About History
Throwing axes is an activity dating back to the Middle Ages. Whilst originally used for hunting and in battle, axe throwing is also said to be one of the oldest games in existence.
A throwing axe is a weapon used from Antiquity to the Middle Ages by foot soldiers and occasionally by mounted soldiers. Usually, they are thrown in an overhand motion in a manner that causes the axe to rotate as it travels through the air.
Axe throwing is a sport in which the competitor throws an axe at a target, attempting to hit the bullseye as near as possible like that of the archery. Axe throwing is an event held in most lumberjack competitions. A skilled axe thrower will rotate the throwing axe exactly once throughout the flight so that the sharpened edge of the head will penetrate the target.
Although the modern-day axe throwing may look slightly different it still has the same key ideas, involving competitors throwing axes in lanes at a target.
How to play (WATL)
The target has five 4-inch wide concentric circles. The target is placed at the end of a caged lane at a distance of 3.7m (12ft) from the throwing line, which is regarded as the standard.
Points are awarded for each throw based on where the axe lands on the target board.
Points
1 point for the outermost ring
2 points for the 2nd outermost ring
3 points for the 3rd outermost ring
4 points for the 4th outermost ring
5 points for the 5th outermost ring
6 points for the bullseye
There are also many different games that you can play from 21 where the first team or individual who get to 21 wins
Who can play?
Axe Throwing can be enjoyed by anyone who likes throwing things! We start everyone with a two-handed throw for simplicity. While this may not seem “natural”, it is the easiest to learn. Just like learning to throw a cricket ball, what comes naturally isn’t necessarily the best way to throw. Once everyone can stick the axe, you can compete against each other.
AXE THROWING COMMON QUESTIONS
Technique- Games
Coaching will take you through correct throwing techniques one-on-one. We then put your new skills to the test in a tournament, crowing your ultimate Viking champion!
The axes we most commonly use weigh in at approximately 1.25kgs, however we also have lighter axes available.
Our axe-perts will provide you with training and demonstrate correct throwing technique. We’ll then supervise you for some practice throws to tweak your technique. Your axe-pert then continues to call games & give advice throughout the session.
Throwing axes with us is safer than crossing the road. Throwers are always supervised, one axe-pert is watching & providing feedback for a pair of throwers. We have a thorough safety & induction process and an impeccable safety record
Ages 12+ are welcome to throw- minors must have a participating parent or guardian for every three people under the age of 18.
Axe throwing is an activity that can be enjoyed by all. Our staff take an individualised approach to training, working with you to make sure the movement works for your body. We have taught people with all types of physicality & physical limitations how to throw an axe.
It is a physical activity, it might not be suitable for people with some medical conditions (please consult your doctor if you’re uncertain).
Anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol will not be permitted to throw, and may be asked to leave the premises.
We host mixed-group sessions Wed-Mon, which are perfect for the solo thrower! We also offer a league & regularly run special events. Bookings are always recommended.
We work each day to prove that anyone can throw an axe, and accessibility is an active consideration in our venues
– Different axes are available for people with different physical abilities, axes range in weight from 1 through to 1.5kgs
– Our axe-perts are trained in how to address different physical, emotional and mental needs within our space. We prefer to ask questions rather than making assumptions about how you move and what feels comfortable for you.
Ultimately, our greatest tools are our willingness to learn from our guests about what they need, you’ll always be treated with respect and compassion in our venues.
Yes! Our venue will have accessible entrances!
Close-toed shoes- it’s essential that toes are covered, if you forget we do have gumboots to borrow and socks to purchase.
You can wear anything you feel comfortable in in our venues. We recommend clothing that’s not restrictive, anything you can swing your arms around, raise them over your head. The throwing motion also involves leaning in and lifting your back leg.