Axe throwing is an exciting recreational activity and competitive sport that has grown in popularity in recent years. Originating from the longstanding lumberjack tradition, it involves competitors throwing an axe at a target, attempting to hit the bullseye or as close to it as possible. Understanding the key rules and the scoring systems in axe throwing is crucial for anyone interested in taking part in this thrilling sport.
First and foremost, safety is the number one rule in axe throwing. Participants must follow all safety guidelines provided by the facilitators, including handling axes with care, making sure the throwing lane is clear before throwing, and adhering to the set throwing techniques. Injuries can be severe in axe throwing, which is why compliance with safety rules is strictly enforced.
In terms of gameplay, axe throwing can be played one-on-one or in teams. Each match is typically broken down into rounds, with each participant getting a set number of throws per round. The objective is to accumulate the highest score possible over these rounds.
The target in axe throwing is usually a large wooden board with concentric circles painted or stenciled on it, similar to a dartboard. The scoring system is straightforward – the bullseye (center circle) is worth the most points, often five or six, depending on the league or organization’s rules. The next ring out is typically worth three points, and the subsequent ring worth one. Some targets may also have additional point zones called “kill shots” or “clutch” areas; these are smaller, separate targets typically worth seven or eight points. However, they come with a catch: you can only aim for them on certain throws, usually announced before the throw, adding a strategic element to the game.
Specific axe throwing leagues may have specialized rules. For instance, the National Axe Throwing Federation (NATF) includes rules around the required measurements of axes, the need for axes to stick to the board to score any points, and specifies distances from which participants must throw. Similar but slightly different, the World Axe Throwing League (WATL) has its own set of regulations and scoring systems. For example, in the WATL, the kill shots are only valid on the tenth and final throw of the game, and some tournaments may include double points for kill shots.
Scoring in axe throwing also varies on the type of game being played. The common game styles include ‘count up,’ where the highest score after a set number of rounds wins, and ‘around the world,’ where players need to hit every number on the board in sequence. There can also be head-to-head elimination games where players compete directly against one another, the winner moving on in the tournament.
It is also crucial for competitive axe throwers to understand how to break ties. Tiebreakers can differ from one organisation to the other, but they generally involve additional throws until a winner emerges. Each participant usually gets an equal number of extra throws in sudden death style until there’s a decisive score.
Additionally, different leagues may have various regulations about foot faults (similar to a foul line in bowling), the number of practice throws allowed before a match, and how to handle bounced or dropped throws. Inline with all competitive sports, respecting the axe throwing official’s decision is also an essential part of the game’s code of conduct.
In sum, axe throwing offers an exciting blend of skill, strategy, and a bit of luck, all framed by a set of clear rules and scoring systems designed for fairness and competitiveness. Whether participating casually with friends or in a structured league environment, understanding the basic structure and rules of the game enhances the experience of this thrilling and unique sport.