The washer toss game, also known as washer pitching, is very similar to the game known as horseshoes. It includes two teams made up of two players who alternate turns throwing washers in the direction of the target box. To score points, one has to place a washer into the target box, the can that is inside it, or within 12 inches of it.

Points are earned in each round by tossing the metal washer, which are usually have a diameter of two inches, toward a hole, usually marked by a PVC pipe or can, in a box. Target boxes will vary in shape and size. Standard types for one-hole washers are 16 x 16 x 4 inches and contain a cylindrical cup in the upper surface. Typically boxes are put approximately 20 feet from each other.

Players have to stand behind or next to boxes when they take their turn. Most make tosses underhand. Scoring is similar to that done in horseshoes. The team that throws second may rebut points earned by the team that went first. A single point is issued for all of the non-rebutted pieces that land in the washer box. Most games last until a team reaches 21 points.

There are variations in the game. The distance of a throw, washer size, configuration of a box, and size and number of holes are just some of the possible differences. It may also have a different name, rules and setup in other regions.

The two things required for setup: boxes and washers. Two boxes are needed and usually include wood, pipe and carpet. Four brass or steel washers are used as game pieces. Small holes can be drilled in them to distinguish between team pieces.

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 will throw their pieces with the objective of landing them in the pipe or box. Players are permitted to make strides forward as they toss, but at least one of their feet has to stay behind the target box. One player on the team tosses his or her two pieces first and the second team follows. People may choose to throw both at the same time, but this is not recommended. The style of throw is the preference of the particular 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.

Horseshoes is much like the washer toss game. This activity usually is played by two different teams that consist of two players. There are many different variations to washer pitching, especially when it comes to rules and regulations. Players score by getting throws inside this box, near it or in the can that is situated inside it.