If you have no hobby just yet, you might consider trying out darts.
This game is popular in most parts of the world.
You can tag along with your standard dartboard to any place provided you will have space to mount it and play without distractions.
For you to enjoy the game, there are a couple of things that you need to know.
Read through this write-up, so you understand the required measurements and learn how to set up the dartboard.
Navigation Table
Official Dartboard Hanging Measurements
The last thing you would wish is to realize you have been using the wrong measurements for your dart games.
Therefore, you need to know the appropriate hanging measurements.
To start with, the standard dartboard has an 18-inch diameter.
It has 20 numbered, equal pie-shaped sections and the bull’s-eye. This dartboard should be hanged 5 feet 8 inches from the ground.
If you are using steel tip darts, the distance between the board and the throwing line should be 7 feet 9 1/4 inches.
On the other hand, this distance should be 8 feet for soft tip darts. These measurements are approved by all the dartboard.
Therefore, you need to keep them as they are so you can play darts correctly.
What Height Should the Dartboard Be?
The dartboard is usually mounted on a wall. It can also work on a vertical surface as long as it flat.
The center of the board should be 5 feet 8 inches from the floor. This distance should be observed because it helps in enhancing your skills even for professional competitions.
Before mounting the dartboard at the given height, you should protect the wall because darts can cause damages.
Ensure that you don’t have any breakable items close to where you mount the dartboard. Dart mats are a great way to prevent damages on the darts.
Finally, you can place your scoreboard on either side of the dartboard.
This way, you can easily track the scores without wasting much time.
How Far Should the Throwing Line Be?
You don’t throw the darts from any position while playing this game.
There is a specific distance that you should consider depending on the type of darts you are using.
If you have steel tip darts, the throwing line should be 7 feet 9.25 inches from the dartboard.
For the soft tip darts, the distance is bigger, lying at 8 feet.
Dartboard Setup: how to mount the dartboard on the wall
Once you develop a passion for playing darts, you need to learn how to install the board.
This will be good for you, especially if you will buy your own set.
However, some people will tell you the process is super comfortable while others think otherwise.
How about you find out by yourself? Below is a step by step guide on how to mount the dartboard. I have explained every detail that will minimize any difficulties, even for beginners.
- Choose the location
This is the most essential step. Get an open space that measures at least 5 feet wide and 11 feet long.
This space should be free from any obstacles that may make you miss your shots. If you will be playing with other people, ensure there, I enough space to accommodate them.
Additionally, there should be space for spectators. Ensure that there is space for the scoreboard, so everyone will see when the game is going on.
- Prepare the darts floor
Customizing the darts floor is important because it prevents damages on the walls as well as the darts.
However, the material you use depends on your budget. Some materials are quite expensive, while others fit a tight budget.
To ease the struggle, use a reliable dart mat. The mat is made from rubber which prevents damages on the wall and keeps the darts in good shape.
This way, you will enjoy the game longer without worrying about replacing the materials.
- Evaluate your floor
How levelled your floor? I know this sounds rather obvious, but some floors are slanted.
If you notice the floor is not levelled, you might seek another location or customize the floor to fit in in the regulations. Otherwise, you will play the wrong way, which doesn’t help in any way.
- Choose where you will mount the dartboard
Placing the dartboard strategically is essential. At first, it ensures the spectators and players are safe.
Darts are sharp and can cause injuries if t lands on someone. The board should also be away from entrances, exits and breakable items.
So always be keen while selecting the spot on the wall.
- Take the bullseye measurement
After measuring the bullseye, make a mark on the wall. According to the official rules, the bullseye should be 5 feet 8 inches from the floor.
This is basically the height of hanging the dartboard.
You will notice that some boards are hung from the middle and others from the top. This depends on the quality and brand.
The best boards are those that you hung from the centre because they are quality and easy to mount.
- It is time to mount the backing board disc
Check the countersink and point it towards you. Put the backing board disc at the back centre of your dartboard.
Use a screw at the centre hole to hold the board in place. Most dartboards in the market have 3 holes to ensure the dartboard is firmly held on the wall.
- You are almost there
You are now ready to mount the wall bracket. While installing it, the bullseye should be 5 feet 8 inches from the ground.
Ensure the opening of the wall bracket is to the top of U shaped recess facing towards you.
Once you are sure that the centre mark lines are at par with the centre hole of the bracket, screw the wall bracket.
- Check the stability of the board
The screw should be higher than the wall bracket for exceptional stability.
While placing the dartboard into the wall bracket, keep the 20-scoring area vertical. Attach the disc appropriately.
This will ensure that your dartboard is well mounted to prevent falling.
- It’s time to create the throwline
How easy has this been? If you faced any challenges with the above steps, you should mount a dashboard as many times as possible so you can get used to it.
So, once you have the dartboard on the wall, you need to create the throw line. This is the point where you will be throwing your darts from.
Just not to forget, the throwline is also known as oche, hockey or toe-line. This line should be 3 feet wide so that it’s easy to locate.
As mentioned earlier, the throwline should be 7 feet 9.25 inches from the dartboard for standard steel-tipped to set up. If you use soft-tipped darts, measure a distance of 8 feet.
If you are on a tight budget, you don’t have to purchase a throwline sticker. You can customize your own, which makes the set up more appealing.
Use tape or piece of wood. You can colour them to your preferred colour. The throwline should be at the centre and perpendicular to the board’s face.
- Can we play already?
Finally, the setting up process is done. You have the dartboard in perfect position; the throwline is clear and right place.
What else is remaining? Nothing but you to enjoy the game.
If you are a beginner, don’t feel intimidated when you miss the bullseye or anywhere close it.
Keep practicing, and eventually, you will get where you want.
One thing I can assure you is you will enjoy every second of this game, so don’t hesitate to get started.
Conclusion
Setting up a dartboard might seem complicated, but if you follow the above guideline, you will be surprised at how chilled it gets.
Additionally, you are familiar with the appropriate measurements for an official dart set up. Therefore, you will be sure that you are using the ideal set up.
Whether you are playing for fun or as a profession, ensure you adhere to these measurements.
Practicing or playing with the wrong set up will not help improve your skills. Once you have the set up ready, play the game like it’s your last. Have fun and let loose. After all, game time is always a fun time.
