Someone throwing an axe

Axe Throwing Rules and Tips for Beginners: What to Expect When Axe Throwing For The First Time

Heber HatchetsHeber's Man Blog

Axe throwing is a unique activity that will impress your next date or shake your activity group out of its usual rut of grabbing dinner or watching a movie. It’s an exciting, affordable, and even competitive experience that anyone ages eleven and up can enjoy.

When you join us at Heber Hatchets, it helps to know the rules and have a few details cleared up. We’ll tell you everything you need to know about axe throwing for beginners or for experienced lumberjacks.

Axe Throwing Rules

Axe throwing is fun and completely safe, but like other less cool activities, there are rules everyone participating has to follow. Axe throwing rules maintain a safe environment and keep the fun going!

Rule 1: Wear Closed Toe Shoes

While axe throwing is safe, there are real sharp axes around! Closed-toe shoes add an extra layer of protection just in case. Read below for more tips on how to dress for axe throwing. 

Rule 2: Listen Up

When you and your group get to Heber Hatchets, an employee will walk you through the whole process. This is the most important part of the night! Be respectful to their time, and listen to their advice. It will keep you safe and can even give you a leg up in the games.

Rule 3: Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Before you throw, double-check your surroundings. Do not throw the axe until you have confirmed that there is no one between you and the target or behind you. 

If you are not the one throwing, still keep an eye out. Making sure everyone is in a safe zone before the axes fly ensures a safe experience. 

Rule 4: Have Fun

If you have never thrown an axe before, you are in for a treat! There is nothing quite like it. Enjoy this unique sport and compete with your group in the games. 

Axe Throwing Tips for Beginners

Axe throwing is an art form that we can help you master! Impress your group with these axe throwing tips for beginners. 

Get the Perfect Grip

It might feel counterintuitive, but loosen your grip on the axe! A relaxed grip makes it easier to release the axe at just the right moment. 

Throwing an axe is an art form; don’t hold it with a death grip, but don’t let it slip away either. Think of it like swinging a golf club. Give the axe handle a little room to breathe. 

Release the Axe at Eye Level

Keep your eyes on the target, and release the axe as it gets to eye level. You’ll hit the target (or at least get pretty close) every time. 

Don’t Be Afraid to Try Different Methods

Most axe throwing beginners will throw using two hands overhead, like a soccer throw. This is a great method to start throwing, as it’s comfortable and fairly controllable. Once you have mastered the two-hand overhand throw, try using one hand. You might surprise yourself and win the lumberjack games!

What to Wear When Axe Throwing

At Heber Hatchets, we always recommend that our customers come dressed in a way that’s comfortable for them. When throwing axes and taking names, you’ll be twisting and bending. Dress in clothing that doesn’t restrict your movement in any way. 

Want to test out your shirt for axe throwing? Test out an overhand throw wearing the shirt you are considering. If you can’t make that motion? It’s out. You will want a full range of motion.

If you are ax throwing, you must wear closed-toe shoes to enter the bays. Without them, you will have to downgrade to spectator status. Our axes are sharp so keep your toes protected by wearing shoes that cover your toes. 

Once your toes are hidden from the world, consider the comfort of the shoes. Your heels, ballet flats, or oxfords might cover your toes, but aren’t the most supportive for taking an axe throwing stance. Flat boots or athletic shoes are best.

For an optimal axe throwing experience, you will need to wear closed-toe, ideally athletic shoes, and a shirt that allows a full range of motion. And hey, don’t forget: lumberjacks wear flannel. 

How to Register for Axe Throwing at Heber Hatchets

Now that you have your outfit and your strategy for the lumberjack games, let’s get you registered at Heber Hatchets. 

All participants must sign a waiver, which you can print in advance here. Under 18s will need a parent or guardian to sign for them. 

Bring your waivers already filled out so you can get throwing right away.

Registering Small Groups

Heber Hatchets does not accept reservations for groups of three and smaller, but walk-ins are available. Call or text ahead to check availability.

Registering Groups of Four and Up

Groups of four and larger are able to make reservations at Heber Hatchets. Call ahead or book on our website. Select the number of people coming to ensure you get the correct number of bays for your group.

Have more than ten people? Call ahead so we can put you on the schedule. 

Any Other Questions?

If you still have questions, check out our FAQ or contact us

Let’s Get Axe Throwing

Axe throwing is a great way to spend time with friends, family, or coworkers! Even beginners can enjoy our lumberjack games and friendly atmosphere. Try a new sport and make new memories at Heber Hatchets.