Tomahawk Throwing: A Beginner's Guide

Hey guys! There's probably nothing more primal and satisfying than watching a tomahawk soar through the air and hearing that thunk as it sticks perfectly into the target. It's seriously relaxing and almost mesmerizing, and the best part? Anyone can learn how to do it! With the right technique and a little practice, you'll be sticking tomahawks like a pro in no time. So, let’s dive into the exciting world of tomahawk throwing!

Understanding the Tomahawk

Before we start chucking these awesome axes, let's get to know what a tomahawk actually is. Essentially, a tomahawk is a lightweight axe, traditionally used as both a tool and a weapon. They're super versatile, which is part of what makes throwing them so much fun. Unlike heavier axes used for chopping wood, tomahawks are balanced for throwing, making them easier to control and stick into a target.

When choosing a tomahawk, consider the weight, handle material, and overall balance. A lighter tomahawk is generally easier for beginners to handle, while a heavier one might offer more sticking power once you've mastered the basics. Handle materials range from wood to synthetic options like nylon or fiberglass. Wooden handles offer a classic look and feel, but synthetic handles are often more durable and weather-resistant. Ultimately, the best tomahawk is the one that feels most comfortable and balanced in your hand. You can find them at most outdoor recreation stores or online retailers. Just make sure you're getting one specifically designed for throwing, as these will have the right balance and construction for the sport.

Types of Tomahawks

• Competition Tomahawks: Designed for accuracy and precision, often with a specific weight and balance to meet competition standards.
• Tactical Tomahawks: More robust and durable, often used for breaching and survival situations. These might not be ideal for throwing due to their weight and design.
• Traditional Tomahawks: Replicas of historical designs, great for reenactments and historical demonstrations. These can be fun to throw, but make sure they're well-made and balanced for safety.

Safety First: Setting Up Your Throwing Range

Okay, safety is super important here, guys. We don't want anyone getting hurt, so let's talk about setting up a safe throwing range. First, you need a good backstop. This is what your tomahawk will (hopefully) be sticking into. A large, thick piece of softwood like cottonwood or pine works great. Make sure it's securely mounted and can withstand repeated impacts. The bigger, the better! Think of a target area that's at least 6 feet wide and 8 feet tall.

Next, clear the area around your target. You want a wide, open space with no obstacles or people nearby. A good rule of thumb is to have at least 50 feet of clear space behind the throwing line and 20 feet on either side. Make sure everyone watching is standing well behind the throwing line and out of the path of the tomahawk. It might sound like overkill, but it's always better to be safe than sorry.

Always wear eye protection to shield your eyes from splinters or debris. It's also a good idea to wear closed-toe shoes to protect your feet. Before each throw, double-check that no one is in the throwing area. And of course, never throw a tomahawk under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Keep it fun, keep it safe, and everyone will have a blast!

Safety Checklist:

• Sturdy Backstop: A large, thick piece of softwood securely mounted.
• Clear Throwing Area: At least 50 feet of clear space behind the throwing line and 20 feet on either side.
• Eye Protection: Always wear safety glasses or goggles.
• Closed-Toe Shoes: Protect your feet from accidental drops or ricochets.
• Spectator Safety: Ensure everyone is well behind the throwing line.
• Sobriety: Never throw a tomahawk under the influence.

The Basic Throwing Technique

Alright, now for the fun part: actually throwing the tomahawk! The basic technique is pretty simple, but it takes practice to get it right. Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, facing the target. Hold the tomahawk handle firmly in your dominant hand, with your thumb wrapped around the handle. Raise the tomahawk back over your head, keeping your elbow bent. This is your backswing.

As you bring the tomahawk forward, shift your weight from your back foot to your front foot. Extend your arm and release the tomahawk when it's about eye level. The key is to release smoothly and consistently. Don't try to muscle the throw; let the weight of the tomahawk do the work. Follow through with your arm after releasing the tomahawk. This helps to ensure a smooth, consistent throw.

Stance and Grip

Your stance is crucial for balance and accuracy. Experiment with different stances to find what works best for you. Some people prefer a square stance, with their feet parallel to the target, while others prefer an angled stance, with one foot slightly ahead of the other. The grip should be firm but not too tight. A death grip will only make your throw less accurate. Imagine you're holding a bird – you want to hold it securely enough that it doesn't fly away, but not so tightly that you crush it.

Release Point

The release point is the most critical part of the throw. Releasing too early will cause the tomahawk to hit the target handle-first, while releasing too late will cause it to hit the target blade-first. The ideal release point is when the tomahawk is about eye level and your arm is fully extended. Practice releasing at different points until you find the sweet spot where the tomahawk sticks consistently. Small adjustments to your release point can make a big difference in your accuracy.

Adjusting for Distance

One of the trickiest things about tomahawk throwing is adjusting for distance. The distance between you and the target affects how many rotations the tomahawk makes in the air. If the tomahawk is hitting the target handle-first, you're too far away. If it's hitting blade-first, you're too close. The solution is to adjust your distance until the tomahawk sticks with the blade. This might take some trial and error, but with practice, you'll get a feel for the right distance.

The No-Spin Throw

As an alternative to the rotational throw, some people prefer the "no-spin" throw. This technique involves throwing the tomahawk with minimal rotation, relying on the weight and balance of the tomahawk to carry it to the target. The no-spin throw requires a different grip and release point than the rotational throw, and it's generally more difficult to master. However, some throwers find it to be more accurate and consistent.

To practice adjusting for distance, start close to the target and gradually move back as you become more accurate. Pay attention to how the tomahawk is hitting the target and adjust your distance accordingly. Remember, consistency is key. Try to maintain the same stance, grip, and release point with each throw. Small adjustments in your technique can have a big impact on your accuracy.

Practice Drills and Tips

Okay, so you've got the basics down. Now it's time to practice! The best way to improve your tomahawk throwing skills is to throw, throw, and throw some more. But here are a few drills and tips to help you get the most out of your practice sessions:

The Consistency Drill

This drill is all about developing a consistent throwing motion. Mark a spot on the ground where you'll stand for each throw. Focus on maintaining the same stance, grip, and release point with each throw. Aim for the center of the target and try to stick the tomahawk in the same spot every time. If you're having trouble with consistency, try videotaping yourself throwing and analyzing your technique. This can help you identify any flaws in your motion.

The Distance Drill

This drill is designed to help you adjust for different distances. Set up multiple targets at varying distances from the throwing line. Practice throwing at each target, adjusting your distance and technique as needed. Pay attention to how the tomahawk is rotating and adjust your release point accordingly. This drill will help you develop a feel for the relationship between distance and rotation.

Tips for Improvement

• Relax: Tension can ruin your throw. Stay loose and relaxed, and let the tomahawk do the work.
• Focus: Concentrate on the target and visualize the tomahawk sticking. Mental focus is just as important as physical technique.
• Breathe: Take a deep breath before each throw to calm your nerves and improve your focus.
• Be Patient: Tomahawk throwing takes time and practice. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately. Keep practicing and you'll eventually get there.

Advanced Techniques

Once you've mastered the basics, you can start experimenting with some advanced techniques. These techniques are more challenging, but they can add a whole new level of fun and excitement to your tomahawk throwing.

The Double Tomahawk Throw

This technique involves throwing two tomahawks at the same time, one in each hand. It requires a lot of coordination and practice, but it's incredibly satisfying when you pull it off. To perform the double tomahawk throw, hold a tomahawk in each hand, using the same grip as for a single throw. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and bring both tomahawks back over your head. As you bring the tomahawks forward, release them simultaneously. The key is to maintain balance and coordination throughout the throw.

The Behind-the-Back Throw

This technique involves throwing the tomahawk behind your back, without looking at the target. It's a showy and impressive move, but it's also very difficult to master. To perform the behind-the-back throw, hold the tomahawk in your dominant hand and stand with your back to the target. Reach back over your shoulder and release the tomahawk, aiming for the target. This throw requires a lot of practice and a good sense of spatial awareness.

Joining a Tomahawk Throwing Community

One of the best ways to improve your tomahawk throwing skills is to join a local tomahawk throwing club or community. These groups offer a great opportunity to learn from experienced throwers, share tips and techniques, and compete in friendly competitions. You can usually find tomahawk throwing groups by searching online or checking with local outdoor recreation stores. Joining a community can also help you stay motivated and make new friends who share your passion for tomahawk throwing.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! A complete guide to tomahawk throwing for beginners. With the right technique, a safe setup, and a whole lot of practice, you'll be sticking tomahawks like a true woodsman in no time. Remember to always prioritize safety, have fun, and never stop practicing. Now get out there and start throwing! And remember, the thunk of a well-thrown tomahawk is one of the most satisfying sounds in the world.