Are your darts bouncing out of the board every time you throw? It’s frustrating when you aim carefully, only to watch your dart hit the wire or slip right off.
But don’t worry—this problem is more common than you think, and there are simple, effective ways to stop it. Whether you’re a casual player or aiming to improve your game, understanding why darts bounce out and how to fix it can make a huge difference.
You’ll discover easy tips and techniques that will help your darts stick better, giving you more consistent scores and a more enjoyable playing experience. Keep reading to learn how to finally stop those annoying bounce outs for good!
Causes Of Dart Bounce Outs
Throwing technique plays a big role in dart bounce outs. A dart that hits the board at an angle or with a weak throw may not stick well. Aim to throw the dart straight and with enough force. This helps the dart enter the board firmly and stay put.
Dart point condition affects how well the dart sticks. Dull or bent points can cause darts to bounce out. Check your points regularly and sharpen or replace them if needed. Sharp points grip the board better and reduce bounce outs.
Board wiring and impact also matter. Thick or raised wires can deflect darts, causing bounce outs. Choose boards with thin, flat wiring to reduce this problem. Try to hit areas with less wiring to improve sticking.
Flight and shaft problems can cause instability. Loose or damaged flights and shafts make darts wobble in the air. Ensure flights are securely attached and shafts are straight. This helps the dart fly true and stick better.

Improving Throwing Technique
Aim for straight entry to reduce bounce outs. Throw the dart so it hits the board point-first. This helps the dart stick firmly.
Use a compact release and follow-through. Keep your hand steady and release the dart smoothly. This creates a direct path to the board.
Avoid nose-up or lob throws. Throwing the dart with the tip pointing up or tossing it softly causes bounce outs. A flat, straight throw works best.
Maintaining Dart Points
Scuffing dart points creates small edges that help the dart grip the board better. Use a fine file or sandpaper to gently roughen the tips. This simple step can reduce bounce outs by improving the friction between the dart and the board surface.
Replacing worn or smooth tips is essential for consistent performance. Dull or shiny tips slide off the board easily. Check your tips often and swap them out when they lose their sharpness. New tips stick better and help your darts stay in place.
Optimizing Dart Flights And Shafts
Secure flight attachment helps reduce dart bounce outs. Flights should fit tightly into the shaft. Loose flights often cause darts to fall or bounce out.
Using larger flights increases the surface area. This helps the dart stick better to the board. Larger flights create more drag, slowing the dart on impact.
Longer shafts also improve dart stability. They give flights more space to open fully. This makes the dart fly straighter and land more firmly.
| Flight Size | Effect |
|---|---|
| Small | Less drag, higher bounce out risk |
| Standard | Balanced drag and flight stability |
| Large | More drag, less bounce outs |
Board Setup And Accessories
Choosing a high-quality dartboard reduces bounce outs significantly. Boards made from dense sisal fibers hold darts better and last longer. Cheaper boards may cause darts to bounce more often due to loose sisal.
Adding dartboard surrounds protects walls and catches stray darts. They also help reduce the board’s vibration. Surrounds made of soft materials, like foam, are best for absorbing impact.
Minimizing board vibration is key to stopping darts from bouncing out. Mount the board on a solid, flat surface using secure wall brackets. Avoid placing the board on hollow or thin walls that shake easily. Using a backing board behind the dartboard can also help reduce vibration and improve dart sticking.

Additional Tips For Consistency
Check your darts often for loose parts or damage. Worn flights or bent shafts cause bounce outs. Replace any broken pieces quickly. Keep points sharp and clean for better grip on the board.
Try changing the weight of your darts to find what feels best. Heavier darts may stick better. Light darts can bounce more if thrown too hard. Also, adjust the balance by moving the barrel forward or backward on the shaft. This helps the dart fly straight and land point-first.

Frequently Asked Questions
How To Stop Darts From Bouncing Out?
Stop darts from bouncing out by throwing straight with a compact release. Use sharp, textured points and larger flights or longer stems for better grip. Ensure flights fit tightly on shafts and avoid hitting wires by aiming carefully. Regularly maintain dart tips with light sanding.
Why Do I Keep Getting Bounce Outs?
Bounce outs happen when darts hit the board at an angle or the points are too smooth. Throw straight, point-first. Keep dart tips sharp and flights secure for better grip. Use bigger flights or longer stems to reduce deflections and bounce outs.
How To Stop Darts Banging?
Stop darts banging by adding rubber dampeners or mini doorstops to reduce vibration and noise. Ensure firm dart placement and avoid loose flights.
Why Do My Darts Flights Keep Falling Out?
Dart flights fall out mainly due to loose or worn shafts and improper seating. Using quality shafts and securing flights tightly prevents this.
Conclusion
Stopping darts from bouncing out takes practice and good technique. Aim to throw your darts straight and with a firm grip. Keep your flights and shafts in good condition to avoid loose parts. Adjust your throwing angle to avoid hitting the wires on the board.
Small changes in your throw can make a big difference. With patience and these simple tips, you will see fewer bounce outs. Enjoy playing with more confidence and better scores. Keep practicing and have fun improving your dart game!