In this article we are going to take a look at barrier zones and how to use

them in order to come back to the board with the best out possible.
Barrier zones are the foundation of the thought process we are trying to
build when you approach all of your outs. So let's take a look at what
barrier zones are and then we will take a look at some last dart in hand
examples to illustrate how important being aware of barrier zones is to
setting up your outs.
Barrier zones are the crucial numbers where the requirements to get out
change. So here is a list of the crucial barrier zones. Once you understand
these barrier zones you will have the foundation needed to fully
comprehend proper 01 strategy.
60- the first number where a single (without using the bull) gets you to a
double.
65- the first number where a single cork gets you to a dbl (61 same)
80- the first number where two singles (without using the bull) gets you to
a double.
90- the first number where two singles gets you to the bull
100- the first two dart out without using the bull
120- the first three dart out where only one triple is needed to finish on a
non- bull double.
Taking a look at some last dart situations will help to illuminate the
importance of these barrier zones. Example 1- Last dart in hand and you
have 82 left. Using the bull is the best option. While 50 for 32 is ideal, the
real advantage is that a single bull breaks the 60 barrier allowing you to
return for a single to double (57). Shooting the 20 or 14 and hitting a
single would force you to hit a triple or two singles to an out. Example 2Last dart in hand and you have 85 left. Again the bull is the best option
because a single bull gets you to the 60 barrier where only a single will
get you to a double. A single 19 or 15 would fail to do this. Example 3Last dart in hand and you have 122 left. Again the bull is the best setup
dart because a single leaves 97 breaking the 100 barrier and getting you
to a two dart out. A triple now gets you to a double. Where as a single
twenty would leave you on 102- a three dart out. Example 4- Last dart in
hand and you have 80 left. It is crucial to stay at the twenty. While triple
20 for double 10 is ideal, the real benefit comes from hitting a single and
still reaching the 60 barrier where a single brings you straight to dbl 20.
Choosing the triple 16 hoping to get to 32 is a costly error which will very
often end up only affording you one dart at double instead of two.
Example 5- Last dart in hand and you have 145 left. Again using the 25 to
leave 120 is a much better setup than staying at the 20 and more often
than not returning for 125.
Keep the barrier zones in mind when weighing your options and thinking
about different setup situations. Remember... Always break the next
barrier!