Struggling with those crucial double finishes in darts? Bob’s 27 is a powerful, pressure-packed practice game designed by former world champion Bob Anderson to dramatically improve your doubles accuracy. Starting with 27 points, you systematically aim for each double from 1 to 20, then the bullseye. Hit a double, and your score increases; miss all three darts, and points are deducted. This simple yet highly effective drill builds muscle memory, identifies your weak spots, and sharpens your composure under pressure, making it an essential routine for any serious darts player looking to consistently hit those match-winning doubles.
What is Bob’s 27?
Bob’s 27 is a renowned solo darts practice game specifically engineered to enhance a player’s ability to hit doubles under pressure. Created by former world champion Bob Anderson, this drill is a staple in the routines of many professional and aspiring darts players due to its straightforward approach and profound impact on game-closing precision.
The core idea is simple: systematically work your way around the dartboard, hitting each double in sequence, all while managing a fluctuating score that reflects your accuracy.
How to Play Bob’s 27: Step-by-Step
The Setup
- Starting Score: You begin the game with 27 points.
- Target Progression: Your first target is Double 1. Once you successfully hit Double 1, you move to Double 2, then Double 3, and so on, all the way up to Double 20. The final target is the Bullseye (often considered Double 25 for scoring consistency in practice games).
Gameplay and Scoring
For each target double, you throw three darts. Your score changes based on where your darts land:
- Hitting the Target: For every dart that lands in the current target double, you add points to your score. The number of points added is equal to the value of that double (i.e., twice the number).
- Missing All Three Darts: If all three of your darts fail to hit the current target double, you lose points. The number of points deducted is equal to the value of that double.
- Partial Hits: If you hit one or two darts in the double, you gain points for those hits, and no points are deducted for the misses within that turn. Points are only deducted if none of the three darts hit the target double.
Scoring Examples:
- Target: Double 1 (worth 2 points)
- If you hit Double 1 with one dart: Your score increases by 2 points.
- If you hit Double 1 with two darts: Your score increases by 4 points.
- If you hit Double 1 with all three darts: Your score increases by 6 points.
- If you miss Double 1 with all three darts: Your score decreases by 2 points.
- Target: Double 10 (worth 20 points)
- If you hit Double 10 with one dart: Your score increases by 20 points.
- If you miss Double 10 with all three darts: Your score decreases by 20 points.
When the Game Ends
The game continues as you progress through the doubles. However, there’s a critical rule: if your score falls to zero or below at any point, the game ends immediately. This adds a significant layer of pressure, mimicking real match situations where one missed double can cost you the leg.
Why Bob’s 27 is So Effective for Darts Players
This seemingly simple game offers immense benefits for improving your darts performance:
- Direct Focus on Finishing: Unlike many practice games that emphasize high scoring, Bob’s 27 puts 100% of its attention on hitting doubles, the most crucial aspect of closing out a leg.
- Pressure Simulation: The threat of losing points and ending the game creates a realistic pressure environment. This helps players develop the composure needed to hit vital doubles when it matters most in a match.
- Repetition and Muscle Memory: Repeatedly throwing at each double builds muscle memory and hones your release, leading to more consistent accuracy over time.
- Identifying Weaknesses: You’ll quickly discover which doubles are your “bogey” numbers. Many players find doubles like 3, 7, or 11 particularly challenging. Bob’s 27 helps you pinpoint these areas for dedicated extra practice.
- Tracking Progress: By recording your scores from each session, you can visibly track your improvement. Watching your scores rise provides motivation and tangible evidence of your growing skill.
- Familiarity with the Entire Board: The game forces you to target every single double, ensuring you become comfortable and confident with all potential finishing spots, not just your favorites.
Tips for Success in Bob’s 27
- Consistency is Key: Aim to play Bob’s 27 three to four times a week. Regular practice yields the best results.
- Stay Focused: The penalty for missing all three darts is a powerful motivator. Maintain concentration throughout each round.
- Analyze Your Performance: Pay attention to which doubles consistently give you trouble. Dedicate extra time to these specific targets in separate practice sessions.
- Don’t Get Discouraged: Many players find Bob’s 27 harder than it looks. Early misses can quickly end a game. View these as learning opportunities, not failures.
Elevate Your Game with Bob’s 27
Bob’s 27 is more than just a practice drill; it’s a strategic tool that reflects the demanding moments of competitive darts. By consistently engaging with this game, you’ll not only improve your physical accuracy but also build the mental fortitude required to clinch those vital finishes. Embrace the challenge, and watch your doubles game transform.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Planet TV.
