How Far Do You Throw Darts? A Complete Guide to Dart Throwing Distance

Axeology SC
Jan 23
4 min read

Darts is a game of precision, focus, and consistency.

Whether you are playing casually at home, practicing at a sports bar, or competing in a professional tournament, one question always comes up: how far do you throw darts?

Throwing darts from the correct distance is essential for fair gameplay, improved accuracy, and developing proper technique.

Many beginners unknowingly throw from the wrong distance, which affects scoring and slows improvement.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn the official dart throwing distance, how to measure it correctly, variations for different dartboards, beginner adjustments, and expert tips to perfect your setup.

What Is the Official Dart Throwing Distance?

The official dart throwing distance is:

7 feet 9¼ inches (2.37 meters)

This distance is measured from the front face of the dartboard to the throw line, commonly called the oche.

This standard distance is recognized by:

Professional dart organizations
League competitions
Pub and bar dart games
International tournaments

Throwing from this distance ensures consistency and fairness across all levels of play.

Why Is the Dart Throwing Distance Exactly 7 Feet 9¼ Inches?

The standard distance was established to balance difficulty and accuracy.

Too close, and the game becomes easy. Too far, and it becomes frustrating.

This distance:

Creates a consistent throwing arc
Challenges both beginners and professionals
Encourages proper stance and follow-through
Matches international dart competition standards

Over time, players develop muscle memory based on this exact distance.

How to Measure Dart Throwing Distance Correctly

Incorrect measurement is one of the most common mistakes players make. Follow these steps to get it right:

Measure 7 feet 9¼ inches from the front surface of the dartboard, not the wall.
Use a measuring tape and extend it straight out along the floor.
Mark the distance clearly using tape, chalk, or a raised oche.
This mark is your official throwing line.

Important Rule: At least one foot must remain behind the throw line when releasing the dart.

Correct Dartboard Height for Accurate Play

Distance alone won’t help if your dartboard height is wrong.

Official Dartboard Height:

5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) from the floor to the center of the bullseye

This height works together with the throwing distance to create the correct throwing angle used in competitive play.

Tip for Uneven Floors

If your floor isn’t perfectly level, measure from the lowest point to maintain accuracy.

Dart Throwing Distance for Different Dart Types

Not all dartboards use the same distance. Here’s a quick comparison:

Dart Type	Official Throwing Distance
Steel-Tip Darts	7 ft 9¼ in (2.37 m)
Soft-Tip Darts	8 ft (2.44 m)

Steel-Tip Darts

Used in traditional dartboards and most professional leagues.

Soft-Tip Darts

Used with electronic dartboards and often placed slightly farther back due to board sensitivity.

How Far Should Beginners Throw Darts?

Beginners often struggle with accuracy at the official distance. That’s completely normal.

Recommended Beginner Distances:

6–7 feet for children
7 feet for adult beginners
Gradually increase to 7 ft 9¼ in as skills improve

Starting closer helps build confidence, consistency, and proper throwing mechanics.

Does Player Height Affect Dart Throwing Distance?

The throwing distance never changes based on height. However, height can influence stance and release angle.

Taller Players:

May throw at a slightly downward angle
Should focus on smooth follow-through

Shorter Players:

May throw with a higher arc
Benefit from consistent wrist action

Regardless of height, everyone throws from the same line.

Proper Stance at the Dart Throwing Line

Correct stance improves balance and accuracy.

Basic Dart Throwing Stance:

Dominant foot slightly forward
Back foot planted for stability
Body turned slightly sideways
Arm relaxed and aligned with the target

Maintaining a consistent stance is just as important as the throwing distance itself.

Common Mistakes When Setting Dart Throw Distance

Avoid these frequent errors:

❌ Measuring from the wall instead of the board

❌ Ignoring dartboard height

❌ Standing on or over the oche

❌ Using soft-tip distance for steel-tip darts

❌ Constantly changing throwing position

Correct setup leads to faster improvement and better results.

Indoor vs Outdoor Dart Distance Setup

Indoor Setup

Ideal for consistent conditions
Stable lighting and flooring
Recommended for serious practice

Outdoor Setup

Wind can affect dart trajectory
Use protective backboards
Ensure clear measurement and safety space

The distance remains the same in both environments.

How to Practice Effectively from the Correct Distance

Practicing from the proper distance helps develop competitive skills.

Practice Tips:

Start every session from the official distance
Focus on grouping darts, not just scoring
Practice checkout numbers
Maintain consistent release timing

Quality practice beats quantity every time.

Safety Tips When Throwing Darts

Keep spectators behind the thrower
Never retrieve darts while someone is throwing
Use proper dartboard backing
Inspect darts for damaged tips

Safety should always come first.

Final Answer: How Far Do You Throw Darts?

To summarize:

Official dart throwing distance: 7 feet 9¼ inches
Measurement: From dartboard face to throw line
Dartboard height: 5 feet 8 inches to bullseye
Soft-tip dart distance: 8 feet
Beginners: Can start closer and progress

Using the correct dart throwing distance improves accuracy, fairness, and overall enjoyment of the game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How far do professional dart players throw?

Professional players throw from 7 feet 9¼ inches, the same as amateur and league players.

Can I throw darts from any distance?

Casually, yes—but competitive and league play requires the official distance.

Is dart throwing distance the same worldwide?

Yes, the standard distance is internationally recognized.