Viper 797 Electronic Dartboard: The Best Review and Guide for Buyers
The Viper 797 Electronic Dartboard is perfect for everyone—whether you play darts every day or just for fun with friends. It’s built to make your games exciting, fair, and easy. With its big size (just like the ones professionals use), 43 different games to try, and a screen that keeps score for you, this dartboard is great for game nights, parties, or practicing to get better. Let’s dive into everything this dartboard offers, so you can see why it’s a top pick!
What Makes the Viper 797 Special?
Here’s a breakdown of its best features:
Big, Professional-Sized Board
The board is 15.5 inches wide, the same size used in real tournaments. This means you’re practicing on the same type of board the pros use!
The board is made of tough, strong plastic (called thermal resin) that doesn’t get damaged easily, even if you play every day.
The holes where the darts stick are curved inward, so the darts stay in place better. Fewer darts fall out, which means fewer frustrating “bounce-outs.”
Extra Protection for Your Walls
The board has a wide rubber ring around the edges. If you miss the board, the ring catches the darts, so your walls don’t get holes or scratches.
The wires that divide the scoring sections are very thin. Thin wires mean darts are less likely to bounce off the board, helping you score more points.
43 Fun Games and 241 Ways to Play
Play classic games like Cricket (where you “close” numbers to win) or 01 (like 301 or 501, where you count down to zero).
Try silly challenges like “Killer” (where you “knock out” other players) or “Shanghai” (where you aim for specific numbers in rounds).
Up to 16 players can take turns, making it perfect for big family gatherings or parties.
Big, Easy-to-See Score Screen
No more writing scores on paper! The board has a bright screen (11 square inches) that shows everyone’s scores, stats, and whose turn it is. You can read it from across the room.
Everything You Need in the Box
The dartboard comes with 6 soft-tip darts (safe, plastic tips), extra tips (in case they break), and screws to hang it on the wall. You don’t need to buy anything else to start playing.
No Batteries Needed
Plug it into a wall outlet with the included cord. No worrying about batteries dying in the middle of a game!
Why You’ll Love the Viper 797
It Lasts Forever
Made from super-strong plastic and nylon, this board won’t crack or wear out, even after years of playing. The scoring sections stay flat, so your darts always land fairly.Good for New Players and Experts
Beginners will love the automatic scoring—no math needed! The board tells you exactly what to aim for in some games, helping you learn. Experts can try harder modes, like hitting tiny “double bullseye” areas for extra points.Saves Space
The board is slim (only 3 inches thick) and doesn’t take up much room. Hang it in a basement, garage, or even a small apartment.Safe for Kids
The darts have soft plastic tips, not sharp metal ones, so they’re safer for families. The board also has that big rubber ring to catch missed throws.
Good Things vs. Not-So-Good Things
Good Things ✅
Strong and Durable: Won’t break even if you play a lot.
Lots of Games: Never get bored—43 games!
Easy-to-Read Screen: Big numbers, no squinting.
Play with Friends: Up to 16 people can join.
Great Price: Cheaper than many other electronic boards but just as good.
Not-So-Good Things ❌
Made of Plastic: Some people prefer traditional cork boards, but plastic works better for electronic scoring.
Needs a Plug: You have to hang it near an outlet. No battery option.
How to Set Up the Viper 797
Hang the Board
Use the included screws and hooks. The center of the bullseye should be 5 feet 8 inches from the floor (standard height for fairness).
Make sure there’s space around it—players stand 7 feet 9 inches away to throw.
Plug It In
Connect the power cord to the board and an outlet. The screen will light up!
Pick a Game
Use the buttons below the screen to choose a game. For example:
Cricket: Aim for numbers 15-20 and the bullseye.
301/501: Subtract your score from 301 or 501 to reach zero.
Around the Clock: Hit numbers 1-20 in order.
Start Playing!
The board beeps when you hit a target and updates scores automatically. Take turns with friends and watch the screen to see who’s winning!
Viper 797 vs. Other Dartboards
Other brands like Arachnid or Winmau make good electronic boards too, but here’s why the Viper 797 is better:
Bigger Rubber Ring: Catches more missed darts, saving your walls.
Easier to Use: Buttons and menus are simpler for kids and new players.
Comes with Darts: Many boards don’t include darts, but this one does!
Should You Buy It? Final Thoughts
Yes! The Viper 797 is awesome for anyone who wants a fun, fair, and long-lasting dartboard. It’s perfect for:
Parties: With 16-player games, everyone can join.
Practice: Use solo modes to improve your aim.
Families: Safe, soft-tip darts and easy rules for kids.
If you’re a serious player who loves the feel of traditional cork boards, this might not be for you. But for most people, the Viper 797’s cool features and low price make it a winner!
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
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Answers to Common Questions
Q: Can I use this in a real dart tournament?
A: Yes! It’s the same size as tournament boards, so it’s great for practice or casual competitions.
Q: Do I need special darts?
A: Yes—only use soft-tip darts (plastic ends). The board doesn’t work with steel-tip darts.
Q: Can I play alone?
A: Absolutely! Games like “Around the Clock” or “Practice Mode” let you play solo.
Q: Is the dartboard noisy?
A: It makes quiet beeps when you score, but it’s not loud. You can still hear your music or friends talking.
Q: What if the darts break?
A: The kit includes extra plastic tips. You can also buy more soft-tip darts cheaply online or at stores.
Final Tip
Clean the board gently with a dry cloth to keep it looking new. Avoid water or sprays, which could damage the electronics. Now grab some friends, plug in the Viper 797, and let the games begin! 🎯