How to Throw an Axe

Tips from Stumpy’s Hatchet House

Before you take up the exciting new hobby of axe throwing, it seems like learning how to throw an axe would be a good place to start. Stumpy’s Hatchet House is here to help, offering some axe throwing tips for beginners. Axe throwing has become more and more popular and has even been featured on ESPN. The sport provides many benefits, including exercise, socializing, and relieving stress. We’ll start by explaining the basics of axe throwing and then get into how to throw an axe two-handed and how to choose the best axe.

Learning the Axe Throwing Basics

We’re going to cover the basics so you can be on your way to being a kick axe thrower. If you have any questions, be sure to contact us or visit our nearest location to put what you’re learning into practice.

• What Axe Do I Use? When it comes to axe throwing, the sharper the axe, the better. Stumpy’s provides axes for you to use, but you can also use your own. A common misconception is that a very sharp axe isn’t safe. That’s not true, because sharper axes have a higher chance to stick to the boards without the use of so much force. You won’t find a throwing axe in your local hardware store, because those axes are designed to split wood, not stick to it.
• Finding a Place to Throw – Once you’re ready to get started, you’ll need a place to throw an axe. Stumpy’s Hatchet House offers professional and safe locations to get your axe throwing on. The safety and wellness of our guests is our highest priority. We have locations all over the country, so be sure to check them out and make plans to join us.
• Axe Throwing Safety – Safety should always be your top priority when throwing an axe. First, be sure there is never anyone between you and your target. You should also have a minimum of a six-foot radius around you clear of any other people. Stumpy’s Hatchet House utilizes safety protocols to ensure the safety of our guests.
• Axe Throwing Stance – Once your area is clear, it’s time to take a stance. Here are two of the most efficient and recommended stances:
• Two-handed – Line up directly in line with the bullseye, standing about 12 feet away from the target. The distance you stand may need to be adjusted based on the rotation of the axe.
• One-handed – Line up with the shoulder of your throwing arm directly in line with the bullseye, standing about 12 feet from the target. If you have trouble, remember that two-handed throwing is easier for beginners.

How to Throw an Axe Two-Handed

The two-handed method is recommended for beginners, although you should experiment to see what works best for you. The following steps will teach you how to throw an axe two-handed:

1. Bring your axe back directly overhead like you are about to throw a soccer ball.
2. Bring your arms forward and then release your axe at eye level.
3. Depending on how your axe hits the target, you will need to adjust your distance.

 

• If the axe’s blade hits parallel to the boards, you’re at a perfect distance. Stay there and perfect your throw.
• If the top of axe hits the board, you over-rotated. Take a half step closer to the target.
• IF the bottom of your axe hits the board, you under-rotated. Take a half step backwards.

Getting Help from Our Throwing Coaches

At Stumpy’s Hatchet House, we’re here to help. We know many of our first-time visitors have never thrown an axe. We would be happy to show you the ropes and answer any questions you may have. We hope to see you soon and before long you’ll be an axe throwing expert.