Axe throwing has taken the world by storm, and 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for both newcomers and seasoned competitors. Whether you’re looking to try axe throwing for the first time or thinking about turning it into a regular hobby, getting started is easier than ever. In this post, we’ll show you how to start axe throwing in 2025, whether you want to hit the lanes at a local venue or practice your skills at home.

Getting Started at a Venue: Find Your Local WATL Affiliate

The easiest way to start axe throwing is by visiting a WATL-affiliated venue. These venues are perfect for beginners, offering everything you need to have a safe, fun, and memorable experience. Here’s why starting at a venue is a great choice:

• Expert Coaching: WATL venues are staffed with coaches who will teach you the fundamentals. You’ll learn how to throw safely and effectively, minimizing frustration and maximizing fun. A lot of WATL affiliated venues also have WATL Certified Coaches who have completed additional training to ensure that you’re learning from the best coaches in the industry.
• State-of-the-Art Equipment: When you go to a WATL venue, you get to use top-quality hatchets and targets through our exclusive Affiliate pricing. Furthermore, many venues have the option to throw big axes. This way you can try each discipline without the need to purchase both a hatchet and a big axe yourself.
• Social Atmosphere: Axe throwing is an incredibly social activity. At a venue, you can enjoy the thrill of the sport with friends, families, or team-building events. Once you catch the axe throwing bug, you can join one of our leagues. WATL also has an online community for throwers, Affiliate owners and Certified Judges. They are a great way to connect with your fellow throwers and stay updated with the axe events around the world.
• Leagues, Tournaments, & Events: Once you’ve got the basics down, many venues host regular leagues and tournaments, so you can keep improving and challenge yourself as you grow more confident.

To find a WATL-affiliated venue near you, simply use our Venue Finder. With hundreds of locations across North America and internationally, you’re bound to find a place where you can start your axe-throwing journey.

Bring Your Own Hatchet

Axe throwing is a precision sport at its core just like golf, darts, billiards and many more sports. If you’re looking to improve in axe throwing, consistency is key. We recommend getting yourself your own hatchet rather than relying on the hatchets that venues have in stock. Affiliates also have access to exclusive pricing on WATL axes and often have them available on-site for testing and purchase. This will allow you to use a higher quality axe that sticks to the board easily, and doesn’t change from practice session to practice session.

The World Axe Throwing League also offers excellent kits designed to help you start axe throwing with top-notch equipment. Kits include essentials such as whetstones, replacement handles, and premium-quality hatchets, ensuring you can enjoy axe throwing for years to come.

Throwing at Home: How to Build Your Own Axe-Throwing Setup

If you want to get some practice before going to a venue, throwing at home is a great option. Here’s how to start:

• Find a Safe Space: Before you start throwing axes, ensure you have a safe and appropriate space. Look for an outdoor area with plenty of room—such as a backyard or large open garage. It’s essential to have enough space to throw safely and avoid any injuries.
• Invest in the Right Equipment: To practice throwing axes at home, you’ll need some basic equipment. The WATL Ultimate Starter Kit is a great option, providing everything you need to begin practicing safely at home. The kit includes a quality hatchet of your choosing, cottonwood target boards, and other essential accessories to start you out. You’ll also find detailed instructions on how to safely set up your practice area.

The WATL Ultimate Starter Kit is available for purchase in the WATL Store. With this kit, you’ll be able to start axe throwing, refine your technique, and have fun without leaving the comfort of your home.

• Safety First: Safety should always be your top priority when you start axe throwing. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully when setting up your target, and never throw an axe when others are anywhere near the target.
• Stay Consistent: Just like any sport, practice is key! Take the time to regularly practice your throws, focusing on your form, aim, and distance. As you improve, you’ll be ready to step up your game at a local venue or even compete in official tournaments. If you’re looking to improve, we have plenty of articles and videos to help!

Joining the World Axe Throwing League Community

Once you’ve started axe throwing and gained confidence in your skills, whether you started at a venue or practiced at home, consider becoming part of the WATL community. The World Axe Throwing League offers a number of opportunities for both casual throwers and those looking to compete:

• Leagues: WATL venues host regular leagues where you can compete against other throwers, track your progress, and work on your skills. Whether you’re looking for a fun way to spend your evenings or want to take your axe throwing to the next level, joining a league is an excellent way to stay motivated. Find a venue near you if you’re interested in joining a league!
• Tournaments: WATL organizes The World Axe & Knife Throwing Championships (WAKTC) and many other tournaments throughout the year, offering a chance for you to test your skills on a larger stage. The camaraderie and excitement at these events are unmatched, making them a must-try experience as you start your throwing journey.
• Online Resources & Community: Even if you’re just starting out, you can benefit from the wealth of resources available through the WATL website and social media channels. From tips and tutorials to stories from fellow axe throwers, you’ll find plenty of inspiration and support from the community.

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Final Thoughts

Axe throwing is one of the most exciting and welcoming sports to get into in 2025. Whether you’re looking to start axe throwing in a WATL-affiliated venue or want to set up a home practice space, there are plenty of options for you to dive in and enjoy the thrill of the throw.

When you’re ready to start your axe-throwing adventure, use the Venue Finder to locate a WATL Venue near you. Alternatively, get equipped with the WATL Ultimate Starter Kit from the WATL Store. No matter where you begin, we’re excited to welcome you into the WATL community. The world of axe throwing awaits!

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