Do you want to practice for the league a bit more but you don’t have time to make it to your local venue?
We’re here to help you get some practice in at home with some instruction on building your own axe throwing target.
We have some outlines for the targets in our WATL Official Rules you’ll find at any WATL venue. These targets are intended more for venues to place permanent axe throwing, wall-mounted, targets.
You’re going to need something to throw at your target, make sure to check out the WATL Starter Kit. The WATL Starter Kit comes with a WATL target stencil, WATL markers, Hatchet, Big Axe, and a Whetstone – everything a thrower needs to get started with a backyard target.
We’ve linked a PDF of our instructions for easy assembly below.
Axe Target Materials List:
- 2 bottom lengths – 2″x4″x72”
- 3 bottom spreader lengths (back/front/mid) – 2″x4″x45”
- 2 upright vertical lengths – 2″x4″x84”
- 2 diagonal support beam lengths – 2″x4″x88”
- 2 upright vertical length spreaders – 2″x4″x42”
- 2 filler lengths – approx. 2″x4″x8” (use offcuts from other lengths)
- 1 2″x10″x4’ front base/ledge board
- 5 2″x10″x4’ target backboards
- 5 2″x10″x4’ target front boards
- 3” Deck Screws (100 count)
- Measuring Tape
- Level
- Drill
- 1 Official WATL Target Stencil
- Official WATL Marker – 1 of each color
Thinking About Starting An Axe Throwing Facility?
We’ve put together a handy guide for new venues who are looking to join WATL
Assembling Your Axe Throwing Target
Step 1
Screw the front and back spreaders to the ends of the bottom lengths.
Step 2
Screw a spreader approximately in the center of the bottom lengths.
Step 3
Screw one of the upright vertical length spreaders to the top of the vertical lengths. It should be flush with the front of the vertical lengths.
Step 4
Screw the other upright vertical length spreader to the vertical lengths, the TOP of the spreader should be 3 feet (36 inches) from the bottom of the vertical lengths, and it should stick out 1 1/2 inches to the front of the vertical lengths (the width of your 2x10x4’ backboard). *You may need an assistant to help with step 5 and 6 below
Step 5
Screw the vertical lengths to the inside of the bottom lengths. The CENTER of the vertical lengths should be at 12 inches from the front of the bottom lengths. *Pro Tip: use your level to ensure that the verticals are STRAIGHT.
Step 6
Screw the diagonal support lengths first to the back of the bottom lengths (inside them), then to the inside of the vertical lengths.
Step 7
Screw the filler lengths to the front facing part of the vertical lengths. They should be flush to the top of the spreader from step 4. Some of the 2×4 filler will stick out to the sides. The purpose of these are to give something to screw the bottom ledger board into. *Pro Tip: If the extra bits sticking to the sides bothers you, rip the pieces to 1 1/2 inches wide so they are also flush with the vertical supports.
Step 8
Screw the ledger board to the front of the uprights. The TOP of the ledge board should be at exactly 36″ from the ground. *Pro Tip: Use your level to ensure that it is straight across the length of it.
Step 9
Screw the target backboards into the frame horizontally across the front of the target.
Step 10
Find the center point of your target, line it up with the center of one of your front target boards, and screw the boards into the backboard. Continue screwing in the vertical target boards outwards from that center board.
Step 11
Use a WATL Stencil to draw on your targets. Make sure to follow the rules on height measurements for WATL targets you can find here in Section H of the rules page.
How To Use A WATL Stencil
Getting The Right Equipment
The WATL Starter Kit is the best introductory package to get new throwers into the sport of Axe Throwing.
The WATL Starter Kit comes with a WATL target stencil, WATL markers, Big Axe and Hatchet and a Whetstone – everything a thrower needs to get started with a new backyard target.
WATL Axes, unlike standard hardware store Hatchets, are designed to be thrown. The Competition Thrower, which comes with the Starter Kit, is the perfect Throwing Axe to practice with.
Nicely weighted and durable, the Competition Thrower will improve your game and get you ready for the next level of play.
The same can be said about the WATL Big Axe, this powerful axe lets you practice the Big Axe discipline of Axe Throwing. Making mistakes is a key part of learning the sport and you want an Axe with some durability.
Upgrade to the Premium Package to get The Butcher and The General. Our Premium Axes will take your game to the next level, they are precision implements to further hone your Axe Throwing skills. Once you are ready to upgrade your Axe Throwing setup – the Premium WATL Starter Kit is the best deal around.
Upgrading Over Time
If you are looking for an upgraded Standard Hatchet, there are more options to consider.
Our Premium Line of Axes are intended for advanced Axe Throwers, and feature patented Throwing Axe designs.
We’ve created a resource to help you pick which Premium Axe is right for you.
The Ace Of Spades
The Butcher
The Corporal
The Bad Axe
Top of the Line Throwing Axes – The WATL Pro Line
The Jack of Clubs Pro
The Queen of Hearts Pro
Social Media
We hope this guide will help you get set up and ready to practice at home and with your friends. While you practice, as always check out The World Axe Throwing League on Instagram and Facebook or join our Facebook Group for awesome discussion, posts and community stories!
Get Exclusive Offers & Stay Up-To-Date
Sign-up today and never miss an update in the exciting world of axe throwing.