If a dart hits another dart, the score depends on where the thrown dart ends up. If it deflects and stays in the board, it scores where it lands. If it bounces out or sticks into another dart without entering the board, it usually does not score.
This can look confusing because the dart may touch a scoring dart first, but contact is not what matters. Final position matters.
Quick answer
A dart scores only if it remains in the board until the visit is complete and the score is called. If it hits another dart and falls out, it does not normally count.
Common situations
| Situation | Typical outcome | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Deflects into board | Scores | Count where it lands |
| Bounces out | No score | It did not stay in |
| Sticks into another dart | Usually no score | It is not in the board |
| Knocks another dart | Original dart counts if still in | Score what remains valid |
What is a robin hood?
A robin hood is when one dart sticks into the back of another dart. It looks dramatic, but if the second dart is not in the board, it does not normally score.
What if a dart knocks another dart out?
Rules can vary by setting, but the practical principle is to agree the score before removing darts. In most casual play, darts that are not in the board when collected do not score.
How to avoid disputes
- Do not pull darts until the score is agreed.
- Call the score before touching the board.
- Use consistent house rules in casual games.
- Check competition rules in league or tournament play.
Equipment note
Frequent bounce-outs can come from a worn board, blunt points or poor board condition. If bounce-outs are common, check your dartboard, points and darts accessories.
Related guides
Why final position matters
Darts scoring is based on the dart that remains in the board. A dart can hit a flight, barrel or point on the way in, but the important question is whether it finishes in a scoring segment and stays there long enough to be counted.
Casual play versus competition
In casual play, agree the rule before the game starts if bounce-outs are common. In organised play, use the competition rules. This avoids arguments when a dart hits another dart, falls out or lands awkwardly.
How equipment affects collisions
Old boards, blunt points and tightly grouped darts can increase bounce-outs or deflections. If the board is hard, worn or damaged around common targets, replacing it can make scoring cleaner and reduce disputes.
What to do in the moment
If a collision happens, pause before touching the board. Look at which darts are still in, agree the score, then retrieve them. Most disagreements happen because someone pulls the darts too quickly.
How to reduce bounce-outs
Keep points sharp enough to enter the board, rotate the dartboard regularly and replace a board once the beds become hard or damaged. A well-kept board will not remove every deflection, but it reduces avoidable bounce-outs.
Bottom line
If a dart hits another dart, score it based on where it finishes. If it stays in the board, it scores. If it falls out or sticks only into another dart, it usually does not.
FAQs
Does a robin hood count?
Usually no, because the dart is not in the board.
Does a deflection count?
Yes, if the dart lands and stays in the board.
Should I remove darts before scoring?
No. Agree the score first.
