There are fewer fun games you can play with your friends and family than axe throwing. Also, If you’re an axe enthusiast, you want going pro in axe throwing.

Then you must comply with the sport’s governing bodies’ regulations.

So what is the best axe for throwing, and what are some rules you must adhere to? 

Our article will answer the above queries while elaborating on other critical axe-throwing details.  

Official Competition Throwing Axes

Throwing an axe at a target. 

Two organizations manage axe throwing as a sport in the US, each with its respective regulations.

National Axe Throwing Federation rules(NATF)

1. The ideal axe weight is 1.25 to 1.75 pounds, and the axe should have a wooden handle. 
2. The axe length (from the handle edge to the axehead) should be at least 13 inches. 
3. Lastly, the axe blade length would have a maximum of 4 inches. 

World Axe Throwing Federation(WATF)

1. The axe handle can be of a wide range of materials (fiberglass, wood, or steel). 
2. Your axe’s head should also not exceed 2 pounds.  
3. Thirdly, the ideal axe length (from the handle edge to the eye) should be a minimum of 12 inches. 
4. The axe blade length should be a maximum of 4.7 inches. 

Best WATF Throwing Axes

A girl is competing in an ax-throwing competition. 

If you want to be an ax-throwing pro, here are the top axes that should be on your bucket list. 

World Axe Throwing League Competition Thrower

It’s the best axe for competition, thanks to its relatively thin profile that makes it easy to hold and hurl.

The axe also has a sharp blade which is important in sticking easily onto the target. Other key advantages of the axe include the following:

• It has a hickory handle (hardwood) which is long-lasting and well-balanced. 
• The axe’s handle is approximately 16 inches long, slightly longer than an ideal throwing. Thus, you can cut it to your ideal axe handle length. 

Disadvantages 

• It is a specificity axe primarily for axe throwing and may not be too helpful for other applications. 

SOG Survival Tomahawk

It’s a Tomahawk with some of the best axe-throwing features that include the following:

• It’s a lightweight axe (thus ideal for beginner axe throwers) that is also durable. 
• The axe features a full tang axehead (Merged handle’s core and axehead), which improves its resilience and makes it less prone to breaking. 
• It also has a thin profile than most small axes for easy sticking onto the wood target. 

Estwing Sportsman’s Axe

The primary feature of the axe is its tang steelhead and short handle with a leather grip. It’s quite miniature than the SOG Survival Tomahawk yet heavier making it ideal for throwers who prefer a heavy axe. 

Disadvantages

• Some users feel the axe is too small for their liking. 
• It is also quite pricey for a small axe of its size. 

CRKT Chogan Tomahawk

It features a remarkable 1055 carbon steel head, while its handle is also quite durable (made from Tennessee Hickory). 

Advantages

• The axe also comes with a warranty from the manufacturer, which indicates the axe’s excellent quality. 
• Furthermore, the tomahawk has a variety of applications. Other than throwing, you can use it to drive in wooden pegs or split firewood. 
• It’s, therefore, an ideal camping tool. You can also easily carry the axe around as it has a detachable head. 

Disadvantages 

• It is pricey. 

Husqvarna 13-Inch Wooden Hatchet

The hatchet is small but is quite hefty (heavy) for its size, making it fit for throwing competitions.

It is also a quality axe from Husquarvana, a renowned company for its high-quality tools. 

Moreover, the axe is affordable, has a wooden handle, and its dimensions are within NATF regulations. 

Disadvantages 

• The axe is small yet too pricey (starting from $72). 

FAQs

What is the Difference Between a Throwing Axe and Regular Axes?

A throwing axe is a hatchet or other small, lightweight axes with versatile applications.

On the other hand, regular axes (felling and splitting axes) are larger and weigh quite a lot. Hence, regular axes are not fit for throwing. 

Should I sharpen my throwing axe?

It is important to sharpen your throwing axes because a blunt one will not stick to the wood target as it should. Hence, always sharpen your throwing axes, preferably to be sharp enough for shaving for a great working experience. 

You can use a whetstone, file, or any other axe-sharpening tool. 

Conclusion

Axes throwing is one of the most enjoyable sports. But, primarily, you must ensure the ideal axe to enjoy the fun that comes with the sport.

Also, it is important to acclimatize yourself to the rules of the respective axe-throwing competition you’re participating.

If you want to learn more about ax throwing, contact us.