In the last few years, axe throwing has become a popular pastime. It is something you can do casually with your friends or on a date, but if you get serious, you can join a league and start competing.
To become proficient at axe throwing takes a great deal of practice and skill. However, equal importance is that an axe is balanced, easy to handle and the right length. For this article, we've chosen a wide variety of throwing axes to spotlight.
These versatile axes are lightweight, thin, have a large cutting edge and are the most common type of axes used for recreational throwing.
Our take: This axe is not a multipurpose item; it was manufactured explicitly for intermediate to advanced axe throwers.
What we like: This is an official World Axe Throwing League model with a thin profile and extremely sharp blade.
What we dislike: Rarely, an ax with a weaker handle slips through quality control.
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Our take: A well-balanced, affordable axe that is preferred by members of axe throwing leagues.
What we like: This axe is designed for durability with a carbon steel head and an American hickory handle.
What we dislike: For best results, this model may require some sharpening before use.
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Our take: If you're looking for a durable, competition axe that isn't too costly, this will be suitable for your needs.
What we like: The rugged design of this axe with its patent-pending locking mechanism makes it a wise choice for beginning throwers.
What we dislike: While this is an excellent axe, it may arrive a little dull and need to be sharpened up before throwing.
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A tomahawk has a longer handle and a smaller cutting edge than a hatchet. A tomahawk is also commonly used for recreational throwing.
SOG Tomahawk Throwing Axe (3-Pack)
Our take: The three lightweight axes in this set are a good option for beginners.
What we like: These throwing axes have a complete tang construction, making them a highly durable option. Purchase includes a protective sheath with a belt loop.
What we dislike: While these tomahawks function well, they are smaller than expected.
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Our take: A well-built and affordable throwing axe that is 16.25 inches long, which means it rotates more slowly, so throwers may need to take a step back.
What we like: This model is lightweight and balanced with a forged steel construction for durability.
What we dislike: If the sticker on this tomahawk is removed, it invites corrosion.
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CRKT Woods Chogan Tomahawk Axe
Our take: This model is slightly over 19 inches long, which could pose a challenge for beginning throwers.
What we like: The smooth handle makes this tomahawk easy to grip while the lightweight design helps battle user fatigue.
What we dislike: Because of its length, this is not the ideal model for throwing. If you like a challenge, this will push you to be better.
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In these particular models, the entire axe, blade and handle, is made from one solid piece of metal. These axes are often the most affordable option.
Snake Eye Throwing Axe (2-Pack)
Our take: These smaller options are best for a thrower who has a smaller hand.
What we like: Snake Eyes throwing axes are one of the more ruggedly designed throwing axes. They are easy to transport, making them suitable for camping needs as well.
What we dislike: While you get two axes, only one sheath comes with this set.
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Our take: This budget-priced throwing axe is best for practicing your throwing mechanics.
What we like: This axe is manufactured using stainless steel with a satin finish. The blade is only 4 millimeters thick and it comes with a nylon sheath for safety.
What we dislike: This axe is not the most durable model on our list, but it does feature a low price.
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Smith & Wesson Throwing Knives and Axes Combo
Our take: A versatile set of throwing items that includes three axes and three knives.
What we like: Balanced and sharp, these axes fly straight and true. Additionally, the axes feature three sharpened surfaces for maximum sticking surface.
What we dislike: As with other axes in this category, these are not as durable as higher-priced options.
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A double-bit axe has two cutting edges: one for cutting and one for splitting.
Our take: This type of axe is best for someone already proficient at throwing hatchets and tomahawks.
What we like: The impressive durability of this model is what gives it the edge needed to attempt using it as a throwing axe.
What we dislike: While these types of axes are not ideally balanced for throwing, you can compensate by adjusting your technique.
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Sheffield Side Winder Double Axe
Our take: This affordable model has a large, curved blade to help with sticking your throw.
What we like: The nylon fiberglass handle helps keep the axe lightweight, while the rugged 3.5-inch stainless steel blade makes it a good value for the price.
What we dislike: This axe is on the longer side, which adds a degree of difficulty when throwing.
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If you'd like a safer, kid-friendly way to play, these foam throwing sets are something you can enjoy with the whole family.
Our take: A comprehensive set that includes three axes, three throwing stars and a target.
What we like: The blunt, lightweight throwing objects and the bristled board make this a set that can be played indoors by the whole family.
What we dislike: While this is a fun family game, you must take care because it is not a ruggedly designed set.
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Zing Zax Foam Axe Throwing Game
Our take: This safe version of axe throwing employs soft foam suction cups for sticking power.
What we like: This game is affordable, fun and safe. While it comes with a target, the suction cups stick to several items, so gameplay is adaptable.
What we dislike: The axes have to hit just right, or they do not stick.
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Allen Foster writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.