“51 by 5s” is one of the smartest darts games ever created. It improves accuracy, finishing skills, and score calculation — all while keeping the game exciting. If you want to sharpen your doubles, practice precise scoring, and dominate under pressure, this game is a must-try.
This guide breaks down every rule, strategy, common mistake, and winning technique so you can master 51 by 5s like a pro.
What Is 51 By 5s Darts?
51 by 5s is a practice-focused darts game where players:
✔ Start at 51 points
✔ Only score on multiples of 5
✔ Must finish exactly on zero
✔ Final dart must land in a double
Every throw teaches you how to:
• Score wisely
• Plan checkouts
• Hit doubles while under pressure
It’s a favorite practice game among players learning how to win real-match situations.
➡ Want more fun games to practice? Check out Best dart Games for Beginners.
Basic Rules of 51 By 5s
| Rule | Description |
|---|---|
| Starting Score | 51 points |
| Scoring Allowed | Only hits worth multiples of 5 |
| Valid Targets | 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 50 |
| Darts Per Turn | 3 darts |
| Finish Requirement | Must end on double |
| Bust Rule | If you go below zero or don’t finish on a double, score resets to start of turn |
Bust Example
You have 10 left and hit:
• Single 5 → 5 left
• Double 5 attempt → Miss (scores 0)
➡ Your score returns to 10
Scoring: How The Numbers Work
| Segment | Single | Double | Triple | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 10 | 15 | Safe target |
| 10 | 10 | 20 | 30 | Good setup shot |
| 15 | 15 | 30 | 45 | Flexible scoring |
| 20 | 20 | 40 | 60 | Best scoring target |
| Outer Bull | 25 | – | – | Risky but useful |
| Inner Bull | 50 | – | – | Big scoring swing |
Example Turn:
• T20 = 60
• S15 = 15
• D5 = 10
Total = 85 → subtract from current score
Game Setup
You only need:
✔ Standard dartboard
✔ 2+ players (or solo practice)
✔ 3 darts per player
If you need gear, check our guides on Best Professional Dart Boards or Best Darts for Beginners.
Winning Strategy Guide
1️⃣ Aim for Big Multiples — But Be Smart
Best scoring targets:
| Target | Reward | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| Triple 20 | 60 | High |
| Inner Bull | 50 | Medium |
| Double 20 | 40 | Medium |
Pro Tip: Don’t chase the 60 every turn — missing = 0 points.
2️⃣ Plan Your Checkout Every Turn
Always leave a clean finish:
Best finishing numbers:
• 40 (Double 20)
• 20 (Double 10)
• 10 (Double 5)
Bad leftovers:
• 6 or 11 → No valid finish
⛔ Example Mistake
51 − 45 = 6 left ❌ (Cannot finish)
✔ Correct Logic
51 − 40 = 11 ❌
51 − 30 = 21 ❌
51 − 20 = 31 ❌
Aim combinations that land you on 40, 30, 20, or 10
3️⃣ Avoid the Bust Trap
Never shoot blindly at the bull or triples when a double finish is close.
Golden Rule
If finishing possible → protect the score
If not → maximize safe scoring
4️⃣ Practice Your Finishing Doubles
These three decide the game:
🎯 Double 5 (10)
🎯 Double 10 (20)
🎯 Double 20 (40)
Try “10-minute doubles drill” daily — guaranteed improvement.
5️⃣ Learn Safe Scoring Routes
When pressure builds, use predictable targets:
| Situation | Best Shot |
|---|---|
| Need steady score | Single 20 → 20 each hit |
| Close to finish | Single 10 → setup double |
| Reset troubled score | Single 5 → safe |
Advanced Competitive Tips
Setup Shot Thinking
Plan two turns ahead — treat every shot like a tournament finish.
Mental Math Speed
Quick calculations = less stress = better accuracy.
Opponent Pressure
Leave them awkward scores like 21 or 26 whenever possible.
If you want more accuracy tricks → read How to aim with darts.
Practice Drills to Improve Fast
| Drill | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Countdown from 51 | Real match checkout practice |
| Doubles only session | Finishing confidence |
| Timed round (60 seconds) | Pressure training |
| Bullseye accuracy | High-risk/high-reward control |
Also useful with Best dart board wall protector if you’re practicing at home.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It Hurts |
|---|---|
| Going for T20 every turn | Too many zero-score misses |
| Not planning checkouts | Leaves non-finish numbers |
| Ignoring doubles practice | You reach zero but bust |
| Random shot selection | Cannot manage score pressure |
Consistency beats aggression in this game.
FAQs
Can I finish on bullseye?
No — final dart must be a double, even if bull reduces your score.
What happens if I overshoot 0?
Bust → score resets to start of turn.
Which double should I practice most?
Double 20 — it wins more games than any other double.
Why 51 By 5s Makes You Better
It improves the three core skills of darts:
| Skill | How This Game Strengthens It |
|---|---|
| Accuracy | Small score window = better aim |
| Strategy | Always planning the next number |
| Finishing | Constant double training |
Perfect for building real match checkout confidence.
Final Thoughts
51 by 5s isn’t just a game — it’s a training system to turn average throwers into strong finishers. Use the strategies above:
✔ Score safely
✔ Protect your finish
✔ Master your doubles
✔ Stay calm under pressure
Soon, you’ll be hitting winning doubles like a pro 🏆🎯
Grab your darts… multiples of 5 are waiting!