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It is no surprise that in the past decade, axe and hatchet throwing has gone from a lumberjack pastime to a national phenomenon. Professional leagues, including the World Axe Throwing League and National Axe Throwing Federation, hold competitions all over the US.
Whether you want to go all out on axes or just have some fun, this type of demolition is perfect for anyone. The common denominator is the idea that you are having fun and getting your eye on the target.
Ground Rules
The rules are simple. The player aims at a 36-inch wide target and flings weapons. The closer they get, the higher their score will be if it sinks into that specific section of space allotted for shots to fall within. The atmosphere is exciting and challenging. It's a throwback to an earlier time (the last pun, we swear). And there will usually be beer on the premises!
Backyard Axe-Throwing Area
Find an open area that is free of obstacles. You can even use your garage if the ceiling height meets minimum standards at 12 feet tall!
When throwing an axe, it’s important to have a backstop and measure 12 ft from your target. You should also create three foot deep throwing box on the ground near where you want this tool located before launching any axes.
How to Make an Axe-Throwing Target
Throwing an axe against a tree trunk is not only dangerous for you but also for the tree! You should always make sure that your target of choice will be safe when hit by any tools or weapons.
We're about to build one from plywood or any other softwood - better yet buy an entire large circular stump that can hang flat and bases must have at least 24-inches in diameter (or 5 centimeters).
The best way to install a shooting range is by building it from 2 x 10s with the header and footer on top of five boards mounted vertically together.
Types of Axes Are Best for Axe Throwing
When starting out with an axe, it’s easier to go for something heavier between three and five pounds. You can still get precision when chopping wood but they'll be more forgiving if your technique is off-course!
Once you improve how well these work in different conditions then lighter cutlasses might suit better - try 1-1/2 pounders or less depending on what type of blade style suits best (straight vs curved).
The steel one-piece axe with a 14 to 16-inch handle is the best choice for beginners. The wooden handled tool might look good but it also breaks, especially when used by those who are just starting out in woodcutting!
Here are the Best Throwing Axes we have selected for you no matter your skill level so dive in and take a look!
Throwing Axes For Beginners
SOG Throwing Hawks- 3 Pack One Piece Steel Throwing Knives with Nylon Sheath Carrying Case, 1.75 Inch Blade Field Tool with Paracord Wrapped Handles
Tomahawk Throwing Axe Set by SOG
The throwing tomahawks have a 1.75-inch full-tang blade, so they'll last for years and are perfect if you're just starting out in the sport of throwing! Plus there are removable paracord handles which can be replaced with different ones depending on your preference.
The Kill Shot: World Axe Throwing League Premium Competition Throwing Axe with Durable Throwing Hatchet Molded Fibreglass Handle
Kill Shot Throwing Axe by WATL
The blade of this beginner-friendly axe was designed by the official governing body for a sport that knows a thing or two. Its thin profile encourages throws to sink deep and stick, while its 2.25 pounds in weight ensures players are able to score consistently with fierce competition.
Throwing Axes For Intermediate Throwers
The Big Axe: World Axe Throwing League Premium Competition Throwing Axe & Multi-Purpose Camping Axe or Wood Splitting Axe with Hickory Wooden Handle
The General Throwing Axe by WATL
With its elegant design and balance in flight, this is one ax that will make you feel like an elite woodsman. The 26-inch handle allows for easy cutting to fit your needs perfectly!
SOG FastHawk Polished Tomahawk - Tactical Axe with Sheath, Throwing Hatchet w/ Hammer Axe Edge for Competition Throwing, Camping, Hunting
FastHawk Throwing Hatchet by SOG
Whisper-light is an excellent choice for those who are just starting to learn how to throw a knife. It has one of the lightest weights on our list at 19 ounces, making it easy enough that even beginners can easily handle this tool.
Throwing Axe - Win Your Next Viking Throwing Tomahawk Competition! 19" Hand Forged Hatchet from High Carbon Steel, NMLRA Approved, 100% Guaranteed from Defects
Hand-Forged Carbon Steel Tomahawk by Thrower Supply
The handle on this axe is attached to the head directly, so you can throw it with all your might and not worry about breaking off or chipping any blades. Plus- It weighs only 1.6 pounds! The 3.75-inch blade gives performers plenty of power for their tricks while looking stylish.
Best Throwing Axes For Experts
Black Eagle Double Bit Axe
Double Bit Throwing Axe by Estwing
The Estwing axe is a must-have for any professional thrower. With its 2.55 pounds of fixed blade weight and 17-inch handle, this tool makes it easier to control your throws with more power than you ever thought possible!
CRKT Woods Chogan Tomahawk Axe: RMJ T-Hawk Lightweight Outdoor Camping Axe with Hammerhead, Forged Carbon Steel Blade, and Hickory Wooden Handle
Woods Chogan Tomahawk Axe by CRKT
The CRKT throwing axe is a well-balanced, highly utilitarian blade that cuts into the wood with ease. This makes it perfect for experienced throwers who want something light enough to use that weighs just slightly over one pound for those long nights throwing!
Throwing Axes For All Skill Levels
CRKT Freyr Axe: Outdoor Axe with Deep Beard Design, Forged Carbon Steel Blade, and Hickory Wooden Handle
The Freyr Throwing Axe by CRKT
The rugged carbon steel blade of the ax is designed to hold its edge longer, while a dense Tennessee hickory handle provides handsome looks and durability. North Carolina blacksmith Elmer Roush created this implement in honor of his hometown.
The Butcher: World Axe Throwing League Premium Competition Throwing Axe with Throwing Hatchet Nylon Sheath and Hickory Wooden Handle
The Butcher Throwing Axe by WATL
The WATL Axe is a light and easy-to-use hatchet-style axe that will get you through your workout without getting tired out. The thin blade means it can be forgiving for new throwers, while also remaining reliable every time!
This second iteration has all of the same great features as its predecessor but comes in at just under 2.5 pounds so even people with shorter arms have no problem picking them up or swinging hard enough to throw axes with friends on a camping trip.
