301 Rules
301 is a faster x01 darts format: start on 301, subtract every turn, and finish on a double to win the leg.
- Start at 301 Begin on 301 for a faster x01 leg format.
- Subtract each turn Update the remaining score after every visit.
- Finish on a double Close the leg on a legal double checkout.
🧠 How 301 Works in One Minute
Here is the quickest beginner summary before deeper route and pressure decisions.
- Confirm straight-in or double-in before play.
- Start on 301.
- Throw up to 3 darts per turn.
- Subtract scored points each visit.
- Try to leave a makeable finish.
- Reach exactly 0.
- Final dart must be a double.
- Bust resets the turn.
Bull = 50: it is a valid finishing dart when 50 is exactly left.
📘 Core 301 Rules
These are the three rule checks that decide whether the leg continues, ends, or busts.
How scoring works
Each player starts on 301 and throws up to three darts per turn. After every visit, scored points are subtracted from the remaining total. In double-in formats, points only start counting after a valid opening double.
How to win a leg
A leg ends only when a player reaches exactly zero with a valid double finish. If the winning double is hit on dart one or two, the leg ends immediately.
What counts as a bust
A bust means the turn does not count and the score returns to the start of that turn.
- Go below 0
- Leave 1 in double-out
- Reach 0 without a valid double finish
🎯 Common 301 Checkouts
Checkout routes vary by player preference, but simple doubles are often preferred when planning the next dart.
| Score left | Typical finish | Why players like it |
|---|---|---|
| 40 | D20 | Fast one-dart close in short-format legs. |
| 32 | D16 | Popular leave because split routes stay simple. |
| 24 | D12 | Stable option for players preferring top-half doubles. |
| 16 | D8 | Reliable progression double for repeatable practice. |
| 62 | T10, D16 | Balanced route that keeps a strong backup leave. |
| 81 | T19, D12 | Common 301 pressure finish with clear route logic. |
⚠️ Common Beginner Mistakes
These habits make 301 harder than it needs to be for new players.
Forgetting to confirm double-in
Many 301 games are played straight-in, but some formats use double-in. Not confirming this creates avoidable disputes.
Agree straight-in or double-in before the first dart.
Rushing because 301 is shorter
Short legs can feel urgent, but rushed route choices usually create awkward leaves and busted visits.
Keep route discipline even when the pace is fast.
Forcing hero shots too early
In 301, one poor aggression decision can decide the leg. Controlled setup shots often win more consistently.
Protect a favorite double when finish percentage is low.
🎬 Watch a Quick 301 Explainer
How To Play a Game of Darts (301) | Martin Mann
by Martin Mann
Use this as a visual recap after the written rules and checkout examples above.
Use this rule in real matchplay
Go from rule understanding to checkout decisions, setup habits, and practical in-game choices.
❓ 301 Rules FAQ
Why do players use 301?
301 keeps the same x01 logic as 501 but creates shorter legs, so players get more finishing repetitions in less time.
Does 301 change board values?
No. Singles, doubles, trebles, and bull values are identical; only the starting score and leg tempo change.
Can 301 be played in leagues?
Yes. Many clubs use 301 for quick formats or training sessions, even though 501 is the standard for most major competitions.
Is 301 straight-in or double-in?
Both exist. Most casual and league games use straight-in, but some formats use double-in. Confirm the start rule before play.
Can a leg end before all three darts are thrown?
Yes. A visit is up to three darts, but the leg ends immediately when a player hits a valid finishing double.
Can bullseye finish a leg in 301?
Yes. Bull counts as 50 and is valid as a finishing dart when 50 is the exact remaining score.
🔎 Sources and Editorial Review
- Written by
- The Darts Fan editorial team
- Reviewed against
- WDF Playing Rules and PDC Rules of Darts
- Last reviewed
- March 2026
- How this page was built
- This guide combines official rules, matchplay conventions, and beginner-focused explanations.