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Axe Throwing Guide – What to Know & How to Do it

Whenever there’s a new sport that emerges, it usually takes the world by storm. One bar game or sport that’s gradually taking the scene is axe throwing. This event is typical in many lumberjack competitions, which is slowly becoming popular in North America and other parts of the world.

As the name suggests, axe throwing is literally throwing an axe at a target, aiming to hit the bull’s eye. If you are clueless on what this sport is, think of dart throwing. However, instead of throwing a dart, you’re actually holding an axe with a hand or two. For beginners, throwing an axe is usually not as easy as it sounds. It requires lots of training and advice from experienced throwers.

For your guide and reference, here’s what you should know about axe throwing and how to execute them the right way.

Types of Axe Throwing

As far as axe-throwing is concerned, you have to major ways on how to do it. These are the following:

One handed over the shoulder
One handed over the shoulder
Two-handed over the head
Two-handed over the head

Depending on your strength and power, you can use both styles as they are equally popular and easy to execute. If you find it hard to throw the axe using one hand, then you can try using two hands to generate more power so that you can hit the target.

The Basic of Axe Throwing

Before you proceed with the actual throwing, there are several vital precautionary measures to set in place, such as the following:

  • The key aspect is “throw together, retrieve together.” Make sure to clear the area of people before you start throwing the axe.
  • Sharpen your axe so that it will be much easier to stick to the target. The sharper and thinner the profile of the hatch, the easier it will stick. When doing so, remember not to touch the blade and be very careful.
One-handed axe throw:
One-handed axe throw:
  • Position yourself with your feet together.
  • Decide to use your throwing hand and hold the axe handle securely near the end.
  • Step forward. Position your less dominant foot forward and the more dominant foot behind.
  • Keeping your eye on the target, bring the hatchet forward, and release it with one hand. Note: employ the karate-chop motion instead of a wrist-flicking action for effective execution.
Two-handed axe throw:
Two-handed axe throw:
  • Position yourself with your feet together.
  • Grip the axe firmly near the end of the handle.
  • Raise it above and behind your head with both hands.
  • Place your less dominant forward and the more dominant behind.
  • Focus on the bulls-eye and bring the axe forward.
  • Once your hands are targeted to the bulls-eye, release the hatchet.

Axe throwing may seem hard at first glance, but it can be relatively simple and easy as you practice. With the valuable tips mentioned above, you now know the basics of axe throwing. If this game as exciting and thrilling for you, take the first step and enjoy the game with some of your friends. With persistent practicing and valuable advice from more experience axe-throwers, you’ll learn new tricks and be really good at it in time.

If you’re looking for a recreational axe-throwing venue in Vancouver, get in touch with us to see how we can help.

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