In the strategy of darts, understanding how to score and plan ahead is crucial, and one key concept in this realm is bogey numbers. Bogey numbers are specific scores from which you cannot finish the game on a double with just one dart.
This guide will dive into what are the bogey numbers in darts and highlight their significance in the game’s scoring strategy.
This is a piece of knowledge that’s valuable for both new players and seasoned competitors. Recognizing bogey numbers is vital for strategizing your throws, helping you decide the best course of action for each play, and enhancing your performance overall. The common bogey numbers are 169, 168, 166, 165, 163, 162, 159.
The Basics of Darts Scoring
In darts, scoring is all about bringing your total score down from a set number, usually 501 or 301, to zero by hitting the right spots on the dartboard.
Each section of the dartboard has a number, and when you hit that section, you score those points. The amount you score then gets subtracted from your total. For example, if you start with 501 and hit a 20, your score goes down to 481.
The dartboard has some special areas that can change your score more. The outer ring of the board doubles the points of the segment you hit. The inner ring triples the points. So, hitting the triple 20 (the inner ring on the 20 segment) scores you 60 points.
The bullseye is in the center of the board and has two parts. The outer bull scores 25 points, and the inner bull, or the double bull, scores 50 points.
One of the most important parts of scoring in darts is the finish, also called ‘checking out’. To win, you have to get your score exactly zero, and your last dart has to land in either a double segment or the bullseye. This means you need to plan your throws carefully, especially when you’re getting close to zero, so you can finish the game on a double or the bullseye. Understanding how to score and finish well is key to being good at darts.
What Are the Bogey Numbers in Darts
Bogey numbers in darts are those tricky scores that don’t allow you to finish the game on your next turn, no matter how well you throw. These numbers are essential to know because they directly influence your game strategy.
Bogey numbers typically include any odd number above 1 that can’t be reduced to zero with three darts, each ending on a double. The most common bogey numbers you’ll encounter are 169, 168, 166, 165, 163, 162, and 159.
Take 169 as an example. If you’re sitting on 169 and manage to score three triple 20s (which is the highest score possible with three darts), you’d end up with 9 points left. Since you can’t finish on an odd number and especially not on 9 without a double, 169 becomes a bogey number.
Knowing about bogey numbers can significantly change how you play. If your score is nearing these numbers, you’ll need to strategize your throws to avoid them, aiming instead for a score from which you can check out.
For instance, if your score is at 170, you’re not on a bogey number and could potentially finish the game on your next turn with two triple 20s and a bullseye. Understanding and planning around bogey numbers is a critical aspect of developing a winning darts strategy.
The Strategic Importance of Bogey Numbers in Darts
Understanding bogey numbers in darts is crucial for a good game strategy. These are scores you want to avoid because you can’t finish the game from them on your next turn. If you land on a bogey number, you give your opponent a chance to catch up or win.
Being aware of bogey numbers helps players think ahead about their throws. They can plan how to either get to a score that they can finish from or leave their opponent stuck on a bogey number.
Here’s a simple table showing some common bogey numbers and the strategies you might use:
Bogey Number | Strategy |
169 | Aim for lower scores to set up a finish |
168 | Avoid by scoring high but not too high |
166 | Go for a combination that avoids 166 |
165 | Score just enough to get below 165 |
163 | Plan throws to bypass 163 |
162 | Aim for scores that skip over 162 |
159 | Try to get just under 159 |
Knowing these numbers and planning around them can make a big difference, especially in professional darts. It’s all about thinking a few throws ahead and being smart with your scoring. This way, you either set yourself up for a win or make it harder for your opponent to beat you.
Tips and Tricks to Navigate Bogey Numbers
Dealing with bogey numbers in darts requires strategic thinking and quick calculations. Here are some extended tips to help you navigate around these tricky numbers:
- Plan Ahead: Always think a few throws ahead. This helps you avoid landing on a bogey number by planning your scoring route.
- Score Awareness: Keep a close eye on your score. Know what numbers you need to hit to set up a potential checkout, and what scores will leave you on a bogey.
- Practice Combinations: Get to know scoring combinations that help you steer clear of bogey numbers. The more you practice, the better you’ll get at finding these paths naturally during a game.
- Use Doubles and Triples Wisely: These can be key in adjusting your score down from a potential bogey number. Knowing when to aim for these can change the course of your game.
- Mental Agility: Be flexible and ready to change your plan. If your score is heading towards a bogey, quickly figure out a new combination of throws to avoid it.
By mastering these tips, you can enhance your ability to steer clear of bogey numbers, making your gameplay more effective and strategic. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, these tactics are essential for improving your darts game.
FAQ’s
Can You Get 179 in Darts?
While you can score 179, it’s a bogey number, meaning you can’t finish the game from this score with your next three darts. It’s important to strategize to avoid landing on this number as it gives your opponent an advantage.
Can You Check Out 162 in Darts?
No, 162 is another bogey number. This score can’t be finished in a standard game of darts with three darts. Players try to avoid this score to keep the possibility of finishing the game open.
How Do You Get 161 in Darts?
To score 161, a common way is to hit a triple 20 (60 points), followed by a triple 17 (51 points), and then finish with a bullseye (50 points). This combination is a classic checkout in professional darts.
What Does Bogey 6 Mean?
In some dart games, ‘Bogey 6’ refers to going six rounds without scoring. This term is used more in casual play and varies in its meaning across different dart games.
What is 180 in Darts Called?
Scoring 180, the highest score possible from three darts (hitting triple 20 three times), is called a ‘maximum.’ This is a coveted achievement in darts and often gets a big reaction from the crowd in professional matches.
Why Avoid Bogey Numbers?
Avoiding bogey numbers is key to winning in darts. Landing on these numbers means you can’t finish the game in your next turn, giving your opponent a chance to catch up or win.
Conclusion
Bogey numbers in darts are important to know for good strategy. They make you plan your throws and think about your scores so you can win. Learning about these numbers helps you play smarter, not just better.
Knowing what scores to avoid can make a big difference, whether you’re playing just for fun or in serious games. Being aware of bogey numbers makes the game more enjoyable and can help you play better and smarter. This article has explored what are the bogey numbers in darts.