Bar Darts: A Comprehensive Guide to the Classic Pub Game

Introduction

Bar darts, also known as pub darts, is a popular and engaging game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a variation of the traditional game of darts, but is typically played in a bar or pub setting using a smaller dartboard and lighter darts.

History of Bar Darts

The origins of bar darts are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in England in the early 20th century. Publicans would often hang dartboards in their establishments as a form of entertainment for patrons. Over time, the game evolved into the more standardized version that we know today.

Equipment

• Dartboard: The dartboard used in bar darts is smaller than a traditional dartboard, measuring approximately 15 inches in diameter. It is usually made of cork or sisal.
• Darts: Bar darts are shorter and lighter than traditional darts, typically weighing between 16 and 18 grams. They have a plastic or metal tip and a rubber or metal shaft.

Gameplay

Bar darts is a relatively simple game to learn. The objective is to score points by throwing the darts at the dartboard. The board is divided into 20 numbered segments, each with a corresponding point value. The center of the board, known as the "bullseye," is worth 50 points.

Scoring

The scoring in bar darts is similar to traditional darts. Points are awarded based on where the dart lands on the board. The highest score possible is 180 (triple 20, triple 20, and bullseye).

Variations

There are many variations of bar darts, including:

• Cricket: A game where players try to close out numbers on the board before their opponents.
• 301: A game where players attempt to reduce their score to zero by hitting various point values on the board.
• Baseball: A game where players simulate a baseball game by hitting designated areas on the board.

Benefits of Bar Darts

• Social interaction: Bar darts is a great way to socialize with friends and family.
• Eye-hand coordination: Playing darts requires good eye-hand coordination and can help improve this skill over time.
• Stress relief: Throwing darts can be a great way to relieve stress and have fun.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Throwing too hard: It is important to control the force with which you throw the darts. Throwing too hard can cause them to bounce off the board or land in the wrong spot.
• Aiming incorrectly: Make sure to aim carefully and take into account the distance from the board and the angle at which you are throwing.
• Neglecting practice: Like any sport or game, regular practice can help you improve your skills and consistency in bar darts.

Call to Action

If you are looking for a fun and engaging game to play at your next bar outing, give bar darts a try. It is a great way to socialize, improve your skills, and have a great time.

Additional Information

• According to the British Darts Organization (BDO), there are an estimated 1.7 million bar dart players in the United Kingdom.
• The World Darts Federation (WDF) hosts an annual bar darts championship, which attracts players from all over the world.
• Some of the most famous bar dart players include Phil Taylor, Eric Bristow, and Bobby George.

Interesting Stories

Story 1:

A group of friends were playing bar darts when one of them accidentally threw a dart into the ceiling. The dart stuck in the ceiling and remained there for several weeks before someone finally retrieved it.

What We Learn: Always be aware of your surroundings when throwing darts!

Story 2:

A man was playing bar darts when he hit a triple 20 with his first dart. He was so excited that he threw his second dart without aiming and somehow hit another triple 20. The crowd went wild, and the man went on to win the game.

What We Learn: Sometimes, luck can play a role in bar darts.

Story 3:

A group of women were playing bar darts when one of them got into an argument with another player. The argument escalated, and the two women began throwing darts at each other. The bar staff quickly intervened and broke up the fight, but the women had a lot of explaining to do to the police officer who arrived on the scene.

What We Learn: Bar darts is a game, and it should be played in a fun and respectful manner.

Tables

Table 1: Scoring in Bar Darts

Table 2: Bar Darts Variations

Table 3: Famous Bar Dart Players