Who Throws First Darts? Win More Games Now!

Figuring out who throws first darts is a crucial part of any darts match, and generally, the winner of a bullseye throw, or “diddle for the middle,” gets the privilege. This article explains the process in detail and covers everything you need to know about determining the starting player, plus other important darts etiquette.

The Diddle for the Middle: Deciding Who Throws First Darts

The most common and widely accepted method for determining who throws first darts is the “diddle for the middle,” sometimes also referred to as “bulling up.” It’s a simple, fair way to decide the starting player and is used in both casual and professional darts games. The basic process involves each player throwing one dart at the bullseye. The player whose dart lands closest to the bullseye gets to throw first.

• Throwing Order: Players alternate throwing one dart each.
• Target: Aim for the very center of the bullseye (the “bull”).
• Measuring: The distance from the dart to the center of the bull determines the winner.

Diddle Rules and Variations

While the core principle remains the same, there are some common variations and rules to be aware of when deciding who throws first darts:

• Dart in the Bullseye: If one player’s dart lands directly in the bullseye, they automatically win the diddle.
• Both in the Bullseye: If both players hit the bullseye, they repeat the process until one dart is closer.
• Dart Outside the Board: A dart that completely misses the board, bounces out, or hits the spider (the wire separating sections) is considered a zero. This is important for fair play; practice darts room set up and ensure sufficient room for throwing darts.
• Dart Obstructing the View: If a dart is blocking the view of the bullseye for the second player, the first player’s dart can be marked, removed, and then replaced *exactly* where it was before the second player throws.

Alternative Methods for Determining First Throw

While the diddle for the middle is the standard, there are a few other methods, though they’re less common in competitive settings. These alternatives can be useful in casual games or when a dartboard isn’t available. These methods of scoring use similar techniques to any Best darts scoring app

• Coin Toss: A simple coin toss can quickly determine who throws first.
• Rock, Paper, Scissors: A classic game of Rock, Paper, Scissors offers a fair and playful way to decide.
• Higher Number Call: One player calls out a number, and the other player has to guess a higher number to go first.

The Advantage of Throwing First in Darts

There’s a long-standing debate in the darts world about whether throwing first actually provides a significant advantage. Statistically, the player who throws first darts does tend to win more often. This edge, though small, is attributed to a few factors:

• Psychological Advantage: Throwing first can give a player a psychological boost, putting pressure on their opponent to respond.
• Setting the Pace: The first player gets to set the pace and rhythm of the match.
• Opportunity to Break: In legs that aren’t your own throw, having the first throw allows you to ‘break’ the leg from the other player.

Darts Etiquette: Fair Play and Respect

Beyond knowing who throws first darts, understanding darts etiquette is crucial for maintaining a positive and respectful playing environment. Here are some essential guidelines:

• Wait Your Turn: Always wait for your opponent to finish their throw before approaching the oche (throwing line).
• No Distractions: Avoid making noise or distracting your opponent while they’re throwing.
• Respect the Equipment: Treat the dartboard and darts with respect. Do not throw darts when no board is present.
• Call Your Scores Clearly: Announce your scores clearly and accurately, using standard darts terminology, like those that darts score announcers use.
• Be a Good Sport: Win or lose, maintain a positive attitude and congratulate your opponent on a well-played game.

Understanding Leg and Set Play

In a standard darts match, determining who throws first darts varies depending on whether it’s a leg or a set.

Legs

A leg is the smallest unit of a darts match. In the first leg, the diddle for the middle determines who throws first. In subsequent legs, the loser of the previous leg typically throws first. This ensures a fair rotation of the advantage. For example, you need to know if a voltage darts player lost his leg, to know who’s next!

Sets

A set consists of a predetermined number of legs (usually best of three or five). At the beginning of each set, the players will perform the diddle for the middle again. This rotation adds another layer of fairness and strategic depth to the game.

Advanced Strategies Around First Throw

Experienced darts players often develop strategies that take advantage of throwing first. While simply throwing first doesn’t guarantee a win, it opens opportunities to control the flow of the game. Consider this:

• Targeting Specific Checkouts: Knowing you throw first allows you to aim for specific checkouts, putting pressure on your opponent.
• Playing a Defensive Game: You can play a more defensive game if you are throwing first.
• Mind Games: The psychological impact of consistently throwing first can affect your opponent’s confidence.

Practice and Consistency

Ultimately, regardless of who throws first darts, consistent practice and a solid throwing technique are the most important factors for success. Focus on developing a smooth and repeatable throw, improving your accuracy, and mastering common checkout combinations. This ensures high scores against popular dartboards such as a unicorn striker dartboard.

Dealing with Disputes

Occasionally, disputes can arise regarding who won the diddle or who’s turn it is to throw. It’s essential to handle these situations with fairness and sportsmanship. Here are some tips:

• Review the Rules: Make sure both players understand the agreed-upon rules.
• Consult a Third Party: If possible, ask a neutral observer to help resolve the dispute.
• Replay the Diddle: If there’s genuine doubt about the winner of the diddle, replay it.
• Focus on Fair Play: Remember that darts is a game of skill and sportsmanship. Avoid getting bogged down in minor disagreements.

The Evolution of Rules in Professional Darts

The rules governing who throws first darts in professional tournaments have evolved over time to ensure fairness and competitive balance. Organizations like the PDC (Professional Darts Corporation) and the WDF (World Darts Federation) have specific regulations that dictate the throwing order and tie-breaking procedures.

Beyond the Basics: Other Factors Influencing the Game

While determining who throws first darts is important, remember that many other factors can influence the outcome of a darts match, including the players’ skill levels, their mental state, the quality of their equipment, and the atmosphere of the venue. So, even if you lose the diddle, you can always turn things around!

Keep in mind to check your local listings, or darts governing body for more details on future darts tournaments 2025.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of the Diddle and Beyond

Knowing who throws first darts and understanding the rules surrounding it is fundamental to playing darts. By mastering the diddle for the middle, practicing good darts etiquette, and developing sound throwing strategies, you can improve your game and enjoy the sport to the fullest. So, step up to the oche, aim for the bullseye, and may the best darter win! Now that you know how to determine the first thrower, why not try practicing and perfecting your own dart throwing technique? Good luck, and happy darting!

Dieter

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.