1. Standard Dart Rules
In most standard dart games, if a dart falls off the board (i.e., it doesn’t stay securely in the board), it does not count. A dart must remain fully embedded in the board for it to be considered a valid score. If the dart falls out before being officially scored, it is typically treated as an invalid throw.
2. Situations When a Dart Falls Off
-
After the throw: If the dart falls out shortly after the throw, it usually means the dart did not stay securely in the board. For example, if the dart isn’t fully embedded in one of the scoring segments, it’s considered a “non-score.”
-
Flight-related issues: If the dart is thrown and the flight or shaft gets caught in the wires or if the dart simply doesn’t stick in the board (but rather bounces off or falls), it will not count.
-
Before being scored: If the dart falls out before being counted or even before the referee has a chance to verify it, the score is nullified, and the player would need to throw again.
3. In Professional Tournaments
In professional dart tournaments (like PDC or BDO), the same general rule applies: the dart must stay securely in the board. If it falls out, it’s not considered a valid score. The player is usually given another opportunity to throw the dart again.
4. Specific Rules for Different Games
-
501 or 301: In games like 501 or 301, if a dart falls off the board, it will not count, and the player needs to throw again. The total score is calculated based on the darts that stay in the board.
-
Cricket: In Cricket, the rule is the same. If the dart falls off, it doesn’t count, and the player has to throw again.
5. Casual Games vs. Professional Settings
-
Casual Play: In informal or pub settings, the general consensus is that if the dart doesn’t remain in the board, it doesn’t count. Players usually throw another dart in this case.
-
Tournament Play: In more official settings, referees will typically observe whether the dart has landed in the board and stays in place. If it falls out, it’s treated the same way – as a non-score.
6. Why Do Darts Fall Off?
Some common reasons a dart might fall off include:
-
Incorrect throw angle: If the dart is thrown at an angle that causes it to bounce off rather than sticking in the board.
-
Dart conditions: A worn-out dart or damaged flight may also cause the dart not to stick properly.
-
Board quality: A poorly maintained dartboard might result in darts not sticking, especially if the bristles are too loose.
In conclusion, if a dart falls off the board, it does not count for score purposes in nearly all dart games, whether casual or competitive.
