Short answer: in standard double-out darts, you cannot finish on 25 by hitting the outer bull because the outer bull is not a double. You can finish from 50 by hitting the inner bull, which is normally treated as double bull. If you have 25 left, you usually need to set up a double.
Last checked: 26 June 2026. This guide assumes standard 501 or 301 double-out rules. Casual and soft-tip formats can vary, so check the rules before play.
Outer bull versus inner bull
The bull area has two scoring zones. The outer bull scores 25. The inner bull scores 50. In standard double-out darts, the inner bull can finish a leg because it is treated as the double bull. The outer bull scores points, but it is not a finishing double.
This distinction catches beginners because both areas are called bull in casual conversation. But in checkout terms, they behave differently.
Can 25 finish a leg?
Not in normal double-out rules. If you have 25 left and hit outer bull, you reach zero without hitting a double, so the visit is bust. Your score returns to what it was at the start of the visit.
If your local game uses straight-out rules, then reaching zero with any scoring segment may be allowed. But in standard competitive 501, double-out is the normal expectation.
Examples
| Score left | Dart hit | Standard double-out result |
|---|---|---|
| 50 | Inner bull | Game shot |
| 25 | Outer bull | Bust |
| 25 | Single 9 | Leaves 16 |
| 25 | Single 17 | Leaves 8 |
| 25 | Single 1 | Leaves 24 |
What should you do on 25?
The best route depends on your favourite doubles and confidence. Many players aim for a single number that leaves a comfortable double. For example, single 9 leaves 16 for double 8. Single 17 leaves 8 for double 4. Single 1 leaves 24 for double 12.
The important point is to choose before you throw. If you stand at the oche thinking “25” without a plan, you may hit the outer bull by instinct and bust.
Why bull can be confusing
Players talk about “bull finish” when they mean finishing on 50 with inner bull. That is correct. But “25” is not the same. The outer bull helps with setup shots, cricket-style games and certain scoring situations, but it is not the standard finishing target.
When outer bull is useful
- Setting up a finish from awkward scores.
- Scoring in games where bull is a target.
- Leaving 50 or another preferred number.
- Practising central alignment.
- Playing cricket-style formats where bull marks matter.
Common beginner mistake
A beginner leaves 25, sees the bull area, hits outer bull and celebrates. Then someone explains the bust rule. It feels harsh, but the rule is consistent: the final dart must be a double in double-out formats.
To avoid this, learn common small-number routes. When you get below 60, your first thought should be: “What double am I leaving?”
Practice drill for 25 left
Set your score to 25 and practise three preferred routes:
- S9 to leave D8.
- S17 to leave D4.
- S1 to leave D12.
Throw each route 10 times. Track how often the first dart leaves the intended double and how often you finish. This builds calm decision-making.
Related checkout numbers
Other small odd numbers create similar issues. If you have 31, 35 or 39 left, you usually need to hit a single that leaves an even double. Odd scores require planning because doubles are even-numbered, except the bull finish from 50.
Equipment note
Finishing practice benefits from a clear bull and clean doubles. If your board is worn around the centre or common doubles, your practice feedback becomes less reliable. Browse dartboards, dart sets and darts accessories.
Bottom line
You cannot normally finish on 25 in double-out darts because outer bull is not a double. From 25, use a setup single to leave a double. From 50, inner bull can finish the leg. That small distinction saves a lot of beginner busts.
FAQ
Is outer bull a double?
No. It scores 25 but is not a finishing double in standard double-out darts.
Can inner bull finish a leg?
Yes. Inner bull scores 50 and can finish in standard rules.
What should I aim at from 25?
A single that leaves your preferred double, such as S9 for D8.
What happens if I hit 25 from 25 left?
In double-out rules, you bust and return to your previous score.
Can you finish on 25 in standard 501?
In standard double-out 501, you normally cannot finish on 25 because the final dart has to be a double. The single bull, often called 25, is worth 25 points but it is not a double. The inner bull is worth 50 and normally counts as a double, so 50 can be a one-dart finish.
This is why players try to leave 40, 32, 36, 24, 16 or 50 rather than 25. A score of 25 left usually means you need at least two darts, depending on the exact rules being played.
Why some casual games feel different
Some pub or beginner games use straight-out rules, where any scoring segment can finish the leg. In that format, 25 can finish because the final dart does not need to be a double. That is not the same as the competitive double-out format most players mean when they talk about 501.
Best practice route
Practise from 50, 40 and 32 before worrying about awkward small finishes. These numbers appear constantly and teach you how to manage pressure around the end of a leg.
If you are practising finishes at home, a reliable dartboard and comfortable dart set make checkout routines easier to repeat.
