The Dartboard Digest: From Historical Roots to Home Set-up
The dartboard, as we know it today, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The first dart boards were thought to have been derived from targets used in military training, and were simply slices cut from the end of a tree trunk. The natural circular pattern of tree rings and the way the wood cracked formed the initial segments of the dartboard, leading to a unique design that has evolved over time.
The game of darts began to take its modern form in the late 19th century, with the invention of the modern dartboard attributed to a carpenter from Lancashire named Brian Gamlin in 1896. However, different regions of the UK had their own styles of dartboards, made from various types of wood. These dart boards were kept moist to prevent them from drying out and splitting.
The early 20th century saw the introduction of dartboards made from clay as an alternative to wood but it wasn’t until the 1930s that a long-lasting and damage-resistant dartboard made from compressed sisal fibre was introduced by a London-based company called Nodor. Despite being initially expensive, these sisal dart boards eventually became the standard in the 1970s, replacing the traditional wooden dart boards which had become rare due to Dutch elm disease.
Fast forward to today and the dartboard is as popular as ever. Darts is considered the 9th most popular sport in the UK and televised matches are being watched by ever-growing audiences. To help you get the most from this popular sport, you can follow the advice below to help you find the right board and the perfect location for it.
How to find the perfect dartboard
Choosing the perfect dartboard can seem like a daunting task, especially for a beginner. With so many options available, it’s crucial to understand the different types of dartboards and their unique features. The game of darts, tracing its origins back to the 1300s in Medieval England, has come a long way. Today, it’s a popular hobby and a professional sport, played on a variety of boards, each offering a unique darting experience. The points below can help you navigate through the dartboard selection process, ensuring you make an informed decision and find the perfect board to enhance your skills and enjoyment of the game.
Key considerations for buying your first dartboard:
Type of dart board: Decide if you want a traditional bristle board or an electronic one. Bristle boards, made from compressed sisal fibres, offer an authentic darting experience and are commonly used by professionals. Electronic boards, on the other hand, are ideal for beginners and families, featuring automatic scoring and a variety of game modes.
Material: Bristle boards are made from sisal or vegetal hairs, offering high durability. Look for high-quality sisal, often African, as it helps minimise bounce-outs and prolongs the board’s lifespan.
Wiring: The wiring of the dartboard plays a crucial role in gameplay. Look for a board with thin, staple-free wiring to reduce bounce-outs. Some dartboards feature a removable number ring, allowing you to rotate the board for even wear.
Brand: Consider well-respected brands like Winmau and Unicorn for a quality dart board. Each brand offers unique features, so explore your options and find what suits you best.
Budget: Dart boards come in a range of prices. Entry-level boards are more affordable but may lack some features of more expensive boards. Decide on a budget beforehand and choose a board that offers the best value for your money.
Remember, the best dartboard for you depends on your personal preferences and how you plan to use it. Whether you’re a casual player or aiming to go professional, there’s a board out there that’s perfect for you.
How to set up your dartboard
Once you’ve purchased your first dart board, you’ll need to set it up correctly to ensure an optimal playing experience. Here’s how to do it:
- Height: The dartboard should be hung so that the centre of the bullseye is 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) from the ground. This is the standard height for both soft-tip and steel-tip darts.
- Oche Distance: The oche (pronounced “ockey”), or throw line, should be 7 feet 9.25 inches (237 cm) from the face of the board for steel-tip darts and 8 feet (244 cm) for soft-tip darts.
- Location: Choose a location that is free from obstructions and distractions. Ensure there is enough space for the player to throw comfortably. Also, make sure the area behind the dartboard is protected, as missed darts can damage walls or injure bystanders.
- Lighting: Adequate lighting is important. Aim for even, shadowless light so you can see the board clearly. Avoid placing the board in direct sunlight as it can cause glare.
Remember, the key to a great dart game is a properly set up dartboard.
Now that you have more information on the history, how to choose a board and how to set it up once it arrives, all that you need to do now is look online and start your search for the perfect dartboard. Follow the link to find out what Double Top Darts, one of the top retailers in the UK, has to offer to get you started.