First Time Axe Throwing? 7 Tips to Stick Your First Axe!

So you booked your first axe throwing session. Maybe it’s a birthday, a date night, or your coworkers dared you. Good news: you don’t need to be strong or athletic to stick an axe. You just need a little technique, and our coaches will walk you through it.

Here are 7 tips to get you sticking axes fast.

1. Wear closed-toe shoes. Closed-toe shoes are required in the range. Forgot yours? We rent shoes (socks included) for $6.

2. Get your stance right. Stand with feet about shoulder-width apart, facing the target. Put your dominant foot forward and keep your weight balanced.

3. Grip it like you mean it (but not too tight) Firm Hammer grip with your dominant hand on top, no white knuckles!

4. Smooth beats strong. The axe does the work. Bring it back overhead, take one smooth step toward the target, and let go as your arms extend. Hard throws bounce off. Easy throws stick.

5. Follow through. Keep your arms moving toward the target after you release at eye level, like you’re pointing at the bullseye. Stopping short is the number one reason axes fall.

6. Bounced? Move a half step. If the axe keeps bouncing, don’t throw harder. Ask your coach to watch a couple of throws. Often the fix is just stepping a little closer or farther back.

7. Change one thing at a time. Once you stick one, repeat it exactly. If you miss, adjust only one thing (stance, release, or distance) so you know what worked.

Bonus: have fun with it. Cheer for your friends, trash-talk (nicely), and play the games on your lane. The best throwers are usually the ones laughing the most.

Ready to throw? Book your session at axerepublic.com. Walk-ins are welcome when lanes are open, ages 10 and up can throw, and our coaches will have you sticking axes in minutes. We’re at 4919 Courthouse St in Williamsburg.