Short answer: three inner bullseyes in darts are usually just called “three bulls” or “three bullseyes”. They score 150 in total. There is no single official nickname used everywhere, although local players may invent their own slang.
Last checked: 26 June 2026. This guide uses standard steel-tip scoring where outer bull is 25 and inner bull is 50.
Three inner bulls
If all three darts land in the inner bull, the score is 50 + 50 + 50 = 150. It is a very accurate visit, but it is not the highest possible score. The maximum is still 180, scored by hitting treble 20 three times.
Bull scoring table
| Visit | Total | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Three outer bulls | 75 | Three 25s |
| Two inner, one outer | 125 | Two 50s plus 25 |
| Three inner bulls | 150 | Three bullseyes |
| Three treble 20s | 180 | Maximum score |
Is it called a hat-trick?
Some people may casually call three of anything a hat-trick, but darts does not have one universally official term for three bullseyes equivalent to “180”. In normal scoring, call the score: 150. If you are describing the visit, “three bulls” is clear.
Why three bulls is impressive
The inner bull is small, central and unforgiving. Hitting it three times shows strong alignment and repeatable release. It is especially impressive in games where bull matters, such as Cricket, practice challenges or finishes that require bull.
In standard 501 scoring, however, three bulls is usually not the most efficient scoring choice. Treble 20 is worth more.
Can three bulls finish a leg?
It depends what score you have left and the order of darts. In double-out darts, the final dart must be a double or inner bull. If the final dart is the inner bull and it takes you exactly to zero, it can finish. But from 150 with three darts, three inner bulls would work because the last dart is also inner bull. In practice, many players choose more common routes depending on their strengths.
Why players practise bull
Bull practice helps straight-line control. Because the target is central, it can reveal whether your throw pulls left, right, high or low. It is also useful for finishing from 50 and for certain high checkout routes.
That said, bull practice should not replace treble and double practice. A complete darts player must score, count and finish across the whole board.
Bull practice routine
- Throw 30 darts at bull.
- Score outer bull as 1 point.
- Score inner bull as 2 points.
- Record the total.
- Repeat weekly and track progress.
This is better than judging yourself on one lucky visit. Trends matter more than one highlight.
Common beginner mistake
Many beginners assume bull is always the best target because it is central and famous. In 501, treble 20 is usually better for scoring. Bull is valuable, but only when it fits the route or the practice goal.
Equipment note
If the bull area is worn, practice becomes less reliable. A damaged centre can cause bounce-outs or loose darts. Keep your board rotated and replace it when wear affects play. Browse dartboards and darts accessories if your board needs attention.
Bottom line
Three inner bullseyes score 150 and are usually called three bulls or three bullseyes. It is a strong accuracy achievement, but not the maximum score. Use bull practice as part of a balanced routine, not the whole routine.
FAQ
What do three bullseyes score?
Three inner bullseyes score 150.
Is three bulls a 180?
No. A 180 is three treble 20s.
Can you finish on bull?
Yes, inner bull can finish under standard double-out rules.
Should beginners aim at bull?
Yes, sometimes, but they should also practise 20s, 19s and doubles.
