Is Axe Throwing Dangerous? 5 Safety Precautions To Follow
The question ‘is axe throwing dangerous’ would scare you if you’re starting it as a new activity. Probably, you’re wondering because of injuries or have a question, is it safe to play for a beginner?
Remember, it’s safe to play, and it’s actually axe throwing, not axe catching. Just like any other sport, where predefined rules and regulations for safety purposes are applied, axe throwing is also designed to avoid injuries.
In axe throwing, the place where you play is separated by a fence or in a cage shape, and no one can enter during playing, also there is a good amount of space between double lanes.
To read in detail about what are the basic safety precautions and rules about axe throwing, this guide is specifically designed to meet a safe and enjoyable axe throwing.
Basic Safety Rules For Throwing Axes Set By WATL:
Every sport is dangerous if it is played without following any rules and regulations and similarly if you don’t follow the rules while playing axe throwing, you’ll end up with any kind of injury.
However, axe throwing has rules set by WATL (World Axe Throwing League) and if you see the history of axe throwing then there is no such huge amount of injuries. There are few minor injuries if you consistently play the axe throwing without resting your elbow and wrist.
Following are the few rules mentioned by the WATL.
- In double lanes, every board is 4 feet wide, 1 foot from both outer sides and 2 feet from the inner side which is overall 12 feet which makes a good space for both players to play comfortably.
- The lane of axe throwing is 12 feet long and covered by rubber carpet which decreases the bounce back of the axe.
- The handle of the axe should not be more than 19 inches which means you can openly throw the axe toward the target.
- The axe that you throw should have 1 rotation and then hit the board which increases the chances of hitting the target.
- The world axe throwing league advises that people should talk in a friendly way and not use any kind of trash talk or abusive language.
Best Practices To Follow While Throwing Axes
Use Toe-Covered Shoes And Proper Outfits
While playing axe throwing, there is not any formal dressing, however, it’s suggested to wear fitted clothes, this will help you to quickly go over and pick the new axe for your next throw.
Another thing to keep in mind is to wear toe-covered shoes to protect yourself if somehow the axe is loose. If you don’t have proper shoes, you can either buy or rent new ones from the venue or outside.
Listen To The Expert Staff
If you’re a beginner and it’s you’re first time throwing the axe then you should consult the expert staff that available on the spot.
The expert staff will assist you in how you need to throw the axe toward the target and what safety precautions you have to follow to prevent any kind of unwanted injuries.
Don’t Use Any Alcoholic Drink
This is a silly thing that you carry or drink any alcoholic drink in the venue. Most of the venues don’t allow such kinds of drinks to prevent any kind of accidents however if somehow it’s allowed then make sure don’t drink while you play.
Use A Proper Throwing Axe
It’s important to have a proper hatchet or throwing axe if you’re playing to carry your own one. The axe should be designed as it should look as mentioned in the rule by WATL.
The axe should be not a double side axe or spikes and not be sharp as a razor. The blade of the axe should be not more than 4 inches, the weight should not exceed 3 pounds and the length of the handle of the axe should be under 19 inches.
The axe should be tight and not loose which is the prominent thing that can cause injuries. Neither catches the axe if it bounces back. Hold the single axe in your hand, there is 10 second time between the next should and you can easily pick another axe.
Throw It Confidently
If you are scared while throwing the axe then there are more chances that you may drop it or lose the target. It does not matter if you don’t perform well in the beginning, try to ask questions from expert colleagues and expert staff, and throw the axe confidently which will help you to boost your accuracy and quickly to learn the game.
Does There Any Type Of Equipment For Safety Purposes?
There is no specific equipment that can be used for safety however you can use shoes that are toe-covered and properly fitted clothes.
In axe throwing, you can utilize other equipment like chalk/gloves that can be a good addition that will provide you a good grip on the handle of the axe. Another piece of equipment is rare in use in most of the targets however sometimes when the axe hits the target then it causes wood and splinters to fly out.
Why Axe Throwing Is Safe To Play
The spot where you play axe throwing is fully covered by the sturdy fence, the boards made from soft wood like pine and spruce or cottonwood that catch the axe efficiently.
The size of the wood is about 19 inches which are equal to a hammer and not sharp enough to be capable of some serious cutting. The expert staff is available on the spot to consult the beginner.
Read More: Is axe throwing dangerous?
Has Anyone Ever Injured Or Died While Playing Axe Throwing
No one ever died while playing axe throwing however there are still fewer injuries probably if someone is constantly throwing the axe and not giving a rest to the high elbow.
However, the axe will bounce back if you throw it hard with more rotation, and also the wood is hard then it may be possible but the rubber carpet decreases these kinds of accidents and the ratio is just low.
