Short answer: there is no official single “least-hit number” for every darts player. In ordinary 501, numbers such as 3, 7, 11 and 13 may be hit less deliberately because players usually aim at 20, 19, trebles, doubles and checkout routes. But the least-hit number depends on the player, game format and whether you mean intentional hits or accidental hits.
Last checked: 26 June 2026. This guide is written for standard steel-tip darts practice and 501-style play. Actual hit patterns vary by player level and game format.
Why this question is harder than it sounds
A dartboard has 20 numbered segments, plus bull areas. In theory, every number is available on every visit. In practice, players do not aim at every number equally. Most scoring visits are built around 20s and 19s. Finishing practice focuses on doubles. Setup play uses numbers that leave preferred finishes. That means some numbers naturally get much less attention.
However, “least hit” can mean two different things. It can mean the number players aim at least. Or it can mean the number that receives the fewest darts overall, including accidental misses. Those are not the same. A player may never aim at 1, but hit it often while missing treble 20.
Intentional versus accidental hits
| Meaning | Example | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Intentional hit | Aiming single 16 to leave tops | Shows route choice |
| Accidental hit | Hitting 1 while aiming at treble 20 | Shows miss pattern |
| Practice hit | Around-the-clock drill | Artificially increases all numbers |
| Match hit | Target chosen under pressure | Shows real decision-making |
Numbers that are often ignored
Numbers away from common scoring, cover and finishing routes can be neglected. Segments such as 3, 7, 11 and 13 are not useless, but beginners do not usually build plans around them. They appear in certain checkouts and setup situations, yet they are not as central as 20, 19, 18, 16 or bull.
That does not mean you should ignore them. A player who cannot move around the board will struggle in games such as cricket-style formats, around-the-clock drills and awkward finishing situations.
Why 20 dominates
Treble 20 is worth 60, the highest single-dart score on the board. That makes the 20 segment the most targeted area in standard scoring. Even misses from treble 20 often land in single 20, 5 or 1. So the top of the board receives a lot of action, both intentional and accidental.
This is why a player may hit 1 more often than 13 despite never aiming at 1. The 1 segment sits beside 20, so it catches a lot of missed scoring darts.
Why 19 is hit more than many beginners expect
Treble 19 is the main cover shot. If treble 20 is blocked, the angle is poor, or the player wants a different leave, 19 becomes important. Strong players often practise 19s deliberately because it keeps scoring high when the 20 bed is not available.
Beginners who never practise 19s can become too dependent on treble 20. When the first dart blocks the bed, they force the next two darts into a poor target instead of switching confidently.
Least-hit numbers in different games
In 501, lower odd numbers may be aimed at less often. In cricket-style games, numbers 15 to 20 and bull dominate. In around-the-clock, every number is targeted equally by design. In finishing practice, numbers connected to common doubles become more important.
That is why any claim about the least-hit number should state the format. A number that is ignored in 501 scoring might be essential in a practice game.
Why neglected numbers matter
Neglected numbers expose weak board control. If you only practise 20s, you may improve one area while staying uncomfortable everywhere else. Then a real leg forces you to hit single 13, double 7 or treble 18, and the throw suddenly feels unfamiliar.
Good players look comfortable across the board because they have trained movement. They know how to adjust their eyeline, stance and release without rebuilding the throw from scratch.
Useful practice drills
- Around the clock: hit 1 to 20 in order, then repeat on doubles.
- Odd numbers drill: practise 3, 7, 11, 13, 17 and 19.
- Cover drill: alternate visits between 20s and 19s.
- Setup drill: practise leaving 40, 32 and 36 from awkward scores.
- Cricket-style drill: focus on 15 to 20 and bull to build selective accuracy.
How to find your least-hit number
Track 10 practice sessions. Write down which numbers you aim at and which numbers you actually hit. Separate intentional targets from accidental hits. You may discover that you rarely aim at 13, but hit 5 constantly because your treble 20 miss is drifting left or right.
That information is useful. It tells you whether the issue is route knowledge, board coverage or a specific miss pattern.
Equipment and board condition
If certain segments are badly worn, your hit pattern can become distorted. A damaged treble 20 bed may create bounce-outs and force cover shots. A board that is not rotated can wear unevenly. Keep the board fresh enough that practice reflects your throw, not the condition of the sisal. Browse dartboards and darts accessories if your setup needs attention.
Bottom line
The least-hit number in darts depends on what players aim at, what they miss into and what game they are playing. In standard 501, some lower or awkward numbers receive less deliberate attention, but the smarter lesson is to practise the whole board. The more comfortable you are away from 20s, the less fragile your game becomes.
FAQ
What number do darts players aim at most?
In standard scoring, treble 20 is the main target because it scores 60.
Are low numbers useless?
No. They appear in setup shots, checkouts and practice games.
Should beginners practise every number?
Yes. Start with scoring targets, but use around-the-clock drills to build board coverage.
Why do I hit 1 so often?
Usually because it sits next to 20 and catches missed darts aimed at treble 20.
