Whether you're new to darts or looking to sharpen your skills, the right technique makes all the difference. From grip to stance and release, here are some practical tips to help you improve your throw and build consistency.
Finding the Perfect Grip
Relax and Hold Steady
When holding your dart, maintain a relaxed grip. A common mistake is gripping too tightly, which hinders release. Hold the dart firmly enough so it won’t slip, but loosely enough for a smooth release.
Choose Your Fingers
Experiment with grip styles to see what feels best. Many players use a three-finger grip, while others prefer four fingers for added control. To improve grip during long matches, try using chalk or finger wax.
Perfecting Your Stance
Stand Before the Line
When positioning yourself at the oche (throwing line), you may stand on or behind it — but never over it. Your stance should be comfortable and balanced. Common options include:
Diagonal stance
Place more weight on your front foot while using your back foot for balance. This “middle stance” offers flexibility but requires practice for consistency.
Sideways stance
Known as the “closed stance,” your front foot sits along the line with your body sideways. It’s easier to repeat consistently but can cause imbalance if you lean too far forward.
Facing the board
The “open stance” is less common, keeping your body square to the board. It provides balance but forces you to throw from slightly further back.
To Lean or Not to Lean?
Finding the Right Balance
Some players lean forward to get closer to the board, while others stay upright. Leaning can improve accuracy but may cause strain if overdone. A more upright stance is stable but requires greater throwing power.
Preparing for the Throw
Align and Focus
Before throwing, keep these basics in mind:
- Relax your body and release tension.
- Face the dartboard and focus your aim with both eyes.
- Keep your elbow steady in a comfortable position.
Mastering Your Throw
Aim and Release
Align your shoulder, elbow and hand at a 90-degree angle. Bring the dart to eye level, tilt it slightly upward and line up with your target. Release smoothly, keeping your elbow fixed, and follow through with your arm as if pointing at the target. Keep your feet planted and body still throughout the motion.
As with any skill, practice is key. Over time, your grip, stance and release will feel more natural and consistent.
Explore Premier Darts
For more tips and a wide selection of darts and accessories from leading brands, explore our shop and blog. Find the perfect setup for your style and take your dart game to the next level.