How to Throw Darts: Stance, Grip, Aim and Release

How to throw darts? Stand side-on behind the throw line with your dominant foot forward, hold the dart lightly at the middle of the barrel, raise it to eye level, then move only your forearm back and forward and release toward the target while your arm follows through. Repeat the same stance, grip and release every time.

Below is a step-by-step guide to throwing darts for beginners: stance, grip, aim, release, follow-through and simple drills. Playing in a league? Browse our dart jerseys with pockets.

How far do you stand when throwing darts?

Darts Corner notes that "The official throw line in steel tip darts is 7 feet 9¼ inches (2.37m) and 8 feet (2.44m) for soft tip." The throw line is called the oche, and your feet must stay behind it (Darts Corner, How To Throw A Dart). Check your league rules too, since soft tip venues may set their own line.

How to throw darts, step by step

1. Pick a stance and keep it

Darts Corner lists three common stances: forward, closed and open. It says "There is no right or wrong way to stand, but it is important to use the same stance every time you throw for consistency." For beginners it suggests the forward stance: dominant foot in front, toe at the oche, most of your weight on that foot.

2. Grip the barrel lightly

Most players use three fingers: thumb, forefinger and middle finger. Darts Corner recommends that beginners "hold the dart in the center of the barrel" and "do not grip the dart too tightly, but with just enough pressure so that you are in control."

3. Aim at eye level

Raise the dart to eye level and aim with your dominant eye. Look at the exact spot you want to hit, not the whole number.

4. Move only the forearm

Keep your elbow steady and your shoulder still. Draw the forearm back toward your face, then bring it forward in one smooth motion.

5. Release and follow through

Let the dart go as your arm moves forward and keep your hand pointing at the target after release. A full follow-through keeps the throw straight.

Do you twist a dart when throwing?

Most coaches teach a straight release without a twist, because extra wrist movement adds variables. A small natural wrist snap is fine if it happens the same way every throw. Focus on repeating one motion before changing your grip or darts.

How to aim darts better: common mistakes

• Gripping too hard. Tight fingers pull the dart off line.
• Moving the elbow down. Your elbow can rise a little on release, but should not drop.
• Leaning differently each throw. Mark where your feet go and use the same spot.
• Rushing. Take the same short pause before each dart.

Simple darts practice drills

• Around the clock: hit 1 through 20 in order, then the bull.
• Bull practice: throw 30 darts at the bull and count hits. Track it weekly.
• Doubles practice: pick one double and throw 3 darts at it per round.
• Game play: learn how to play 501 darts and how to play cricket darts.

What to wear when throwing darts

Wear a shirt that does not pull across the shoulder when you raise your arm. Many league players like a chest pocket for a spare flight or chalk. Our dart jerseys can be personalized with your name and team name, and many designs offer a pocket option in Men Polo with Pocket and Men Quarter-Zip with Pocket styles, from $39.99 ($41.99 with pocket). See the Blue Grunge Darts Shirt, the US Flag Smoke Darts Shirt With Pocket, the Blue Grim Reaper Lightning Dart Shirt and the US Flag Smoke Dart Shirt. New to league play? Read how a dart league works.

FAQ

How do you hold a dart for beginners?

Hold the dart in the center of the barrel with three fingers and light pressure, enough to stay in control without squeezing.

What is the best stance for throwing darts?

There is no single best stance. The forward stance, with your dominant foot at the oche, is a good start. Use the same stance every throw.

Should you throw darts hard or soft?

Throw smoothly with enough speed for the dart to stick. Throwing harder usually adds errors without adding accuracy.

Where should you look when throwing darts?

Look at the exact spot you want to hit, such as the inside of the treble, and keep your eyes there through the release.