Double out

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Double out is THE defining rule of standard darts. It's what makes the game so much more than just throwing at treble 20 — because no matter how well you score, you cannot win a leg without landing that final dart on a double. This simple rule transforms darts from a pure accuracy contest into a strategic game of scoring AND finishing. The double-out requirement means you must plan your approach to zero carefully. If you're on 50, you can finish with the bull. On 40, it's D20. But what about 87? That's treble 17 (51) to leave 36 (D18). Every number has optimal routes, and knowing them is essential. Double out also creates one of darts' most dramatic situations: the pressure of a checkout attempt. You've scored well all leg, you're ahead of your opponent, you're on 40... and you miss D20. Then miss again. Then miss again. Meanwhile, your opponent chips away and suddenly they're on a finish too. These reversals are what make darts so compelling to watch and play. The rule also means that leaving yourself on an odd number (except those reachable via the 25 outer bull) is a problem — you can't finish on a double from an odd number, so you'll need to hit a single odd number first to get back to even. Smart scoring avoids this trap. Beginners sometimes find double out frustrating because they can't close out legs even when they're ahead. The advice: embrace it. The double-out rule is what gives darts its depth and drama. Practice your doubles, learn your checkout routes, and you'll find the finishing aspect of the game incredibly rewarding.