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Our new booking system is now live! Having issues? Get in touch >
Axe throwing is one of the fastest-growing entertainment activities in the UK, and at Johnny Throws, we’re proud to lead the way. Whether you’re here for a team night out, a birthday bash, or just looking for a unique new hobby, axe throwing is about to become your favourite stress-busting activity.
But like any great sport, it pays to know the fundamentals. This guide is here to help first-timers get it right from the start—and for returning throwers, it’s a great refresher.
Imagine darts, but with a hunk of steel in your hand, a satisfying thud when it hits the board, and full-body engagement from head to toe. Axe throwing is all about precision, rhythm, and control—not brute strength. In fact, it’s as much mental as it is physical.
At Johnny Throws, we specialise in one-handed, single-spin axe throwing. It’s stylish, efficient, and easy to learn with the right coaching.
Let’s break it down.
Stand about 12 feet (3.6m) from the target. The line in the cages is a good place to start.
Place your non-dominant foot slightly forward—if you’re right-handed, that’s your left foot.
Keep your knees slightly bent, feet shoulder-width apart, and weight evenly balanced between your front and back foot.
You should feel grounded but relaxed—like you’re about to bowl, not box.
Hold the axe in your dominant hand only.
Wrap your fingers around the handle, close to the bottom of the shaft for leverage.
It should feel like holding a hammer—not too tight, just firm enough for control.
Make sure the axe head is aligned vertically, and not tilted off-centre. This will help it rotate cleanly.
Raise the axe straight above your throwing shoulder, not over your head.
Your elbow should form a roughly 90-degree angle.
Keep your non-throwing hand loosely at your side or slightly out for balance.
Lean slightly forward as you begin your motion.
Lead with your shoulder, extending your arm in a straight line toward the target.
As your arm comes forward, release the axe just before your arm fully extends—about eye level.
Don’t flick your wrist. Let the axe leave your hand naturally.
Your aim is a single rotation, so the axe lands with the blade embedded, not the handle or the flat.
Pro tip: The release point is the golden key. Release too early, and the axe won’t rotate enough. Too late, and it’ll over-rotate and hit with the handle.
The sweet spot for most players is 3.5 to 4 metres (about 12 feet). Everyone’s throw is slightly different, so we encourage you to experiment.
Start at the line.
Adjust based on how the axe lands.
Small changes—even 10cm forward or back—can make a massive difference in your accuracy.
Axe throwing is 90% muscle memory, 10% mindset.
Don’t overthink it. Relax your grip, take a deep breath, and focus only on the spot you want to hit.
Confidence builds with repetition. Even if your first few throws don’t stick, you’re still building valuable muscle memory.
Axe keeps hitting the board with the handle: You’re releasing too late. Try releasing slightly earlier.
Axe spins too much: You may be standing too far back. Step forward slightly.
Axe under-rotates: Try a bit more follow-through, or step back just a few inches.
Axe wobbles in the air: Check your grip and make sure the axe is aligned straight vertically during your wind-up and release.
Our expert hosts at Johnny Throws are there to help, so don’t be afraid to ask!
Projected targets and seven exciting axe games
Beginner-friendly coaching in every session
Build-your-own party bundles (yes, you can add Johnny Dough’s pizza)
Fully licensed bar for a drink before or after you throw
Friendly, knowledgeable staff and a great social atmosphere
Book your session and see if you’ve got what it takes. Your inner axe-throwing champion is only a few throws away.
