The players or teams toss four horseshoes towards a stake in the ground to score points. There are two ways to score the game of horseshoes. Hold the horseshoe flat in front of you, with the arms, or "shanks," pointing to your left. They land on edge in the clay and wedge tightly against the stakes. You can play horseshoes until you reach a certain number of points, or complete a predetermined number of pitches. You may be wondering how the game began and how it has progressed throughout history. In that case, they can toss from the 27-foot line if they would like to. For true regulation play, you should create two sand pits about 40 feet apart with the stake positioned in the center of each pit. Also known as Beersbee, the game of Polish Horseshoes is perfect for barbeques, days at the beach, campgrounds and more. The pitching order switches after every inning. Most horseshoe sets also come with a carrying case include two 24” stakes and (sometimes) a copy of the official rules. When you are ready to insert the stake into the sand, make sure it is angled forward by around 3-inches, and that it only protrudes between 14-15-inches from the top of the pit. Much later, in the year 1869, England created rules to go with the game of horseshoes. It's appropriate to use the same rules for backyard games. Play horseshoes in "Red Dead Redemption" with help from a video games expert in this free video clip. If you're just playing for fun in your backyard, it's okay to set up the horseshoe stakes on grass. Instructions. Part of the series: "Red Dead Redemption". For example, if you have two sets of pits next to each other, they should have something between them. A backstop -- such as a length of railroad tie -- prevents a bouncing shoe from rolling away and injuring a bystander. Even with the addition of these rules, records and tournaments did not start for horseshoes until 1909. Games are made up of innings, and each player (or pair of players) pitches two horseshoes at a stake in the ground during each inning. If a tie exists then each player can take a half win or a two inning tie breaker can be thrown. Make sure to also take the safety information regarding the rules and set up to heart, as it’s vitally important to keep all of the players and surrounding adults and children safe in the process. To execute a one and one-quarter turn, first hold your horseshoe by one shank, with the opening of the horseshoe to the left of your grip (this is for right-handed pitchers; it will be opposite for lefties). The first player throws both horseshoes at the opposite stake one after the other. If someone both scores a ringer and has the closest horseshoe with his remaining turn, that person receives points for both. During a horseshoe game, the stakes are often completely blocked by shoes. When someone is pitching, the opponent(s) need to stand quietly behind the other platform. To play horseshoes, all you need are four shoes and two stakes. For example, if the other player or team throws a ringer and scores 3 points, you can attempt to do the same and cancel out the points they would have earned if you succeed. Rule 4: For the “closest to the stake” points, horseshoes must be within 6 inches of the stake to qualify. To score a point you have to land your horseshoe closer to the stake than your opponent. Whoever’s horseshoe lands closest scores a point. Over the last century, the rules have changed slightly. You’ll probably be spending a bit more time at home, in your backyard this summer, with all of the social distancing restrictions. Polish Horseshoes: How to Play and What You’ll Need, Best Ladder Ball Set: Read Our 2021 Buyers Guide, How to Play Mölkky: The Finnish Throwing Game, How to Play Croquet: “A Curious Ancient Pastime”. Home » Outdoor Games » How to Play Horseshoes: A Complete Guide. Horseshoes is the kind of game that’s fun for the whole family, but it’s not always easy to find a place to play. At the time, the ground around the stake was clay, the distance between the stakes had to be 19 yards, and the players stood level with the stake to make their pitches. Once you have the necessary equipment, you will want to set up the game properly in your backyard. However, if you're practicing constantly, you'll want to reposition the stakes every day to avoid causing wear spots in your lawn. After scoring, the next round is done in reverse order, or by throwing back at the original stake. Now armed with this information, you are ready to start playing the game of horseshoes. Bar Games 101 is a website devoted to helping you learn about the best games to play with your friends. It’s a fun drinking game to play outside, but families can enjoy this one too. Today this has evolved into a full on sport with scoreboards as well as horseshoe courts.