How to Play 701 Darts

The game of 701 is a long-format version of 501, making it perfect for team play and extended matches. It follows the same core principles but requires even more stamina and consistent scoring.

Objective of 701 Darts

• Starting Score: Each player or team begins with 701 points.
• Objective: Be the first player or team to reduce your score exactly to zero.
• Turn Structure: Players take turns throwing three darts.
• Scoring: The point value of each dart is subtracted from the player's remaining score.

How to Score 701 Darts

Scoring in 701 is identical to 501, with the standard "double-out" rule for finishing the game.

• Double-Out Requirement: To win, players must reach exactly zero by hitting a double. For example, if a player has 40 remaining, they must hit a double 20 to win.
• Busting: If a player scores more points than they have remaining or reduces their score to 1 or any score that cannot be finished with a double, the turn is a "bust" and their score reverts to what it was at the beginning of that turn.

701 Darts Team Play Rules

Because of its length, 701 is the ideal format for team-based darts. Here's how it works:

• Team Format: Typically played with 2-4 players per team.
• Turn Rotation: Players on each team take turns throwing, with the order determined before the game starts.
• Shared Score: All team members work toward reducing the same 701 score.

701 Darts Strategy & Tips

• Consistent Scoring: With a higher starting total, consistency becomes even more important. Focus on steady scoring rather than risky shots in the early stages.
• Target Triple 20: The triple 20 (worth 60 points) is still the highest scoring segment and should be your primary target for maximum point reduction.
• Alternative Targets: If you're struggling with triple 20, consider aiming for triple 19 (57 points) or triple 18 (54 points) as alternatives.
• Endgame Planning: As in 501, plan your checkout route carefully to leave yourself on a finish that ends with a double.

701 Game Variations

• Double-In, Double-Out: Some games require a double to start scoring as well as to finish.
• Master-Out: Allows finishing on either a double or a triple.
• Split-Score Team Play: In some team formats, each player has their own 701 score rather than sharing a team score.