Imagine yourself watching a thrilling dart tournament, marveling at the precision and skill of the players.
As you observe the flurry of accuracy, you may wonder, “What dartboard do they use in tournaments?”
Understanding the importance of a quality dartboard in the game, this article aims to shed light on the type of dartboard commonly seen in professional tournaments.
Get ready to uncover the secrets behind the chosen dartboards that contribute to competitive darts’ excitement and high-stakes nature.
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Types of Dartboards
If you’ve ever played darts, you’ll know that the type of dartboard you play on can make all the difference. The dartboard choice becomes even more crucial in tournaments, where precision and accuracy are paramount.
Three main types of dartboards are commonly used in tournaments: bristle dartboards, electronic dartboards, and paper dartboards. Each board hasque features and characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences. In this article, we will delve into each type of dartboard, explore its advantages and disadvantages, and shed light on the popular choices in professional tournaments.
Bristle Dartboards
Bristle dartboards stand out as the most widely used type in professional tournaments. But what makes them so popular? The primary reason is the durability and playability they offer. Bristle dartboards are constructed using sisal fibers, which are densely packed together to form a dense and self-healing surface.
This characteristic allows the board to withstand thousands of dart throws without displaying significant wear and tear. Moreover, the self-healing property ensures that the punctures caused by the darts close up, leaving minimal visible marks.
In addition to their durability, bristle dartboards are also preferred in tournaments due to their exceptional scoring and bounce-out accuracy. The sisal fibers create a textured surface that reduces bounce-outs, ensuring that your darts stick to the board securely. This feature is of utmost importance in competitive play, as it prevents unfair advantages or disadvantages due to inaccurate scoring or interrupted game flow.
A few names stand out when it comes to popular bristle dartboards used in tournaments. The Unicorn Eclipse Pro is widely regarded as one of the best bristle dartboards on the market. Its ultra-slim wire design and staple-free construction maximize the target area while minimizing bounce-outs. The Winmau Blade 5 is another top choice, featuring thin wiring and a radial spider to reduce bounce-outs and provide a more prominent scoring area. Other notable options include the Target Nexus, One80 Gladiator III, and Shot Bandit Plus.
Electronic Dartboards
While bristle dartboards dominate the tournament scene, electronic dartboards have gained significant popularity in recent years. These dartboards, equipped with electronic sensors and LED displays, offer a modern and interactive playing experience. In tournaments, electronic dartboards are often utilized in specific formats or exhibition matches, adding a touch of innovation and excitement to the game.
One of the critical reasons electronic dartboards are used in tournaments is their convenience. With automatic scoring and game tracking, players can focus solely on their throws without manual scorekeeping. Additionally, electronic dartboards often come with various game options and variations, allowing for a versatile and enjoyable playing experience.
When it comes to features, electronic dartboards boast numerous advantages. The LED displays provide clear and visible scoring, eliminating disputes or confusion. They also offer different skill levels, making them suitable for beginners and advanced players. Furthermore, some electronic dartboards come with online connectivity, allowing players to compete with opponents worldwide.
Although electronic dartboards are not as commonly seen in professional tournaments as bristle dartboards, they have become popular in specific exhibition matches or alternative dart events. Some well-known electronic dartboard brands used in tournaments include Viper, Arachnid, and Fat Cat.
Paper Dartboards
While bristle and electronic dartboards take the spotlight in professional tournaments, paper dartboards have a unique place in recreational tournaments and casual play. These inexpensive and lightweight dartboards are often seen in pubs, bars, and game rooms where the focus is more on having fun than adhering to strict tournament regulations.
One of the primary reasons paper dartboards are less common in tournaments is their lack of durability. Unlike bristle and electronic dartboards, paper dartboards are not designed to withstand heavy usage and repeated dart throws. The paper surface tends to wear out quickly and tear easily, making iit unsuitable for intense competitive play where longevity is crucial.
However, paper dartboards do have their own set of advantages. They are highly affordable and easily replaceable, making them a popular choice for casual gatherings and events requiring multiple boards. Additionally, paper dartboards often come with unique designs and themes, adding a touch of personality and flair to the game.
Key Factors Considered for Tournament Dartboards
When it comes to selecting dartboards for tournaments, several key factors are taken into consideration. These factors ensure a fair and standardized playing environment while enhancing the overall experience for the players. Let’s take a closer look at some of these essential considerations.
Durability and Longevity
Durability and longevity are paramount when it comes to tournament dartboards. With thousands of throws each day, the dartboard must withstand the rigorous demands of continuous play. With their self-healing sisal fibers, Bristle dartboards excel in this aspect, as they are designed to last for an extended period without showing significant signs of wear and tear.
Bounce-Outs and Scoring Accuracy
In professional tournaments, every dart thrown counts. Therefore, bounce-outs, where darts fail to stick to the board, are highly undesirable. Tournament dartboards need to minimize bounce-outs to ensure accurate scoring and fair play. Thanks to their textured surface, Bristle dartboards minimize bounce-outs and provide a reliable and consistent playing experience.
Official Certification and Regulation
Dartboards used in professional play must adhere to specific regulations and standards to maintain fairness and consistency across tournaments. Organizations such as the British Darts Organisation (BDO), the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC), and the National Dart Association (NDA) have established official certification criteria that dartboards must meet to be considered suitable for tournament use. These certifications ensure that the dartboard dimensions, sector layout, material composition, numbering, and color coding align with standardized rules.
Regulation Dartboard Specifications
Regulatory bodies have established specific dimensions, materials, and design elements that tournament dartboards must adhere to to ensure uniformity and fairness. Let’s take a closer look at some of these specifications:
Dimensions and Sector Layout
Regulation dartboards are typically 18 inches in diameter, with each scoring segment known as a sector. The sectors are numbered from 1 to 20 in a specific order, with alternating colors for easy identification. The bullseye, located at the center of the board, is divided into an inner and outer ring.
Material and Composition
Bristle dartboards are the most common type used in tournaments due to their durability and self-healing properties. The sisal fibers used in these boards provide an ideal playing surface that can withstand repeated dart throws without significant damage.
Numbering and Color Coding
The numbering and color coding of the dartboard are also standardized to ensure consistency and familiarity for players. The numbers are typically white or yellow, with black or red borders surrounding each sector. The bullseye is often divided into red and green sections, with the outer bullseye usually green and the inner bullseye red.
Brands and Models Used in Professional Tournaments
Now that we’ve explored the different types of dartboards and their features let’s take a look at some of the brands and models that are highly regarded in professional tournaments:
Unicorn Eclipse Pro
The Unicorn Eclipse Pro is widely recognized as one of the best bristle dartboards. Its ultra-slim wire design and staple-free construction maximize the target area and minimize bounce-outs. This board is frequently seen in prestigious tournaments and is favored by many professional players for its exceptional quality and longevity.
Winmau Blade 5
The Winmau Blade 5 is another top choice among professional players. It features thin wiring and a radial spider design, which reduces the chance of bounce-outs and provides a more prominent scoring area. The Blade 5 is highly regarded for its durability and performance, making it a popular choice in competitive play.
Target Nexus
The Target Nexus electronic dartboard has gained significant popularity in the tournament scene. This electronic board offers seamless connectivity, allowing players to engage in online competitions and track their progress. With a wide range of game options and accurate scoring capabilities, the Target Nexus combines innovation with tournament-level performance.
One80 Gladiator III
The One80 Gladiator III is a bristle dartboard known for its longevity and exceptional quality. With a precision-engineered spider and staple-free construction, this board minimizes interruptions caused by bounce-outs and offers a consistent playing surface. It is a favorite choice among professional players who prioritize reliability and accuracy.
Shot Bandit Plus
The Shot Bandit Plus is a top-notch bristle dartboard that excels in durability and performance. With its high-density sisal fibers and advanced staple-free construction, this board is renowned for its longevity. The Shot Bandit Plus provides an optimal playing surface for professional tournaments, ensuring excellent scoring accuracy and minimal bounce-outs.
Maintenance and Care for Tournament Dartboards
Proper maintenance and care are essential to keep tournament dartboards in top condition. Here are a few tips to ensure the longevity and performance of your tournament dartboard:
Rotating the Dartboard Regularly
To prevent excessive wear on specific areas of the dartboard, it is recommended to rotate it regularly. By rotating the board occasionally, you distribute the dart impacts more evenly, extending the board’s lifespan.
Using High-Quality Steel-Tip Darts
High-quality steel-tip darts are essential when playing on a tournament dartboard. Cheap or lower-quality darts can cause excessive damage to the surface and result in premature wear. Invest in well-constructed, durable darts to protect the integrity of the dartboard and maintain optimal gameplay.
Proper Cleaning and Odor Control
Regular cleaning of the dartboard is crucial to remove accumulated dirt, dust, or debris. Use a soft brush or cloth to wipe the surface gently, avoiding harsh chemicals or excessive moisture that may damage the board. If odors become an issue, consider using odor-absorbing materials near the dartboard to keep it fresh and pleasant.
Regional Differences in Tournament Dartboards
Dartboard standards and regulations can vary depending on the region and governing body. Let’s take a look at how different organizations and standards impact tournament dartboards:
British Darts Organisation (BDO) Standards
The British Darts Organisation sets the standard for tournament dartboards in the United Kingdom. The BDO regulations include specific measurements for the dartboard diameter, sector arrangement, numbering, and color coding. Manufacturers must adhere to these standards when producing dartboards intended for use in BDO-sanctioned tournaments.
Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) Standards
The Professional Darts Corporation, based in the United Kingdom, is another leading organization in professional darts. The PDC has its own set of regulations for tournament dartboards, which may differ slightly from those of the BDO. Dartboards used in PDC events must meet the specifications set by this governing body.
National Dart Association (NDA) Standards
In the United States, the National Dart Association sets the standards for tournament dartboards. Like the BDO and PDC, the NDA has specific regulations regarding the dimensions, materials, sector layout, and numbering of dartboards used in their sanctioned events.
Players and tournament organizers need to familiarize themselves with the relevant regional standards to ensure compliance and fair play.
Conclusion
Regarding tournament dartboards, the choice depends on various factors such as durability, bounce-out prevention, and official regulation adherence. Bristle dartboards, known for their durability and self-healing properties, are the preferred choice in professional tournaments.
With their automatic scoring and interactive features, electronic dartboards add a modern touch to specific tournament formats. Paper dartboards, while less common in tournaments, find their place in recreational play and casual gatherings.
Critical factors considered for tournament dartboards include durability, bounce-out prevention, and adherence to official regulations. Dartboard maintenance and care are crucial to prolong the board’s lifespan and maintain optimal gameplay conditions. Regional differences in dartboard standards and regulations highlight the importance of understanding the rules specific to the governing body organizing the tournament.
Whether you’re a professional player or a casual enthusiast, choosing dartboard can significantly impact your playing experience. Consider the type of dartboard that suits your needs and preferences, and enjoy the thrill and excitement of playing darts on a tournament-level board.
