THROWING AXE!

The throwing axe has become something of a sub sect all its own here on thrower. I have not many, but a few references, some with pictures, of interesting throwing axes.

In some ways the axe is easier to throw than even a good long and heavy knife. This is also true of a small ax or hatchet, which is about 12 to 14 inches in length (32-37 cm). When you throw an axe, you usually bring your arm up partway, the upper arm maybe parallel with the ground, or not even that. Then you just drop your arm real fast, and the axe takes care of the rest. The momentum of the head is considerably greater than any knife. You don't have to throw hard to have dramatic effect.

Targets also suffer. Axes are designed to chew through wood, and axe targets suffer mightily..

Taste plays an important part in selection. Lots of people like the Hibben axe (a hatchet) very much. I find the design catches my pinky when I let go, but only if I try to throw it too hard... If you're interested in the Hibben, you find it in the Atlanta Cutlery catalog, and probably in a few other references at that link.

Otherwise, here are a few other pointers to axe sources

• Starfire Swords has got to have one of the better initial offerings in this area. Prices are steep mind you...

• Here you will find something a little different in the Townsend catalog.

• The Sunshine Knife Outlet has lots of good throwing hatchets and small axes.

• Our own custom link has a pointer to Bailey's Lumberjack Axe, apparantly a staple in U.S. Lumberjack competitions. Also pricey! Plan on spending about $100 for axe head and handle. About $80 just for the head!

• Gransfors Bruks Inc. distributes (in the U.S.) something called a Competition Throwing Axe from Sweden. Long like a real double bitted lumberjack axe, High quality if you're into the real thing. Thrown with two hands. Proprietor is a Mr. Bob Reynolds who does answer his mail. Like the other full sized axes represented above, these are not inexpensive.