While many Americans are knowledgeable on how to operate such weapons as firearms and bows and arrows, there are plenty of other weapons worth knowing how to use. Tomahawks and other throwing axes can make a great hobby for the initiated thrower—here’s a guide on how to throw a tomahawk:

-First, acquire a quality tomahawk. Don’t throw around a hatchet or a standard axe—it’s dangerous to toss an axe meant for chopping, not throwing! Throwing axes and tomahawks are lightweight, streamlined, and designed specifically to be thrown.

-Get a target which will stop the axe’s momentum. Something wooden is ideal—not a live tree or plant, though! A dead tree stump at least four to six inches thick will suit the purpose well.

-Contrary to knife blades, throwing axe blades are best kept dull. A sharp axe blade poses risks of serious injury upon errant throws—a dull blade is much safer.

-Only throw outdoors and in an open area with no passersby.

-Stand in a ready stance to maximize your arm motion’s force. Stand upright and level, place your feet shoulder-width apart, and hold your arms loosely at your sides. Stand square with respect to the target.

-Hold the tomahawk with the handle pointed at your body, hold the handle firmly about two inches from the end, and wrap your thumb around the handle. Do not place your thumb on the handle’s backside! This will negatively impact the axe’s spin during its flight.

-Be sure to keep the axes straight, so that the blade’s edge is precisely perpendicular to your target. If the blade’s axis is aligned even slightly astray, the tomahawk’s spin will be askew and the axe will flail around during its flight. Remember, only well-thrown axes stick into their targets.

-Let the axe swing at your side to get a feel for its weight and trajectory.

-Distance yourself appropriately from your target—ideally, for a beginner, this will be about five to ten long paces away.

-To throw the tomahawk, bring it up in a very slow and controlled fashion. Let your elbow flex as the axe reaches its apex, at which point your elbow should be near your ear. Don’t use your wrist to throw—just your arm!

-Bring the axe forward, picking up force, and release it.

-Check the target. Did your axe stick into it? If so, congratulations! If not—try, try again.

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Armory Replicas boasts a diverse inventory of throwing axes and tomahawks—come see for yourself, and check out the ongoing sale prices!