One of the very first—and most asked—questions we hear from new throwers is: “How do I throw an axe so it actually sticks?” It’s the heart of axe play, the moment when wood meets steel, and every thrower wants that satisfying thwack in the target. What happens when you throw at Axe Play for the first time?
Here’s your step-by-step (and fun) guide to launching your first axe and rooting for it to stick—Axe Play style.
🪓 1. Grip it like a legend
Hold the axe handle like you’d hold a something important: firm but not rigid.
If you’re using two hands, the non-dominant hand covers your dominant hand loosely. Your dominant hand should be wrapping around the bottom of the handle.
If you prefer one-handed throws, grip at the bottom of the handle so you have maximum leverage and control.
Don’t choke up too high—or the axe won’t spin right and might bounce.
🪓 2. Stance: Eyes on the prize
For one hand throwing – Stand with your dominant foot forward, pointing toward the target. Your non dominant foot is slightly back, giving balance and room to swing. Think of it as stepping into a lumberjack power pose. Keep your body square-ish: don’t twist your core too much or you’ll lose control.
For two handed throwing – Stand with both feet even with your toes on the throw line and your hips square to the target.
🪓 3. Raise, launch, release
One handed throwing – Raise the axe to the side of your head and slightly behind your shoulder.
- Two handed throwing- Bring the axe slightly behind your head (sharp side up please) in one fluid motion.
Your arm swings forward; at the top of the arc (when your hand is pointing at the target), release the axe.
Timing is everything: you want the axe to rotate exactly one and one half times in flight so the blade comes down sharp and sticks in the wood.
If you release too early, the axe may under-rotate (blade hits flat). Too late — it might over-rotate (handle hits). Practice helps you sync that release.
🪓 4. Distance matters
To get that perfect one and one half-rotation flight, your throwing distance is critical. Many venues use around 12 feet from throw line to board, though that can vary by league rules. Wikipedia+1
Too close — the axe won’t spin enough. Too far — it might spin twice and bounce or glance off. Use chalk or tape to mark your sweet spot and adjust based on your axe type.
🪓 5. Let the coaching begin
At Axe Play, we always start with a quick safety brief and orientation (around 5 minutes) to walk you through grip, stance, mechanics, and safety. Many throwers hit the target in their first few throws—sometimes surprisingly fast with the right guidance.
Across the industry, that pattern holds: venues report that basic axe throwing is “surprisingly easy for beginners” with proper instruction. Stumpy\’s Hatchet House
During your session, our coaches will watch your form and fine-tune your release, angle, and even foot placement. Small tweaks often yield big gains
🪓 6. Common misfires & fixes
Oops, no stick! If the blade just hits and falls, you probably under-rotated. Step back a foot or release a little later.
It bounces off! That suggests over-rotation—move closer or release earlier.
It wobbles midair. Your grip or release is shaky. Relax your wrists and let the axe do the work.
It twists sideways. Your alignment was off; ensure you’re facing the target squarely when you throw.
🪓 7. Aim & scores: Where to strike
Most target boards have colored rings. The bullseye is the center circle—stick it dead center and you’re a hero. Outside rings offer descending points. In some leagues (like WATL or IATF), “clutch” or “extra” zones are possible bonus shots. Wikipedia+1
During casual play at Axe Play, we’ll let you try different games (Cricket, “Around the World,” etc.) so you can practice precision, angle, and strategy.
🪓 8. Safety always comes first
No wild swingers, no dropped axes, no tossing it sideways toward people.
We’ll review safety rules together.
Stay behind the throwing line until all axes have landed.
Our axes have a thin profile so they stick easier and don’t need to be razor sharp for safety.
And DO NOT stick your foot out to try and stop an axe.
And our staff watches every session—not just to coach your throw, but to keep everyone safe and confident.
🪓 9. Practice. Adjust. Throw more.
Axe throwing is part technique, part muscle memory. The more you throw, the more your body “remembers” the right timing, release, and feel.
Even our league members and pros tweak their form session to session.
So there you have it: the core answer to the most-asked question. At Axe Play, we call this your Bullseye Blast-Off — that moment when everything clicks, and you send your first axe flying straight into the target.
Aim. Launch. THWACK!
🎯 Frequently Asked Questions
Got Questions? We’ve Got the Axe-swers. 🔥
Whether it’s your first throw or your hundredth bullseye, our guests always have a few quick questions before they start. From how to throw an axe like a pro to what to wear, here are the top Axe Play FAQs straight from our Axe-perts.
🪓 1. How do you throw an axe so it sticks?
🪓 2. Is axe throwing safe for beginners?
Start with a firm hammer-style grip and square your stance with your non-throwing foot forward. Bring the axe up over your head, then release when your hand points at the target so it makes one clean rotation. If it doesn’t stick, our Axe Play coaches will help you fine-tune your distance and timing until you hear that satisfying THWACK!
Absolutely! Every session at Axe Play begins with a quick safety walkthrough. Our trained Axe-perts guide you through grip, stance, and release so you can throw confidently. Each lane is fully enclosed and supervised—safe, simple, and tons of fun for all skill levels.
🪓 3. What distance do you throw from?
🪓 4. What should I wear to axe throwing?
Most throwers stand about 12 feet from the target for that perfect rotation. Our coaches will help you adjust a few inches forward or back until you find your sweet spot and start sticking every shot.
Keep it comfy and safe! Closed-toe shoes are required (no flip-flops). We recommend comfortable clothes that let you move freely—just leave loose scarves or dangling jewelry at home so nothing interferes with your throw.
🪓 5. Do you offer knife throwing too?
✅ Bonus Pro Tip:
You bet! Axe Play offers knife throwing instruction at no extra charge when it’s available during your session. Our Axe-perts will show you how to switch it up and hit the target like a pro.
Stick around after your session and challenge your crew or ours to a mini-tournament or hit the lounge for a cold drink—you’ve earned it! 🍻