New to axe throwing? Learn what to expect at a venue, how to grip and throw an axe, scoring basics, and tips for your first session.
Beginnerschedule7 min read
Axe throwing has gone from a lumberjack pastime to one of the fastest-growing recreational activities in the country. Venues have popped up in every major city, offering a unique mix of competition, socializing, and primal satisfaction.
Whether you're planning a date night, team outing, or just want to try something new, here's everything you need to know before your first throw.
What Is Recreational Axe Throwing?
Modern axe throwing takes place at indoor venues with dedicated lanes, similar to bowling alleys. Each lane has a wooden target mounted on the wall with painted rings for scoring. You throw a hatchet-sized axe from about 12-15 feet away.
Most venues offer walk-in sessions or reservations in 1-2 hour blocks. A trained coach teaches you the basics, supervises safety, and helps improve your technique. No experience is required — venues are designed for complete beginners.
What to Expect at a Venue
When you arrive, you'll sign a waiver, get a brief safety orientation, and be assigned a lane with a coach. The coach demonstrates the throwing technique, then guides you through your first few throws.
Most sessions include time for free throwing plus organized games or mini-tournaments. Many venues also serve food and drinks (including beer and cocktails at some locations). It's a social activity — expect to cheer, laugh, and compete with your group.
How to Throw an Axe
The basic overhand throw is what most beginners learn:
1. Grip: Hold the axe at the bottom of the handle with both hands, like a baseball bat. Don't squeeze too hard — a relaxed grip is more accurate.
2. Stance: Stand facing the target with your dominant foot slightly forward. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart.
3. Windup: Bring the axe straight back over your head, keeping your arms relatively straight. Don't twist your body.
4. Release: Swing forward smoothly and release when your arms are extended toward the target — roughly at eye level. Let the axe roll off your fingers naturally. Don't flick your wrists.
5. Follow through: Your hands should finish pointing at the target after release, like you're reaching for it.
The axe should rotate once in the air and stick in the target blade-first. Distance determines rotation — if you're bouncing off, adjust your distance forward or back by half a step.
Scoring Basics
Most venues use the World Axe Throwing League (WATL) target:
- Bullseye (center): 6 points
- Inner ring: 4 points
- Middle ring: 3 points
- Outer ring: 2 points
- Outermost ring: 1 point
- Blue dots (kill shots): 8 points — two small blue circles in the upper corners, typically only available on the final throw of a round
The axe must stick in the target to score. If it falls out, it's zero points. Games are usually played in rounds of 5-10 throws per player.
lightbulbPro Tips
check_circleWear closed-toe shoes — most venues require them for safety
check_circleIf the axe is bouncing off the target, step forward 6 inches — you're probably over-rotating
check_circleFocus on one spot on the target and throw toward it consistently before trying to adjust
check_circleBook at least a 1-hour session — the first 20 minutes are learning, and you'll want time to actually compete
helpFrequently Asked Questions
How old do you have to be to throw axes?
Most venues require throwers to be at least 18, or 12-16 with a parent or guardian present. Age requirements vary by location, so check with the specific venue before booking.
How much does axe throwing cost?
Sessions typically cost $20-35 per person for one hour, or $30-50 for two hours. Group rates and event packages (bachelor parties, team building) are usually available at a discount per person.
Do I need to be strong to throw an axe?
No. Axe throwing is about technique, not strength. The hatchets used at venues typically weigh 1.5-2 pounds — light enough for anyone to throw. Accuracy comes from consistent form, not power.
Ready to throw?
Find an axe throwing venue near you and book your first lane.