• Prior to throwing your axe, you’ll want to ensure that the area around you is clear of other players. Don’t throw your axe while someone is near the target or walking towards the target to collect their axe. You will want to have a minimum of a 6-foot radius surrounding you that is clear of other players. Keep a “throw together, retrieve together” mindset when playing. Everyone should throw their axes, and then everyone should approach the board at the same time to retrieve their axes.
• Before throwing your axe, be sure to sharpen it. This not only helps it to stick to the target easier, it also lessens potential of causing a dangerous throw to players around you. After sharpening your axe, DO NOT touch the blade directly, to avoid slicing your fingers. As a general rule, the sharper and thinner the profile of your axe, the more readily it will stick to your target.
• When throwing your axe, you’ll want to ensure you have a firm grip on it. This is similar to a grip on a baseball bat. Keep the head of your axe as straight to the target as possible to prevent it from flying sideways.
1. Two-handed throw over the head. (Better for beginners). Grip the axe with both hands, bringing your axe back over your head. This is much like throwing a soccer ball. We recommend keeping a lighter grip on the axe with two fists (like when holding a golf club). The harder you grip onto the axe, the more it will become difficult when you need to release while also keeping the axe straight. Next, bring your arms and axe forward and release once your hands line up with where you want to throw, at eye level. Don’t use any wrist motion or try to guide the axe throw with your fingers. Just release the axe and let it follow its path to the target.
2. One-handed throw over the shoulder. (More advanced). To start, you should line up your right shoulder and foot (or left shoulder and foot) with the target’s bullseye. This is similar to a game of darts. To begin, swing your axe beside your leg and use that momentum to bring up the axe up past the ear of the throwing hand. Release the axe once your throwing arm is parallel to the floor. When throwing the axe using the one-handed throw, upon release, don’t use any wrist motion or attempt to guide the throw with your fingers. Just release the grip on your axe and allow its momentum to throw it forward.
Tip: If you find that you’re dropping your axe frequently and you’re using the one-handed throw technique, try switching to the two-hand method to gain more power in your throws.
