“SOME call it ‘big darts’, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.”
Axe throwing is a sport that is played both competitively and socially, and a common misconception is that it’s all about power, but there is a lot more too it
The target is usually made of soft wood so the axe can stick when it lands. It has several rings, like an archery target. The outer rings are worth fewer points, and the score increases toward the centre.
A standard match in the ITAF (International Axe Throwing Federation) has three rounds, with each of those rounds consisting of five throws per player and the players must win two out of the three rounds to win the match.
Using ITAF rules, one point is given to the thrower for landing the axe in the outer ring of the target. There are three points up for grabs for the second ring.
Right in the middle, is the bullseye, which gives the highest regular score of five. In some competitions, there are also small “clutch” spots near the top corners of the target. These are worth extra points (eight) but can only be attempted at certain times, and the attempt must be declared before the throw.
In most competitions, the throw is taken from a fixed distance, usually around 12 to 15 feet away from the target. This distance is important because it allows the axe to rotate properly in the air. A good throw typically involves one full rotation before hitting the target. If the rotation is off, the axe might not stick at all.
Players must use regulated axes. They are usually single-bladed with a straight handle, designed for balance and control rather than power. Even though it may seem like strength would matter most, accuracy and technique are far more important.
Safety is a key part of the sport. Only one competitor throws at a time in a lane, and axes are only collected after all throws are finished. This keeps the environment controlled and reduces risk.
Our correspondents, Patrick FitzGerald, Zac Jackson, Sam Morley & Josh Cole explored Axeology, an axe throwing studio in Southampton, which have adapted rules and targets to make the game more socially fun for beginners but keeping the main principles of axe throwing.
CLICK HERE to watch the full package.
