Your Axe Throwing Beginner’s Guide

003-EM1X0046-12-03-2022-Game of Throwing-Nick Pearce Photography & Film-

Your Axe Throwing Beginner’s Guide

Thinking of trying your hand at axe throwing in Plymouth? We’ve got you covered! We’ll teach you everything you need to know once you’ve arrived at TimberVault, but here’s your beginner’s preparation guide!

TimberVault Axe Throwing in Plymouth

Here at TimberVault, we offer fun, safe axe throwing in Plymouth! We want your experience to be as enjoyable as possible, but that doesn’t come without rules! Your instructor will provide you with all of the information you need in your briefing and demonstration, but here are some of the basics:

  • It might seem obvious, but don’t touch the blade!
  • Only one person should stand in the throwing lane at once
  • Don’t step over the line when throwing your axes
  • When collecting your axes, remove the axes from the board before collecting any from the floor
  • Have fun! 

Any more questions? Our instructors will be on-hand throughout your visit to answer any queries you might have!

The Two-Handed Throw

This method is best for beginners, so get this technique nailed before you move on to some more advanced throws! Your first goal: get the axe into the target. Let’s take a look at the beginner’s technique:

Step one: grip the axe

Place your dominant hand at the base of the axe, about a centimetre from the bottom of the handle. Cover your dominant hand with the palm of your other hand, crossing your thumbs to form an ‘X’ on the back of the handle. Make sure you’re holding the axe directly upright. Remember to relax your grip!

Step two: perfect your stance

For indoor axe throwing, it’s best to stand directly opposite your target. Step forward with your non-dominant foot, shifting your weight forward as you throw. The blade should be aimed toward the target. 

Step three: throw the axe

Once you’ve solidified your grip and stance, it’s time to throw the axe. Shift your weight backwards onto your dominant foot, while bringing the axe over your head to rest between your shoulder blades. Once you’re ready, shift your weight forward onto your non-dominant foot, bringing the axe back over your head. 

Release the axe with both hands once your arms are extended, roughly when your wrists reach your forehead. Follow through the movement with your arms even after you’ve released the axe! 

There you have it! You’re ready to throw your first axe! 

The One-Handed Throw

Want to try a more advanced throw? We also permit one-handed throws when axe-throwing in Plymouth. This technique is more difficult than a two-handed throw, so don’t worry if it takes longer to get to grips with! 

Step one: hold the axe

Again, you need to perfect your grip before throwing the axe. Hold the axe towards the middle-bottom of the handle with your dominant hand. Make sure your grip is relaxed and ready to release to axe when necessary. 

Step two: position the axe

Your foot stance should remain the same as in your two-handed throws. Make sure you’re facing the target. Slowly bring the axe backwards past your ear, almost resting it on your shoulder. 

Step three: release it!

Swing your arm towards the target, again, shifting your weight from your back foot to your front foot. Release the axe once your arm is extended towards the target. You’ll need a bit more power for this one! 

You might need a bit more practice to perfect the one-handed throw, but we know you can do it!

What’s the score?

Whether you’re competitive or not, it’s a good idea to keep track of your scores. Depending on where your axe lands, your score will be different. The scores are as follows:

  • 1 point for the 5th ring
  • 2 points for the 4th ring
  • 3 points for the 3rd ring
  • 4 points for the 2nd ring
  • 6 points for the bullseye
  • 8 points for the Killshot

‘Killshots’ are marked out on the board, in the top left and right (as shown on the diagram below). 

You must state which Killshot you’re aiming for before throwing your axe for the points to count. If you then miss the Killshot, your score for that throw will be 0. 

Think you’re ready? Come on down to TimberVault to try axe throwing in Plymouth! Visit us at Timbervault Plymouth, 12 Derrys Cross, Plymouth, PL1 2TE. Book online via our website, or give us a call on 01752 218297. 

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