Ever wonder how to throw an axe? Maybe you want to impress your friends. Maybe you’ve always wanted to be like the warriors you’ve seen in the movies. Perhaps you feel like it’d be a cool skill to have.
Whatever your reason, knowing how to throw an axe is just plain awesome. So if you want to get started and learn how to throw an axe in four simple steps, then you’ve come to the right place.
Continue reading to learn how to throw an axe in four easy steps!
Step 1: Keep It Safe
It goes without saying that axe throwing can be a dangerous sport if not done correctly or safely. So it’s worth mentioning that you should always check your surroundings before every throw.
Make sure there aren’t people nearby, both in front and behind you. Never throw an axe while someone is near or walking towards the target. Always wait for everyone to finish throwing before going to retrieve your axe.
Your axe should be sharpened so that it will stick easily to the target. This is safer to those around you since it is less likely to ricochet off of the target and hurt someone. However, this also means you should never touch the blade with your fingers or you could end up in stitches.
Step 2: Choose Your Axe
For beginners, it’s recommended to practice with a small hatchet. When using a full-size axe, you’re going to need to step further away from the target so it can do a full rotation before hitting the target.
There are certain standards that axes must comply with when participating in the World Axe Throwing League (WATL). The size and length of the axe’s shaft are what determines how far you will have to stand away from the target.
You may be surprised how quickly you become hooked to the sport! You may even find yourself collecting different axes and hatchets. Clutch Axes is a great resource for staying informed on everything related to axe throwing.
Step 3: Get a Grip
When you are holding your axe it’s important to have a firm grip on the handle. Your grip should be similar to a baseball bat. Always keep the head of the axe straight and perpendicular to your target.
Any rotation to the head of the axe will make it less likely to hit and stick into the target. That’s why it is essential that you keep the blade straight throughout the entire throw.
You will want to grip the axe handle with your dominant hand, while the supporting hand is around your knuckles.
Step 4: Axe Throwing Techniques
There are two ways to throw an axe. The first is an overhand throw that is a good start if you are a beginner.
Start by leaning forward, your arms should be fully extended and no bend in your elbows for this starting position. Next, bring your axe or hatchet over your head. Lean back slightly with the axe between your shoulder blades. Your axe head should be in-line with your spine.
You should be rocking from your toes to the back of your heels. Do not lift your lead foot off the ground. You will be using this foot to step into your throw and gain momentum.
As you bring the axe forward in one fast motion, bring the axe back to your starting point. Your release point is where you were aiming in the starting position.
Do not flick your wrist. Instead, simply release the axe by opening your hands. Follow through by allowing your hands to fling to your side.
To prevent yourself from falling forward, you will take a step with your other foot forward. Commit completely to this diving motion towards the target.
How to Throw An Axe with Finesse
Axe throwing requires technique and a lot of practice. It isn’t about brute force or trying to throw it as hard as you can. Having finesse and speed is more important than being super strong.
Now that you know how to throw an axe, you may want to learn about even more exciting ways to pass the time. Check out the rest of our blog for more must-see information.
