301 Darts Rules: Quick Games Guide
301 is the faster sibling of 501 darts. With the same rules but a lower starting score, games finish quicker - perfect for casual play, pub games, or when time is limited.
How to Play 301
- Each player starts with 301 points
- Take turns throwing 3 darts
- Subtract your score from your remaining total after each turn
- First player to reach exactly 0 wins
- Double Out: You must finish on a double (or bullseye)
Same Rules as 501
301 uses identical rules to 501 - only the starting score differs. All busting rules, double-out requirements, and scoring work exactly the same way.
301 vs 501: Key Differences
301 Darts
- +Faster games (5-10 minutes)
- +Great for casual play
- +Less room for comeback
- -Every throw matters more
501 Darts
- +Professional tournament format
- +More time to find your rhythm
- +Allows for comebacks
- -Longer games (10-20 minutes)
Strategy Tips for 301
With fewer points to work with, every throw in 301 carries more weight. Here's how to optimize your game:
Plan Your Checkout Early
- At 301, you're never far from a checkout opportunity
- After just one or two good turns, you could be finishing
- Know your favorite doubles and practice leaving them
Maximize Early Throws
- Triple 20 (60) is still your best target for scoring
- Two 180s would leave you at 141 - a 3-dart checkout
- Don't get too fancy early - consistent scoring wins
Leave Even Numbers
- Always try to leave an even number for checkout
- Popular finish targets: 40 (D20), 32 (D16), 36 (D18)
- If you have 61 remaining, consider hitting 21 to leave 40 (D20)
Quick Checkouts from 301
- 301 = 170 + 131: T20 T20 T17 + T20 T17 D10
- 301 = 180 + 121: T20 T20 T20 + T20 11 Bull
- 5-dart finish: T20 T20 T20 + T20 T17 D16 = 180 + 121
Common 301 Checkouts
In 301, you'll often reach checkout range quickly. Here are common finishes you'll encounter:
2-Dart Finishes
- 100:T20 D20
- 80:T20 D10
- 61:T15 D8
- 50:Bull
Single-Dart Finishes
- 40:D20
- 36:D18
- 32:D16
- 16:D8
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 301 easier than 501?
Not necessarily. While games are shorter, each throw has more impact. In 501, you have more time to recover from a bad turn. In 301, one poor round can cost you the game.
Do I need to double-in for 301?
Standard 301 does not require a double to start. You can begin scoring with any dart. Some variations (called "double-in, double-out") require hitting a double before you can begin subtracting from 301.
When should I play 301 vs 501?
Play 301 when you want quick games, are short on time, or are playing casually. Choose 501 for more competitive play or when you want games with more scoring turns.
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