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History of Axe-Throwing: What It Looks Like Back Then to Now

Axe-throwing is quickly becoming a hot trend in sports bars as this thrilling activity provides excitement and friendly competition for families, friends, and even co-workers. Despite everything that could go wrong when chucking a large, pointy axe, it’s a safe trend that proves to be the most prevalent family-friendly sports these days.

While the popularity of axe-throwing is skyrocketing, axes have been valuable to mankind for thousands of years, and it goes beyond launching at a target. You’d be surprised that the first hand-axe was used without a handle – it was only later in the years before it was given its iconic, wooden handle.

Evolution of the Axe

Evolution of the Axe

Axes are one of the oldest tools of men and were a hot commodity way back to a time where the Vikings reigned supreme. As mentioned above, the original stone axes didn’t have handles, but modern creations have given it different types of handles – from wood, steel, and more. Some of the best axes that are go-to choices in the sport of modern axe-throwing include the following:

  • Hatchet – the best type of axe for beginners, this is a lightweight axe with a design that is meant for easy gripping. It has a short handle, while the back of the axe has a hammer that makes it look like a hatchet.
  • Tomahawk – inspired by the single-handed axes from North America, tomahawks were once the weapons used by the earlier men for hunting purposes. It was later traded to the Europian colonials, and now, it has found itself a perennial favourite among axe-throwing bars in multiple states.
  • Splitting Axes – this is the most iconic type as it is often seen in media. The design is simple with a straightforward, sharp edge designed to cut a wooden log in two halves in one fell swoop.

Choosing the Best Throwing Axes For Beginners

Choosing the Best Throwing Axes For Beginners

Each state and organizations follow different rules and requirements, especially when it comes to competitive axe-throwing matches. Nonetheless, the best throwing axes for rookies is to try their hand at the standard axe, often the hatchet. The requirements for the hatchet should include the following:

  • The axe head should weight up to two pounds at the maximum.
  • The handle can be made from wood, steel, or plastic.
  • The standard length of axes for beginners should be at least 12 inches in the eye of the blade.
  • As for the blade length, it should reach 4.75 inches at the maximum.

This follows the set requirements from the World Axe Throwing Federation venues. Meanwhile, the National Axe Throwing Federation venues require the following:

  • The axe head should weigh between 1.25 to 1.75 pounds.
  • The axe handle must only be made from wood.
  • The length must reach at least 13 inches in the eye of the blade.
  • The blade length should be 4 inches at the maximum.

The Bottom Line

Gone are the days where axe-throwing was seen as a lumberjack’s sport – nowadays, it’s a bone fide leisure activity that families and friends of all ages can get their hands on. With that in mind, the guide above should help you learn a quick history of axe-throwing and the best axe to use for beginners.

If you’re looking to have an axe-throwing session in Vancouver, get in touch with us today to book – Now is the time to start throwing!

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