Start a new hobby in Charlotte: axe throwing 101

Whether you’re looking for a quirky hobby to try, hoping to meet new people, or just looking to let off some steam, axe throwing may be a good way to do just that.

Editor Maria throwing a hatchet toward a three-ringed wooden target.

Axe requirements like length and head size vary, depending on the league you throw in.

Photo by CLTtoday

Newsletter editor Maria, here. If you’re subscribed to our daily newsletter, you’ll remember this ask about quirky hobbies. My thinking? It’s never too late to try something new. A new hobby — and sport — I picked up fairly recently: axe throwing.

I first tried it in July 2023, and haven’t been able to put the axes down since. What started as a video project turned into a weekly event spanning two years (and counting), taking me to Asheville, Durham, and qualifying for the International Axe Throwing Championship in Canada.

Where to throw

BATL Grounds | LoSo and Plaza Midwood | $30 per person | League nights are Mondays in LoSo and Tuesdays in Plaza Midwood — you’ll most likely find me throwing on Tuesdays.

Bad Axe Throwing | 350 E. 6th St., Ste. 1 | $20+ per person

Victory Lane Karting | 2330 Tipton Dr., Ste. 100 | $24+ per person

Editor Maria throwing a big axe toward a target, getting a bullseye.

This was editor Maria’s first ever big axe bullseye in 2023.

GIF by CLTtoday

Tips to get started

  • Don’t be scared. The coaches will walk you through every step before you throw your first axe.
  • Be patient. After a few league nights at BATL + learning how to step and throw, you’ll start landing them.
  • Keep your back straight to keep the axe in a straight trajectory toward the target.
  • Try new axes. Every thrower has their own approach and your axe should match your style — something you’ll learn with time.
  • Most importantly: have fun.

Pro tip: If you’re going to start a league, don’t worry about bringing your own axe. While this is a great starter axe, many throwers will let you borrow one for the evening.

Now’s your chance to tell me about your favorite hobby — I’d love to write about it for an upcoming newsletter.

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