What To Know About The Washer Toss Game

By Lana Bray


The washer toss game may also be referred to as washer pitching. This is a lot like horseshoes and is commonly played with two teams with two people. These players take their turns tossing washers in the direction of the target. To score, these pieces have to go inside the box, inside the can in this box, or within a foot of the target box itself.

Points are issued in each round. The metal washers that are used typically have a diameter of approximately two inches. They are tossed toward a hole that is usually marked with a can or PVC pipe that is in a box. The target boxes come in different sizes and shapes. The typical size for one-hole pieces is 16x16x4 inches. These targets include a cylinder-shaped cup in the upper surface. Boxes are usually placed within 20 feet of one another.

The player must stand next to or behind a box while making tosses. Usually the throw is done underhand. Scoring is like horseshoes in that a team that throws second can invalidate the points earned by team one. One point is given for every non-rebutted piece within a box. Games typically go up to 21 points before a winner is chosen.

There are numerous variations in how this may be played. Size of washer, distance they have to be thrown, box configuration, or number and size of holes, are just some variations made in this game. This may have a different name, set up and rules in different regions.

Boxes and washers are the two things needed. Two target boxes are required and usually comprised of carpet, pipe and wood. Four steel or brass washers are necessary and small holes may be drilled in pieces to distinguish between washers for each team.

In general, boxes are put 30 feet apart from the front of one to the other. They should be placed at ground level. It is recommended that the targets be placed in south and north directions so that players are not distracted by sunlight throughout the game.

Players throw washers in an attempt to land them near or in the box or pipe. Some players stride forward as they thrown. However, at least one foot must stay behind the front of a box. One player on the first team will throw two and the player from team two will throw his or her two. Individuals may choose to throw both pieces at the same time, but this is not ideal when it comes to accuracy. The throw style used is relevant to the player.

One team or player is able to score every round. Tosses that land a foot within the target, under it or next to it receive one point. Two points are given for throws that make it to a top edge of these boxes. Three points are earned when the piece lands in the box but not its pipe inside. Five points go to teams with throws that land inside the pipe.

Washer toss game is much like horseshoes. This game is traditionally played between two teams with two players, but there are many different variations in rules and regulations. To score points, individuals must place a washer within a foot of the box, inside it, or in the can inside the box.




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