How to Create the Ultimate Darts Setup at Home
A well-designed darts setup can drastically improve your gameplay experience and help sharpen your skills, whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting your journey. A professional setup not only enhances accuracy and consistency but also makes the game more enjoyable and immersive. By creating an environment that mirrors a pub or competition-level setting, your home dartboard area becomes a perfect space for improving your performance while enjoying the convenience of practicing at home.
Choosing the Right Dartboard for Your Setup
The dartboard is the centerpiece of your playing area, and choosing the right one sets the foundation for a great game. There are two main types of dartboards to consider: traditional steel tip dartboards and electronic dartboards. Each option has its unique features and caters to different playing styles. Your decision will depend on your preferences, skill level, and how you plan to use the board.
Steel Tip vs. Soft Tip Dartboards
Steel tip dartboards are widely regarded as the choice for serious players and are used in professional competitions worldwide. If you’re aiming to improve for tournaments or competitive play, a steel tip dartboard is essential. On the other hand, soft tip dartboards are designed for more casual environments and are often found in electronic setups. These boards are safer, making them ideal for homes with children or players who prefer a more laid-back experience.
For high-quality steel tip dartboards, the Winmau Blade 6 Dartboard is a fantastic option, while the Arachnid Cricket Pro 800 Electronic Dartboard is a top choice for soft tip players looking for versatility and game variety.
Bristle Dartboards: The Best Choice for Serious Players
Bristle dartboards, made from densely packed sisal fibers, are known for their durability and ability to “self-heal” after the darts are removed. This makes them an excellent investment for players who practice frequently. They are also the go-to option for steel tip darts, offering a consistent playing surface that can handle years of use.
If you’re looking for a reliable and budget-friendly option, the Viper Shot King Sisal Dartboard offers fantastic value with its long-lasting sisal construction and included accessories like a throw line and mounting hardware.
Electronic Dartboards: A Modern Twist
For those who prefer convenience and modern features, electronic dartboards are the way to go. With built-in scoring systems, multiplayer modes, and a wide range of games, electronic boards provide a tech-savvy option for players who want to focus more on playing than on keeping score.
The Viper 800 Electronic Soft Tip Dartboard is an excellent choice, boasting a wide variety of games and an easy-to-read LED display, making it perfect for solo or group play.
Mounting Your Dartboard at the Correct Height and Distance
Proper mounting is crucial to ensure consistency in your practice and gameplay. Adhering to regulation height and distance measurements not only helps you replicate professional conditions but also makes your practice sessions more effective.
Official Dartboard Height and Distance for Steel Tip and Soft Tip Dartboards
For steel tip dartboards, the center of the bullseye should be 5 feet 8 inches from the ground, while the throw line (or oche) should be 7 feet 9¼ inches from the face of the dartboard. For electronic dartboards, which are commonly used with soft tip darts, the oche distance is slightly longer at 8 feet.
Backboard, Surrounds, and Wall Protection: Safeguarding Your Space
One of the biggest challenges in setting up a home darts area is protecting your walls and furniture from stray darts. Fortunately, there are several solutions to keep your space safe while giving your setup a professional look.
Choosing the Right Backboard
A backboard is an excellent way to prevent darts from damaging your walls. It sits behind the dartboard and catches any errant throws. For a clean and polished appearance, the Viper Defender III Extended Backboard offers comprehensive protection while adding a sleek, professional touch to your setup.
Dartboard Surrounds for Extra Protection
Dartboard surrounds are another popular option for wall protection. These soft, circular rings fit around the dartboard to catch any missed throws, offering easy installation and a streamlined look. The Winmau Xtreme Dartboard Surround is a top pick for players who want effective wall protection without compromising style.
DIY vs. Store-Bought Wall Protection Solutions
If you’re handy, you might consider a DIY solution like creating a custom backboard from corkboard or wood. However, store-bought backboards and surrounds are specifically designed for darts, offering superior protection and ease of installation.
Lighting: Optimizing Visibility and Minimizing Shadows
Good lighting is often overlooked in darts setups, but it plays a crucial role in ensuring that you can see the board clearly and avoid shadows that can interfere with your aim.
Lighting Types for Dartboards
LED ring lights are the preferred lighting solution for most players, providing even illumination and eliminating shadows. The Target Corona Vision Dartboard LED Lighting System is a popular option, offering 360-degree lighting that easily clips onto any dartboard for a sleek, shadow-free playing experience.
Positioning Lights for Maximum Effectiveness
If you prefer traditional overhead lighting, ensure its bright enough to illuminate the board evenly. Position the light directly above the dartboard to minimize shadows and avoid placing it where it could cause glare or distractions.
For overhead lighting, the Winmau Polaris 120 Degree Lighting System offers an easy-to-install solution that provides bright, even lighting while maintaining a professional appearance.
The Throw Line (Oche): Precision in Every Throw
Marking the throw line accurately is essential for honing your skills. Whether you’re using a traditional tape or a modern laser oche, ensuring you stand at the correct distance will help improve your consistency and precision.
Using a Laser Oche for a Sleek, Professional Look
A laser oche is a great way to give your setup a modern touch while ensuring accuracy. The Viper Laser Dart Line Marker projects a bright, clear throw line onto the floor, making it easy to set up and offering a clean, professional appearance.
Dartboard Mats and Floor Protection
A dart mat not only protects your floor from dropped darts but can also serve as a convenient way to mark the throw line. Dart mats are typically made of durable rubber or foam, which absorbs impact and prevents damage to floors.
Dart Mats: Protection for Your Floor and Darts
If your setup is over a hardwood floor or carpet, a dart mat like the Winmau Outshot Dart Mat can protect your flooring while adding a professional touch to your playing area.
Mats with Oche Markings
Some dart mats, like the Viper Throw/Toe Line Dart Mat, come pre-marked with official throw line distances for both steel tip and soft tip darts, making them a great choice for players who want an all-in-one solution.
Darts Storage and Organization
Keeping your darts and accessories organized is essential for maintaining a professional and tidy setup. Wall-mounted dart holders and cases provide practical solutions for storing your equipment.
Wall-Mounted Darts Holders
A wall-mounted dart holder keeps your darts easily accessible while adding a touch of organization to your setup. Many holders also include space for additional accessories, making it easy to keep everything in one place.
Darts Cases for Easy Transport
If you frequently travel with your darts, investing in a quality darts case is a must. Cases come in various sizes and styles, offering protection and convenience for both steel tip and soft tip darts.
Perfecting Your Home Darts Setup
Creating the ultimate darts setup at home takes careful planning, but the payoff is well worth the effort. With the right dartboard, accurate measurements, and a few well-chosen accessories, you can transform any space into a professional-quality darts area that’s perfect for practice and play. Whether you’re playing casually or preparing for competition, a well-designed setup will help you improve your game and enjoy hours of darts at home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What is the ideal height to hang a dartboard?
Answer: The standard height for hanging a dartboard is 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) from the floor to the center of the bullseye. This ensures an accurate playing height based on professional standards.
How far should I stand from the dartboard when playing?
Answer: For steel tip darts, the official throw line (oche) distance is 7 feet 9 ¼ inches (2.37 meters) from the face of the dartboard. For soft tip (electronic) dartboards, the distance is typically 8 feet.
What type of dartboard should I choose?
Answer: A bristle dartboard is the most popular for steel tip darts and is used in professional settings. For casual or electronic play, a soft tip dartboard can be ideal.
Do I need a dartboard surround?
Answer: Yes, a dartboard surround protects your wall from stray darts and reduces noise. It’s a useful addition, especially if you play frequently or have limited wall space.
What is the best floor protection for a darts setup?
Answer: A dart mat is recommended for floor protection. It not only prevents floor damage from fallen darts but also often includes marked throw lines for convenience.
How can I keep track of scores easily?
Answer: A chalkboard or dry-erase board is a traditional method, but for ease of use, consider digital scoring options or apps that automate the scoring process.
What lighting should I use for my dartboard?
Answer: A dedicated dartboard light or ring light is ideal for providing even, shadow-free illumination. LED lights are energy-efficient and long-lasting options.
Do I need a specific area for my dart setup?
Answer: Yes, it’s best to have at least 11 feet of length and 5 feet of width in your space. This allows room for proper throw distance and player movement.
What type of darts should I use?
Answer: Steel tip darts are for traditional bristle boards, while soft tip darts are for electronic boards. Choose a weight that feels comfortable to you, typically between 18 and 26 grams.
How can I store my darts and accessories neatly?
Answer: A dart holder or case is a great way to organize and store your darts, flights, and other accessories. Wall-mounted racks are another neat storage solution.
