Practice Mode
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Darts Checkout Calculator for 501 and 301 Games
This darts checkout calculator helps you find the best finishing routes for your X01 games. Whether you're playing 501 or 301 double-out at your local pub or in a league match, simply enter your remaining score to see the optimal checkout combination. The tool shows you the best route, alternative finishes, and what to throw if you miss your first dart—so you're always prepared during the pressure of a close game.
How It Works
- Enter your remaining score – Type the number you need to finish (between 2 and 170).
- View the best checkout route – Instantly see the recommended finishing combination, plus alternatives.
- Track your darts – If you miss, select what you hit and get updated recommendations for your next throw.
Double-Out Rules Refresher
In standard X01 darts (501, 301), you must finish on a double or the bullseye. The inner bull (centre) scores 50 and counts as a double-out. The outer bull scores 25 but is not a valid checkout. If you go below zero or hit exactly 1 (which has no double), it's a bust and your turn ends with no score deducted.
Bogey Numbers Explained
Bogey numbers are scores with no possible three-dart checkout. The main bogey numbers are 169, 168, 166, 165, 163, 162, and 159. When you're on a bogey number, the calculator shows you the best setup shot to leave a strong finish for your next turn—typically aiming to leave a favourite double like tops (D20) or D16.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest checkout in darts?
The highest possible checkout is 170, achieved with two treble 20s (T20 + T20) followed by the bullseye (50). This is the maximum three-dart finish in 501 or 301 double-out games.
What are the best finishing doubles to aim for?
Most players prefer D20 (tops), D16, or D18 because missing inside gives you a decent single to set up another double. D16 is particularly popular because hitting S16 leaves 16, and you can keep halving down (D8, D4, D2, D1).
What is a bogey number in darts?
A bogey number is a score that cannot be finished in three darts. The bogey numbers are 169, 168, 166, 165, 163, 162, and 159. On these scores, you need to play a setup shot to leave a finishable number.
Can you finish on the outer bull?
No. In double-out rules, only the inner bull (50) counts as a double. The outer bull (25) is a single and cannot be used as a checkout.
What happens if I bust in darts?
A bust occurs when your remaining score goes below zero, equals exactly one, or you hit a double that would take you below zero. Your turn ends immediately and your score reverts to what it was before that turn started.
What is the best checkout for 170?
The only checkout for 170 is T20, T20, Bull (treble 20 + treble 20 + bullseye). There's no alternative route for the maximum checkout.
How do I calculate dart checkouts quickly?
Use this checkout calculator for instant results. For mental maths, learn the common finishes (32=D16, 40=D20, etc.) and work backwards from your favourite double. The key is knowing your doubles and which trebles set them up.
What is the most common checkout in professional darts?
Statistics show D20 (40) is the most hit checkout on the PDC tour, followed by D16 (32) and D18 (36). Professionals often set up these doubles because they're comfortable targets with good miss values.
Why do players prefer double 16?
D16 is popular because of its "halving" property. If you hit S16, you leave 16 and can aim at D8. Hit S8, leave D4, and so on. This self-correcting path is forgiving when you miss the double.
What is a two-dart finish?
A two-dart finish means you can check out in just two darts. The highest two-dart finish is 110 (T20, Bull or T20, D20 for 100). Scores from 2 to 110 have two-dart checkout options.
How do I practice darts checkouts?
Use the Practice Mode above to randomly generate checkout scores. Try to work out the best route before revealing the answer. Focus on learning the common finishes from 2-100 first, then tackle the three-dart checkouts.
What is a setup shot in darts?
A setup shot is a throw designed to leave you on a convenient checkout rather than aiming for a finish you can't hit. For example, on 181 you might throw T20, T20 to leave 101, setting up T17, Bull or T19, D22 next turn.