Axe-throwing has become an increasingly popular recreational activity, and to the experienced thrower, the choice of wood for targets can drastically impact the experience and durability of the setup. When selecting wood for an axe-throwing target, there are several factors to consider: grain density, hardness, self-healing properties, availability, and cost.
Softwoods are typically preferred for axe-throwing targets due to their ability to ‘heal’ or close up after an axe is pulled out, which allows the target to last longer. The most commonly used types of wood for targets are pine, spruce, and poplar. These species represent an ideal balance of softness and firmness, allowing the axe blade to stick into the wood with ease while still maintaining the structural integrity of the target.
Pine is a widely favored choice for targets. It’s a softwood, which means the axe can easily stick into it, and it’s budget-friendly and readily available. Southern Yellow Pine, in particular, is noted for its dense grain, which offers more durability compared to other pine varieties.
Spruce is another excellent choice, with similar characteristics to pine. It is relatively soft, enables easy axe penetration, and has a straight, uniform grain that helps reduce the likelihood of the axe bouncing back. Additionally, it has a good self-healing property, meaning the fibers tend to close back after the axe is withdrawn, preserving the life of the target.
Poplar is also favored for its availability and softness. It is slightly harder than pine and spruce, giving it extra durability without compromising too much on the ease of blade entry. Plus, poplar tends to have a smooth surface that requires less maintenance and preparation before use.
Another type of wood you can consider is cottonwood, especially in regions where this tree is abundant. Cottonwood has a low density, which is beneficial for the axes to stick, but it also has a looser grain structure, which might not self-heal as effectively as pine or spruce. This means cottonwood targets may have a shorter lifespan and require more frequent replacement.
It’s important to note that while hardwoods like oak or maple might seem like a good option due to their durability, they are generally not recommended for axe-throwing targets. Hardwoods are more likely to cause the axe to bounce back due to their density and are harder to penetrate, which can be dangerous and also frustrating for throwers.
In axe-throwing, having the grain oriented vertically (up and down) on the target can make a significant difference. This setup matches the direction of the axe’s edge as it hits the target, decreasing the chances of the blade hitting the wood fibers at a perpendicular angle, which would make it harder to stick.
Although the type of wood is important, the condition of the wood is also vital. Fresh, green wood from any of these species will hold an axe better and last longer than older, dried-out wood, which tends to crack and splinter more easily. It’s best to source your wood locally and use it while it still retains some moisture.
Finally, no matter which type of wood is chosen, regular maintenance of the targets, such as sanding down rough spots and replacing severely damaged sections, will help sustain a safer and more enjoyable axe-throwing experience.