into wins. Many beginners focus on hitting the treble 20, but mastering the outer ring is equally, if not more, important for consistent success in darts.

Why Doubles Matter in Darts

Doubles are essential because they are most commonly used to finish a leg of darts. For example, in a game of 501, you need to reduce your score to zero and end with a dart in a double. Without a successful double, your turn ends, and your opponent gets another chance to win the leg. The ability to consistently hit doubles is a hallmark of a skilled darts player.

Imagine consistently hitting high scores, like 140s and 100s, but failing to convert when you get down to a double. All that hard work goes to waste! That’s why practicing your doubles is just as important as practicing your scoring.

Understanding the Dartboard and Doubles

The dartboard is divided into 20 numbered sections, each with single, double, and treble areas. The **outer ring** of the dartboard represents the double section. Landing a dart in this section multiplies the value of that section by two.

• Double 20: Worth 40 points.
• Double 1: Worth 2 points.
• Double 12: Worth 24 points.

Every number on the board has a corresponding double, including the bullseye, where the **outer bull (or ‘double bull’) is worth 50**. The bullseye and 25 ring are often a target in different game formats.

Common Doubles and Strategies

Some doubles are more frequently used than others, depending on the remaining score. Here’s a breakdown of some common doubles and strategies for approaching them:

Double 20 (D20) – The Classic Finisher

Double 20, worth 40 points, is arguably the most common and popular double to aim for. It’s a large target and is often used when a player has a score between 40 and 60 remaining.

Strategy: Aim slightly above the center of the double 20 to account for dart droop. Consistent practice is key to mastering this double.

Double 16 (D16) – Reliable and Consistent

Double 16, worth 32 points, is another popular and reliable double. Many professional players prefer it to double 20 because it can be set up more easily from a wider range of scores.

Strategy: Similar to double 20, aim for the center, but focus on a smooth and consistent release. If you miss low, you are still in the 16 segment and have another shot at the double.

Double 12 (D12) – A Strategic Choice

Double 12, worth 24 points, is a strategically important double. It allows players to leave double 16 with a single 8 if they miss and a D8 if they hit a treble. This gives them a good outshot combination on their next throw.

Strategy: D12 requires precision, but the payoff can be significant in setting up future finishes. Practice aiming small, aiming for consistency.

Double 1 (D1) – The Pressure Point

Double 1, worth 2 points, is notorious for causing pressure and nerves, even for seasoned professionals. It’s often the last double standing between a player and victory, and can be surprisingly difficult to hit under pressure.

Strategy: Focus on your breathing and visualization. Treat it like any other double, and don’t let the pressure get to you. Consider watching throwing darts reddit streams to see how others handle the pressure.

Practicing Doubles: Effective Drills

Mastering doubles requires dedicated practice. Here are some effective drills to improve your double accuracy and consistency:

• The Round the Clock Drill: Start at double 1 and work your way around the board to double 20. Aim for each double three times before moving on.
• The 40 Drill: Repeatedly aim for double 20. This helps to develop muscle memory and consistency.
• The Checkout Drill: Simulate real game scenarios by starting with a random score and attempting to checkout using doubles. You can use a Mobile dart scorer to track your progress.

The Mental Game of Doubles

Hitting doubles is not just about technique; it’s also about mental strength. The pressure of needing a double to win can be immense, and it’s crucial to develop strategies for managing nerves and staying focused.

Here are some tips for improving your mental game when it comes to hitting doubles:

• Visualization: Before throwing, visualize the dart hitting the double. This can help to build confidence and focus.
• Breathing Techniques: Deep, controlled breathing can help to calm your nerves and improve focus.
• Positive Self-Talk: Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Believe in your ability to hit the double.
• Routine: Establish a pre-throw routine to help you stay focused and consistent.

Equipment Considerations for Double Hitting

The darts you use can also affect your ability to hit doubles consistently. Consider the following:

• Dart Weight: Experiment with different dart weights to find what feels most comfortable and gives you the best control.
• Dart Shafts and Flights: Different shaft and flight combinations can affect the trajectory of your darts. Experiment to find what works best for you. Consider using dart shaft ring grips to improve your grip.
• Dartboard Condition: A worn-out dartboard can make it difficult to hit doubles consistently. Ensure that your dartboard is in good condition and the wires are thin. Consider using a bullseye dart skin.

Beyond 501: Doubles in Other Dart Games

While doubles are most prominently featured in 501, they also play a role in other dart games:

• Around the World: Players must hit each number on the dartboard in sequence, finishing with the corresponding double.
• Cricket: Doubles and triples are used to close out numbers and score points.

Even in games where doubles aren’t the primary focus, practicing them will improve your overall accuracy and consistency.

Advanced Double Strategies

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can start exploring more advanced double strategies. These include:

• Setting Up Outs: Planning your throws to leave yourself with a favorable double on your next turn.
• Switching Doubles: Changing your target double based on the position of your previous darts.
• Using the “Big Number” Strategy: Aiming for the largest possible score (e.g., treble 20) to reduce your score quickly, even if it means leaving a slightly more difficult double.

Understanding these strategies can give you a significant advantage over your opponents. You might even find inspiration from popular players who use a professional darts set luke littler uses.

Maintaining Your Dartboard for Optimal Double Hitting

The condition of your dartboard significantly impacts your ability to consistently hit doubles. Regular maintenance is key:

• Rotate Your Dartboard: Regularly rotating your dartboard distributes wear evenly across the surface, preventing certain areas from becoming overly worn. This helps to maintain consistent bristle density and reduces bounce-outs.
• Keep the Board Clean: Dust and debris can accumulate on the dartboard’s surface, affecting dart adhesion. Wipe the board down regularly with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions, as they can damage the bristles.
• Check and Tighten the Spider: The spider (the wire framework separating the scoring sections) can loosen over time. Regularly inspect the spider and tighten any loose wires to prevent bounce-outs and ensure accurate scoring. Consider using a dartboard hook to make rotation easier.
• Replace Worn Boards: Even with proper maintenance, dartboards eventually wear out. Replace your dartboard when the bristles become excessively worn, the colors fade significantly, or the spider becomes damaged beyond repair.

Troubleshooting Common Double Hitting Problems

Even with practice, you may encounter challenges in hitting doubles consistently. Here are some common problems and potential solutions:

• Bounce-Outs: Check your dartboard for worn areas, tighten the spider, and ensure your darts have sharp points.
• Missing Low: Adjust your grip and release to ensure a more consistent trajectory. Focus on pushing the dart towards the target rather than dropping your elbow.
• Missing High: Aim slightly lower on the double. Pay attention to your follow-through and ensure you’re releasing the dart smoothly.
• Inconsistent Grouping: Experiment with different dart setups (shafts, flights) and focus on developing a consistent throwing motion. You may also want to research darts techniek for extra support.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Doubles

Understanding **darts what is a double** and mastering the art of hitting them consistently is paramount to success in darts. From understanding the board layout to practicing effective drills and managing the mental game, a comprehensive approach is key. Remember to focus on your technique, practice regularly, and stay mentally strong, and you’ll be hitting those crucial doubles in no time. Ready to elevate your dart game? Start practicing your doubles today and watch your scores soar!