Axe throwing isn’t just about power. It’s about precision, control, and atmosphere. Whether you’re learning how to axe throw for fun or joining a league, the right axe-throwing equipment makes every throw count.
At Montana Nights, it’s more than just throwing axes: it’s about the entire experience where guests can relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the bar setting while hanging out with friends, coworkers, or family. It’s a full evening of entertainment.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from axe-throwing gear and target setups to the bar and lounge experience that makes Montana Nights a local favorite.
Understanding Axe-Throwing Equipment
Before you start throwing, understand what’s included in a standard axe-throwing setup. Each piece of axe-throwing accessories plays a role in keeping the game safe, accurate, and exciting.
The essentials include:
- Throwing axes (or hatchets)
- Target boards
- Throwing lanes and barriers
- Grip chalk or gloves
- Safety gear (like closed-toe shoes and lane dividers)
Let’s look at each one more closely.
1. The Throwing Axe
The axe is the main tool of the game. It’s not a regular hardware-store axe but a balanced throwing model made for spin and control.
Key Axe Specifications
- Weight: 1.5–3 pounds
- Length: 12–16 inches for balance and control
- Handle: Wood or composite for comfort and grip
- Blade: Sharp enough to stick, not dangerously sharp to handle
Types of Throwing Axes
- Standard Axe/Hatchet: Perfect for beginners and casual throwers. At Montana Nights, we offer 16” Estwing Camper axes with one-piece American steel handles and head, with the grip area coated in Nylon. We also offer a selection of standard wooden-handle axes.
- Professional Axe/Hatchet: For those looking to up their game, we offer official World Axe Throwing League (WATL) professional axes. With a 17” American Hickory handle, and a sharp, balanced carbon steel blade, the WATL Corporal axe is the perfect upgrade for the enthusiast in your group.
- Big Axe: Heavier and used in advanced rounds or competitions.
- Double-Bit Axe: A dual-blade option for expert throwers.
Choosing the Right Axe
Find one that feels natural. A balanced axe gives smoother rotations and cleaner hits.
At Montana Nights, professional instructors known as AxeMasters guide you on the best technique for your skill level and chosen axe, while teaching you how to throw safely and effectively.
2. The Target Board
The target board gives players a solid surface to aim for and track points.
Target Setup Details
- Material: Ideally cottonwood or poplar, although pine can also be used. Target boards are chosen for easy sticking and durability. At Montana Nights, we utilize both cottonwood and poplar target boards, harvested from around CT and milled in Southington, CT.
- Design: Five concentric rings with the bullseye in the center.
- Size: Roughly 36 inches wide.
- Distance: Throwers stand 12–15 feet away from the board.
At Montana Nights, targets are replaced often so every guest gets a clean, safe surface to throw at. To keep things fresh throughout your game, we use digital axe targeting systems that bring interactive games like zombie hunter, connect 4, battleship, tic-tac-toe, and many more to life.
3. The Throwing Lane
Each throwing lane is built for both safety and excitement.
Lane Specifications
- Width: About 6 feet per lane
- Length: 12–15 feet from line to target
- Barriers: Wood or mesh panels between lanes for safety
- Lighting: Bright and evenly spread for clear visibility
Groups can throw side by side, cheer each other on, and enjoy the friendly bar-like atmosphere. At Montana Nights, it’s common to see people laughing and sipping drinks between rounds.
4. Axe Throwing Safety Equipment
Safety is the foundation of a great throwing session.
Essential Safety Gear
- Closed-toe shoes: required for everyone.
- Lane barriers: protect throwers and bystanders.
- Rubber-Matting: absorbs axe impacts (for those rare misses) to reduce bounce-back.
- Trained staff supervision: every session begins with a safety demo, and your AxeMaster stays with your group for the duration of the session to ensure everyone stays safe while having fun.
- First-aid kits: available at all times.
These details make Montana Nights safe for beginners and pros alike. You can throw confidently, knowing every precaution is in place.
5. Chalk, Gloves, and Grips
Grip control is essential for consistency and accuracy.
Grip Enhancers
- Textured Handles: All our axes utilize professionally-applied grip tape for better traction.
- Chalk: Keeps hands dry and prevents slips. This is optional!
- Gloves: although optional, gloves are useful for extended sessions or sensitive hands.
These small additions help players perform better, especially in longer games or group tournaments.
Scoring Tools and Digital Systems
Some venues still score by hand, but Montana Nights has modernized the process.
Scoring Systems
- Digital scoreboards automatically record each hit.
- Bullseye: 5 points
- Inner Ring: 3 points
- Outer Ring: 1 point
- Kill Shots: Small dots worth 8 points for advanced rounds
Technology keeps the competition friendly and the excitement high.
Equipment for Different Game Modes
Different setups are used for various game types, from casual fun to competitive events.
Common Game Modes
- Social Pit Mode: 1–5 players share a lane.
- Private Pit Mode: 6+ players enjoy a private session, in one or more pits.
- Group Events: Large setups for birthdays, team outings, or parties.
- Interactive Mode: Digital targets for themed throwing challenges.
Every mode comes with the same top-quality equipment, but the vibe changes from competitive to completely social.
The Bar and Lounge Experience at Montana Nights
Now, let’s talk about what truly sets Montana Nights apart. It’s not just an axe-throwing venue, it’s also a bar where you can unwind, drink, and socialize.
Each location has a unique setup:
- Newington, CT: A full bar, pizza service, and arcade games. Perfect for casual hangouts or parties.
- Southington, CT: A BYOF (Bring Your Own Food) location with a great bar scene inside Factory Square.
- Putnam, CT: Combines a full bar, pizza, and axe throwing in one space.
Guests can enjoy a drink before or after throwing or skip the throwing altogether and just hang out at the bar.
The vibe is lively, friendly, and welcoming. Groups often mix axe throwing with drinks, food, and arcade fun. Whether you’re watching friends compete or celebrating after a great throw, Montana Nights feels like your neighborhood bar, but it’s way more exciting.
Maintenance of Axe-Throwing Equipment
Good maintenance ensures every game stays safe and enjoyable.
Axe Care
- Check handles for cracks or splinters.
- Keep blades sharp but not razor-sharp.
- Store in dry conditions to prevent rust.
Target Care
- Replace worn or splintered boards.
- Rotate sections to even out wear.
- Sweep wood chips often for safety and cleanliness.
This upkeep ensures consistency for every player.
Equipment Used in Competitions
Professional axe throwing leagues, such as WATL (World Axe Throwing League), have strict standards.
Competition Equipment Rules
- Total Axe Weight: 3–4.25 pounds
- Handle Length: 23–30 inches
- Target Distance: Generally 12 feet from the throw line
- Material: End-grain wood for durability and accuracy
Montana Nights follows WATL (the World Axe Throwing League) guidelines for consistent, safe performance.
The Complete Montana Nights Experience
At Montana Nights, it’s not just about the axes, it’s about the energy. Each location blends axe throwing, drinks, and entertainment for a night out that’s part sport, part social gathering.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Professionally built lanes with high-quality targets
- A full bar with beer, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks
- Friendly staff and trained instructors
- Music, food options, and arcade games
- A comfortable lounge to hang out between throws
Whether you’re coming for competition or conversation, Montana Nights lets you do both. Throw hard, laugh loud, and toast with friends. It’s the ultimate mix of fun and relaxation!
Final Thoughts
The right axe-throwing equipment makes every throw precise and safe. However, the best experiences go beyond the gear.
At Montana Nights, guests can throw, drink, eat, and socialize all under one roof. The blend of competition and casual bar vibes makes it one of the most enjoyable destinations for anyone looking for something different.
So grab your axe, grab a drink, and get ready for a night you won’t forget, because at various locations of Montana Nights, it’s always axes, drinks, and good times.