It is safe to say that if you were to ask 100 people what they know about axe throwing the majority would likely mention either native Indians as depicted (unfairly) in old western movies or a blood soaked horror movie from the 1980s or 90s. Whilst it is certainly possible that axes were used in those types of movies, today axe throwing is not only a hugely popular pastime but also a competitive sport.

It may surprise many of you reading this that throwing axes is something which people do for fun, and possibly more surprising to you that it is played competitively with leagues and competitions taking place in just about every continent. There is even a world axe throwing championship which started in 2017 and sees competitors from all around the world take part.

Now, unless you are already an axe throwing expert, we assume those world championships are not in your thoughts, but perhaps you might want to learn more about axe throwing and why its appeal is growing.

We have no doubt that axes have been thrown for centuries, and there will undoubtedly have been some competitive throwers going back many decades, however, it was only in 2006, that a properly organised competition was arranged. The first was the Backyard Axe Throwing League in Canada.

From then its popularity spread tremendously across Canada and the USA, and we have a situation today where there are literally hundreds of venues across the world where axe throwing takes place. These can be found in countries such as Thailand, the Netherlands, France the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland, to name but a few.

Generally, axe throwing venues are based on the same principle as bowling alleys whereby there are lanes for throwing, seats to watch and keep score, plus bars, cafes, and restaurants for food and drink. This makes them popular for family days out, stag nights, parties and team building activities.

Axe throwing is a game of skill whereby the competitors throw their axe at a wooden board which has a round target drawn on it. The objective is scoring as many points as you can with the target split into circular zones which each have a different score if the axe hits that zone. The closer to the centre of the target the axe hits, the more points that are scored.

Rules are fairly basic with the most obvious one being similar to ten-pin bowling whereby your foot cannot cross the throwing line until your axe hits the target. If it does cross, it means zero points. Another rule is no one is allowed to be near or behind the target for obvious safety reasons, given that an axe is still extremely dangerous even if it is being used within a sporting context.

Tips for axe throwing include:

• Ensure no one is in front of you or near the target before you throw
• Ensure the tip of your axe is extremely sharp to ensure it sticks in the wooden target
• Keep your stance solid and balanced
• As you throw move your body towards the target
• Keep your grip consistent for every throw for better release

Even if you do not plan to become an axe throwing world champion, as a pastime it is tremendous fun, and appeals to all age groups. It is also fast becoming a popular and exciting team building activity so if you run a business or organisation consider axe throwing rather than the usual bowling alley or scavenger hunt.