How to Play 301 Darts: Rules & Complete 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
What is the difference between 301 and 501 darts?+
The only difference is the starting score. 301 starts at 301 points while 501 starts at 501 points. Both games use the same double-out rule to finish. 301 is faster and more suited for casual play or when time is limited.
How long does a game of 301 take?+
A game of 301 typically takes 5-10 minutes for experienced players. Beginners may take 10-15 minutes. This is faster than 501, which usually takes 10-20 minutes.
Do you have to use all 3 darts on your last turn in 301?+
No. You can finish on your first, second, or third dart. As soon as you hit the double that brings your score to exactly zero, the game is over — you don't need to throw your remaining darts.
What is the fastest way to finish 301 in darts?+
The minimum is 6 darts: for example, T20 (180) in the first round leaves 121, then T20, T11, D4 to finish. In practice, aiming for T20 each throw and planning a checkout route from around 120 or below is the fastest strategy.
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