What are the Measurements of a Dart Board: Ultimate Guide

Introduction

Understanding the exact measurements of a dartboard is crucial for both casual play and competitive tournaments. This guide covers everything from board dimensions to setup rules, ensuring your game adheres to official standards.

Standard Dartboard Measurements

The classic London Clock or Bristle dartboard follows strict specifications:

  1. Diameter: 18 inches (45.7 cm).

  2. Bullseye:

    • Inner Bull (Double Bull): 12.7 mm (0.5 inches).

    • Outer Bull (Single Bull): 31.8 mm (1.25 inches).

  3. Scoring Rings:

    • Treble Ring (Triple): 8 mm wide, positioned 107 mm (4.21 inches) from the bullseye.

    • Double Ring: 8 mm wide, located 170 mm (6.69 inches) from the center.

  4. Number Ring: Numbers (1–20) are 25.4 mm (1 inch) tall and spaced evenly.

  5. Thickness: Modern boards use slim “blade” dividers (1.5 mm) to reduce bounce-outs.

Regulation Dartboard Setup

Proper installation ensures fair play:

  1. Height:

    • Bullseye Center: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) from the floor.

    • Wheelchair Players: 4 feet 6 inches (137 cm).

  2. Throwing Distance (Oche):

    • Steel-Tip Darts: 7 feet 9.25 inches (237 cm) from the board face.

    • Soft-Tip Darts: 8 feet (244 cm).

  3. Diagonal Check: Confirm the distance from the bullseye to the oche is 9 feet 7.5 inches (293 cm) for steel-tip.

Materials & Construction

  • Sisal Fibers: Dense, self-healing material used in professional boards.

  • Wire vs. Blade Dividers: Thin blade dividers minimize bounce-outs.

  • Electronic Boards: Use plastic segments with sensors; adhere to soft-tip measurements.

Regulation vs. Non-Regulation Boards

  • Tournament-Grade: Must meet all above specifications (e.g., Winmau Blade 6, Unicorn Eclipse Pro).

  • Casual/Decorative Boards: Smaller sizes (e.g., 15-inch) or unconventional designs for non-competitive use.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

  1. Mounting: Secure the board so the 20 segment faces directly upward.

  2. Height: Measure 5’8” from the floor to the bullseye.

  3. Throwing Line: Mark the oche at 7’9.25” (steel-tip) or 8’ (soft-tip).

  4. Lighting: Ensure even illumination to avoid shadows.

  5. Protection: Use a surround or mat to protect walls and floors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Incorrect height or throwing distance.

  • Crooked mounting (always use a spirit level).

  • Ignoring the diagonal check (9’7.5” for steel-tip).

FAQs

Q: How high is a dartboard?
A: 5’8” (173 cm) from floor to bullseye center.

Q: What’s the bullseye size?
A: Inner bull = 12.7 mm, outer bull = 31.8 mm.

Q: Are electronic dartboards smaller?
A: No, they follow soft-tip standards (18-inch diameter, 8-foot oche).

Q: Can kids use smaller boards?
A: Yes, 15-inch boards are available for casual play.

Measurement Checklist

  • Diameter: 18 inches.

  • Bullseye: 12.7 mm (inner), 31.8 mm (outer).

  • Height: 5’8”.

  • Oche: 7’9.25” (steel) / 8’ (soft).

  • Diagonal: 9’7.5” (steel).

Conclusion

Accurate dartboard measurements are essential for a fair and enjoyable game. Whether practicing at home or competing professionally, adhering to these guidelines ensures precision and consistency. Share this guide with fellow players to elevate everyone’s game!

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