Getting to grips with your darts throw isn’t about copying a textbook technique, it’s about exploring what feels right for you…

There’s no one-size-fits-all formula here. Every player throws differently and every set of darts responds differently in each person’s hand.

This guide breaks down the basic mechanics of a darts throw, from your stance and grip to the release and follow-through. Think of it as a starting point, not a strict rulebook. At Throw Darts, we believe finding your throw is a personal journey, one that takes time, trial, adjustment and plenty of practice.

Let’s get into it.

Start with breath and focus

Before you even think about the mechanics of the throw, take a moment. One breath in, one breath out. This simple step does more than just calm the nerves; it resets your rhythm and helps you focus on the board, not the noise around you. Think of it as a mental “step up” to match your physical one.

The stance – find your base

A good stance is the foundation of any consistent darts throw. Conventionally, players are encouraged to stand side-on or at a 45-degree angle to the oche, keeping the front foot at the same angle, stable and with most of the weight over that leg. But if you find yourself squirming or leaning awkwardly, change it. There’s nothing wrong with a more squared-up approach or shifting your balance slightly.

The stance isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about finding stability that allows your arm and hand to do their job with minimal distraction. That’s why we always say: use convention as a starting point, not a rulebook.

Line it up: shoulder, elbow, wrist

The power in a darts throw comes from a chain of aligned movement. Your upper arm should stay relatively still while your forearm moves like a hinge at the elbow. The wrist should stay relaxed, the hand guiding the dart along its line of flight, not forcing it.

That movement should feel smooth, not rushed or stiff. If anything feels tense or jerky, it’s worth slowing things down and resetting. It’s not about how hard or fast you throw, similarly to a golf wing, it’s about a fluid, repeatable motion.

The grip – light and balanced

There’s no universal way to grip a dart. Some prefer thumb and two fingers, others use three. Some hold closer to the point, some further back near the flight. It depends on the barrel shape, weight distribution and what simply feels most secure in your hand.

What matters is this: your grip should be firm but relaxed. Too tight, and you’ll snatch or push the dart. Too loose, and you’ll lose control. Try different dart weights and barrel shapes until you find what gives you confidence at release.

This is where our try-before-you-buy ethos comes into its own, testing different setups at Throw Darts is how many players discover their ideal darts set.