There’s a reason why Thor uses an axe to destroy his enemies. The survival tool is sturdy and multifunctional, capable of shaping, splitting, chopping, and cutting a variety of materials.
If you’re looking into investing in axe, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the many types of axes so you can get one that best accomplishes your purpose. In the case of axe throwing, this typically means a small hatchet, although some throwers choose other weapons of choice.
In this guide, we’ll break down the different kinds of axes along with their specific functions.
Distinguishing an Axe From a Hatchet and Tomahawk
Before anything else, you need to be able to recognize an axe. Many people mistake an axe as other tools as they’re not familiar with its shape and form. To some, any device with a blade and a wooden handle are referred to as an axe. This, of course, is not the case.
More often than not, people have a hard time differentiating an axe from a hatchet and a tomahawk. As a reference, an axe is larger and is designed for intermediate chopping, while a hatchet is smaller and meant for one-handed use. On the other hand, a tomahawk typically has a straight handle with a thin and flat blade and three heads attached to it.
Let’s break down a few types of axes you should be aware of:
The Various Types of Axes
- Felling Axe: This axe is typically used for chopping logs. It features a large head that weighs around two pounds and a handle that measures two feet long. Its blade is often flat and incredibly sharp.
- Splitting Maul: Typically used to cut firewood, the splitting maul features a wedge-shaped head that’s sharp on one end and blunt on the other.
- Double Bit Axe: Often used by lumberjacks, the double bit axe has long handles and two blades on either end. It’s not advisable to be used by novices as a single mistake can incur a lot of damage.
- Fireman’s Axe: This is pretty self-explanatory. The fireman’s axe is a heavy-duty axe that has a chopping head and a spike on the opposite end, often used by firefighters to break down doors or bust open walls.
- Carpenter’s Axe: Designed to accommodate fine woodwork, the carpenter’s axe is medium-sized and features a blade that allows for ultimate precision.
- Miner’s Axe: This type of axe is smaller in terms of both handle and blade as it’s used in cramped spaces. It’s also designed for general use.
- Viking Axe: This is the axe you often see in war films. There’s no real use for this type of axe anymore, but they can still be utilized for battle reenactments, should you so desire.
- Tactical Axe: A more modern kind of axe, the tactical axe is used for survival situations. It’s usually crafted from forged steel and can double as a weapon, shovel, hammer, or prybar.
- Camping Axe: Another axe for survival is the camping axe, which is designed to do things like cut branches, carve, and split wood. It features a non-slip grip and is compact in size to make it easier to transport.
In a recreational axe throwing facility, you will most likely be provided with small hatchets. These are lightweight and relatively easy to throw. The handle also offers a better grip.
Although small hatchets are the most commonly found in recreational facilities, some do offer a greater variety of axes to throw. Whether you’re looking for a throwing axe or one for practical use, there are tons of axes out there, and your choice will ultimately depend on how and what you’re using it for.
If you want to practice your axe throwing skills and spend some quality time with friends in Vancouver, get in touch with us to book a throwing session!
