How to Set Up Your Dartboard: The Complete Guide

Thinking of turning your game room or basement into a darts haven? Setting up your dartboard correctly will make the difference between casual fun and a pro-style experience. In this guide from Kingston Billiards and Games, we’ll walk you through every step — from choosing the wall to measuring the throw line — so you can hang your board right the first time.

Whether you’re mounting a classic steel-tip board or an electronic soft-tip system, these instructions will help you play confidently, safely, and accurately.

1. Understand the Key Setup Measurements

Height of the board

The center of the bullseye should be mounted at **5 feet 8 inches (1.73 m)** from the floor. This is the standard height for both steel‐tip and soft‐tip boards.

Throwing distance (the “oche” or throw line)

Ensuring the correct distance from the board to your throwing point is just as important:

• For steel‐tip boards: 7 ft 9¼ in (2.37 m) from the face of the board.
• For soft‐tip (electronic) boards: 8 ft (2.44 m) from the face of the board.
• If measuring diagonally from the bullseye to the throw line: ~9 ft 7⅜ in (2.93 m) for steel‐tip.

2. Choose the Right Wall & Space

A good setup needs more than just correct measurements. Consider these factors:

• Pick a wall with enough clearance—no obstructions behind the board and no items likely to get hit by stray darts.
• Ensure you have enough standing room in front and beside the throw line so players can move naturally.
• Mounting into a wall stud is best if you’re drilling; drywall alone may need proper anchors.
• If your wall is angled or the floor slopes, take that into account—measure from where the player will stand to avoid a skewed setup.

3. Mounting the Dartboard: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Measure and mark the height

From the floor, measure up 1.73 m and mark that point on the wall—that's where the bullseye should sit. Use a level to make sure your mark is horizontal.

Step 2: Install the bracket or wall‐mount kit

Most dartboards come with a U-shaped or puck-style bracket. Here’s how to proceed:

• Attach the part of the bracket to the wall such that once the board is mounted, the bullseye aligns exactly with your height mark.
• If mounting on drywall, use heavy‐duty anchors unless you hit a stud.
• For boards in cabinets or frames, ensure the cabinet’s center aligns with the bullseye height.

Step 3: Hang and level the board

Slide the board onto the bracket, make sure it’s flush and level. If it wobbles, tighten the mounting screw or adjust the clips.

Step 4: Mark the throwing line (oche)

From the face of the board (not the wall), measure out your throw line distance based on board type. Use tape, a mat, or a dedicated line product.

4. Additional Tips & Best Practices

Protect your wall behind the board

Darts miss sometimes—so use a surround, dart mat, or backboard to limit wall damage and bounce‐outs. Many game rooms benefit from installing a cork or rubber backing.

Lighting and visibility

Ensure good overhead or directional lighting so the board is clearly visible, and glare is minimized. This helps accuracy and reduces eye strain.

Maintenance and board rotation

To prolong board life, rotate the number ring and spin the board to even out wear. Many manufacturers recommend this.

Consider height/space limitations

If ceiling height is low or space is tight, sometimes you may need to adjust—but keep the bullseye height as close to regulation as possible for consistency.

Your Local Expert in Kingston, ON

At Kingston Billiards and Games, we’ve helped dozens of homeowners in the Kingston area create high-quality game rooms. From selecting the right dartboard to supplying surround kits, lighting and accessories — we’re your neighbourhood darts and games authority. Stop in at our showroom or give us a call and we’ll walk you through the full set-up tailored to your space.

Ready to get your board up and playing? Visit us at 1507 John Counter Blvd, Kingston ON K7M 3L5, call (613) 561-6711 or browse online at shop.kingstonbilliardsandgames.com to view boards, brackets, mats, lighting—everything you need.

📍 Visit Us:
1507 John Counter Blvd
Kingston, ON K7M 3L5

📞 Call Us:
(613) 561-6711

💻 Visit Us Online:
shop.kingstonbilliardsandgames.com