Have you ever been on the edge of winning a game of darts, only to suddenly lose your chance because of a “bust”? If you’re wondering what exactly happens when you bust in darts and how it affects your game, you’re in the right place.
Understanding busts can make a big difference in your strategy and confidence. Keep reading, and you’ll discover what busting means, why it happens, and how to avoid it—so you can stay ahead and hit those winning shots every time.
What Bust Means
Bust in darts means your score goes below zero or does not end on a double. Your turn ends right away and your score returns to what it was before your throw. No points are counted from that turn.
Common scenarios include scoring too many points or missing the double needed to finish the game. For example, if you need 20 points and score 25, you bust. You also bust if you reach zero but the last dart is not a double.
| Scenario | Result |
|---|---|
| Score goes below zero | Turn ends, score resets to previous |
| Score hits zero but last dart not double | Turn ends, score resets to previous |
| Score exactly matches with last dart as double | Player wins or finishes turn normally |
Impact On Score
Busting in darts means your score goes below zero or you don’t finish on a double. When this happens, your score resets to what it was before your turn started. None of the points scored during the busted turn count.
Your turn ends immediately after a bust. The next player then takes their turn with your old score. This rule keeps the game fair and stops quick wins by chance.
| Situation | Result |
|---|---|
| Score goes below zero | Score resets to previous value, turn ends |
| Score hits zero but last dart is not a double | Score resets, turn ends |
| Score hits zero with last dart a double | Player wins |
Rules For Finishing
To finish a game of darts, players must hit a double that brings their score exactly to zero. Missing this doubling out requirement means the turn ends without scoring.
A bust happens if the score goes below zero or reaches zero without a double. In this case, the player’s score resets to what it was at the turn’s start. No points count from that turn.
No bust variations allow finishing without hitting a double. Players can win by reaching zero exactly with any dart. This style is less common but makes the game faster.
| Rule | Description |
|---|---|
| Doubling Out | Must hit a double to reach exactly zero and win. |
| Bust | Score below zero or zero without a double resets score. |
| No Bust Variations | Finish by reaching zero with any dart, no double needed. |
Consequences Of Busting
Busting in darts means scoring more points than needed to reach zero. The turn ends immediately once a player busts.
All points scored in that turn do not count. The player’s score goes back to what it was before the turn started.
This gives the opponent an advantage because they get to play next. They have a chance to finish the game first.
Busting also breaks the player’s rhythm and can cause frustration. It is important to aim carefully and avoid busting.
Examples Of Bust
Overshooting the target means scoring more points than needed. This causes your score to go below zero. When this happens, your turn ends immediately, and your score resets to what it was before your throw.
Missing the double finish is another way to bust. You must hit a double to win the game. If you reach zero without hitting a double, it counts as a bust. Your points stay the same, and the next player takes their turn.
| Type of Bust | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Overshooting Target | Score goes below zero; turn ends; score resets |
| Missing Double Finish | Reach zero without double; turn ends; score stays the same |
Strategies To Avoid Bust
Calculating scores carefully helps avoid busts. Players must plan their throws to hit exact numbers, especially doubles. Keeping track of remaining points after each dart is key.
Safe dart throws focus on aiming for numbers that don’t reduce the score below zero. Avoid risky shots that might cause a bust. Targeting single numbers before finishing on a double is smart.
Here is a simple strategy table for safe throws:
| Remaining Score | Recommended Target | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Above 50 | High singles or triples | Reduce score quickly without busting |
| 50 or below | Careful singles | Prepare for a double finish |
| 40 or below | Doubles | Finish the game exactly |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Number Do You Go Back To If You Bust In Darts?
If you bust in darts, your score returns to what it was at the start of your turn. Your turn ends immediately.
What Is The No Bust Rule In Darts?
The no bust rule in darts means scoring below zero doesn’t reset your score. Your score stays, and you keep aiming for the exact finish.
What Happens When You Bust In 301?
Busting in 301 ends your turn immediately. Your score resets to the start of that turn. Your opponent then plays. Busting occurs if you score below zero or fail to finish on a required double.
What Happens If You Don’t Finish On A Double In Darts?
Failing to finish on a double ends your turn immediately. Your score resets to the start of that turn. Your opponent then takes their turn.
Conclusion
Busting in darts means your turn ends right away. Your score goes back to what it was before. You lose any points scored that round. Then, your opponent gets to play. Always aim to finish on a double. Avoid going below zero or over your target.
Knowing what happens helps you play smarter. Stay focused and plan each throw carefully. Busts can slow you down but don’t give up. Practice makes it easier to hit the right score. Keep calm and enjoy the game.
