You’ve probably already tried your hand at throwing axes and experienced the adrenaline rush that comes with it. But let’s face it, constantly buying new targets can be a hassle, and it’s not the most cost-effective solution.
That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on how to create a throwing axe target that’s perfect for practicing your skills.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Choose the Right Materials
Selecting the perfect materials for your throwing axe target is crucial. In this section, we’ll dive into the different types of materials you can choose from and the pros and cons of each.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Pine (Softwood) | Lightweight, easy to work with, affordable | Wears down quickly, needs frequent replacement |
| Spruce (Softwood) | Lightweight, easy to work with, slightly more durable than pine | Not as long-lasting as hardwoods |
| Oak (Hardwood) | Strong, durable, popular choice | More expensive than softwoods |
| Maple (Hardwood) | Resilient, excellent durability | Slightly more expensive than oak |
| Poplar (Hardwood) | Affordable hardwood option | Not as durable as oak or maple |
| Plywood | Stable, less prone to warping, affordable | May not be as durable as solid wood |
| Foam | Lightweight, portable, weather-resistant | Lacks the classic look and feel of wooden targets |
| Particle Board | More affordable than solid wood | Not as durable or long-lasting as other options |
Wood: The Classic Choice
Wood is the most common choice for axe targets, thanks to its durability and ease of use. It’s also an affordable option and can be found easily at your local hardware store or even repurposed from old pallets.
When choosing wood, make sure it’s free of cracks or splits that might weaken the target.
Softwoods
- Pine: This lightweight wood is easy to work with and readily available. However, it tends to wear down quickly, so you may need to replace it more often.
- Spruce: Like pine, spruce is lightweight and easy to work with. It’s a bit more durable than pine, but still not as long-lasting as hardwoods.
Hardwoods
- Oak: Oak is a strong and durable hardwood, making it a popular choice for axe targets. It’s more expensive than softwoods but will last longer.
- Maple: Another strong hardwood, maple is resilient and can withstand repeated impacts. It’s slightly more expensive than oak but offers excellent durability.
- Poplar: Poplar is a more affordable hardwood option. It’s not as durable as oak or maple, but it’s still a decent choice for a throwing axe target.
Alternative Materials
While wood is the most popular choice, there are alternative materials that can be used for throwing axe targets. These options may offer different benefits, such as increased durability or water resistance.
Plywood
Plywood is an engineered wood product made by gluing together thin layers of wood veneer. It’s more stable and less prone to warping than solid wood but may not be as durable when it comes to axe impacts.
Foam
High-density foam targets can provide a lightweight and portable alternative to wooden targets. While they may not have the same classic look and feel, foam targets are weather-resistant and can be easily replaced when damaged.
Particle Board
Particle board is another engineered wood product made from wood particles and resin. It’s more affordable than solid wood, but it may not be as durable or long-lasting.
When choosing the right material for your throwing axe target, consider factors such as durability, cost, and ease of use. While wood, particularly hardwoods, remains the top choice for many, alternative materials like plywood or foam may offer unique benefits that suit your specific needs.
Design Your Target
Next, you’ll need to decide on a design for your target. A simple, classic design consists of a round target with concentric circles. These circles are usually painted with different colors to help you differentiate point values. To create your target, follow these steps:
- Measure and cut your wood to the desired size.
- Draw a series of concentric circles on the surface.
- Paint the circles in different colors.
But feel free to get creative with your design! For example, you can add bullseyes or other shapes, or even personalize it with your favorite team’s logo.
Assemble Your Target
Once you have your design in place, it’s time to assemble the target. Here’s how to do it:
- If you’re using lumber or pallets, arrange the pieces side by side to form a square or rectangular target.
- Use 2x4s to build a frame around the perimeter, securing the pieces together with screws or nails.
- Add support braces to prevent the target from wobbling or moving when struck by axes.
Mount Your Target
After assembling the target, you need to mount it on a sturdy stand or structure. This can be done by attaching it to a tree or building a freestanding frame. Make sure your target is at a comfortable height for throwing, usually around 4-5 feet off the ground.
Safety Tips
As with any throwing activity, safety should always be a priority. Here are some tips to keep you and your throwing axe target in good shape:
- Make sure your target is firmly secured and can withstand the force of the axe.
- Inspect your axes regularly for damage or wear, and keep them sharp.
- Ensure you have a clear throwing area and maintain a safe distance from spectators.
- Always follow proper throwing techniques to prevent injuries. If you’re new to axe throwing or looking to learn some techniques, check out our guide on how to forge a throwing axe.
Final Thoughts
Creating your own throwing axe target can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. Not only will you have a personalized target, but you’ll also save some cash in the long run.
