Axe Throwing Tips for Beginners: Master Your Throw Like a Pro!

Sunil Jasta
Nov 11
3 min read

Axe throwing has quickly become one of the most exciting recreational activities for thrill-seekers, friends, and corporate teams alike.

Whether you’re visiting an axe throwing venue for the first time or looking to improve your skills, learning the right axe throwing techniques can make a huge difference in your accuracy, safety, and overall fun.

In this blog, we’ll cover essential axe throwing tips for beginners and intermediate players to help you throw with confidence and precision.

1. Choose the Right Axe

The first step to a successful throw is using the right axe. Most venues provide standard throwing axes that are lightweight and balanced.

If you plan to buy your own, choose one with a handle length of 12–16 inches and a sharp but safe blade.

Pro Tip: The handle should feel comfortable in your grip — not too heavy or too light. A balanced axe improves your accuracy and rotation control.

2. Perfect Your Stance and Grip

Your stance sets the foundation for your throw.

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Place your dominant foot slightly behind the other.
Keep your body straight, with your eyes locked on the bullseye.

When gripping the axe:

Hold it firmly but not too tight.
Use both hands like you would hold a baseball bat if you’re a beginner.
For one-handed throws, grip from the bottom of the handle.

3. Focus on Rotation and Distance

The key to hitting the target is controlling how much your axe rotates before it strikes.

Most throwers stand about 12–15 feet from the target.

If the axe hits handle first, move a step closer.
If it hits blade down, move slightly back.

It takes practice, but once you find your ideal throwing distance, you’ll notice a big improvement in your throws.

4. Use Proper Throwing Technique

Here’s a simple method for a two-handed throw:

Hold the axe directly over your head.
Keep your elbows straight and your core tight.
Take a deep breath, step forward with your lead foot, and bring the axe forward in one smooth motion.
Release when your hands are at eye level.

Avoid flicking your wrists — the axe should spin naturally from your motion.

5. Prioritize Safety at All Times

Axe throwing is incredibly fun, but safety is crucial. Always:

Make sure no one is standing near the target area.
Retrieve your axe only after everyone has thrown.
Wear closed-toe shoes.
Follow your venue’s instructor’s safety rules closely.

Remember: A safe thrower is a confident thrower.

6. Practice Makes Perfect

Like any skill, axe throwing takes practice. Start with short-distance throws and focus on hitting the target consistently.

Gradually increase your distance and experiment with different throwing styles.

Most axe throwing venues, like Axeology, offer coaching sessions use them to refine your technique and get pro tips.

7. Learn from Each Throw

After each throw, take a second to evaluate:

Did the axe stick properly?
Was your rotation too much or too little?
Were your feet aligned?

Making small adjustments after each throw helps you improve quickly. Keep your throws consistent and focus on one variable at a time (stance, distance, release).

8. Have Fun and Compete!

Once you’re confident in your throws, challenge your friends or join a local league.

Axe throwing is not only about precision but also about enjoyment and stress relief. Compete, cheer each other on, and celebrate those satisfying bullseye hits!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re just starting or aiming to become an expert, these axe throwing tips will help you throw more accurately, safely, and confidently.

Remember, every great thrower started as a beginner — so don’t rush it.

Next time you visit your local axe throwing spot, keep these techniques in mind, and you’ll be sticking bullseyes in no time!