Back by popular demand, the World Axe & Knife Throwing Leagues present the US Open, September 11-14th, 2025 at Ox Indoor Axe Throwing in scenic Billings, Montana!
What is the US Open?
The US Open was historically WATL’s 2nd largest tournament from 2018-2022 with direct bids to the World Axe & Knife Throwing Championships. Originating as a true open with first come first serve registrations, the event quickly grew to needing a lottery system because demand outweighed the available space.
Hosted in Ox Indoor Axe Throwing, we are hoping to take the event back to its roots but also allow for a good number of throwers to participate. Ox is one of the largest axe throwing facilities in the United States, with 12 lanes, lots of hang out space, and a back patio with a fire pit. You can view a video walkthrough here that also aired on our International Axe Throwing Day variety show on 6/13/25.
What is the schedule?
Tentative schedule is below.
Who can sign up?
Anyone can sign up! This will be a true open and spots are first come, first serve. The only restriction will be for Hatchet, where Pros can only sign up for the Open Tournament. Amateurs can sign up for Open or Amateur Hatchet.
Registration will open on 6/30/25 at 8am EST.
Please note that all previous US Open Champions will not only receive an invitation to the tournament with a guaranteed spot in their respective discipline, but their registration fee is waived for the discipline they previously won as well!
What is the Prize Pool?
The final prize pool will depend on the final registration numbers of the event, with a maximum prize pool of $45,000!
In addition to the prize pool, WATL & WKTL will be awarding the following direct bids & Circuit Points.
Pro Hatchet, Big Axe, and Duals
- 1st place in each discipline receives a direct bid
- Circuit Points will begin allocation from 2nd place onward, using the same Circuit Point structure we’ve been using for the current tier
- No Circuit Point bumping is needed—just a clean shift down and adjustment for bracket ties
- Standard trickles apply for duplicate winners or already-qualified throwers
Amateur Hatchet
- Top 8 finishers receive bids to the Amateur Championship.
Knife and Knife Duals
- 1st place receives a direct bid to WKTC
- Trickles apply as needed for previously qualified throwers
For players looking for further updates & information can check the player portal. The portal will be updated over time as new development and announcements are made for the tournament.
WATL, WKTL, Ox Indoor Axe Throwing, and the Billings Sports & Tourism program are excited to bring people to see everything Montana has to offer from gorgeous views to local breweries and more! We hope to see you there.
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