Ready to level up your axe throwing game? Once you’ve mastered the basics, there’s nothing more satisfying than learning how to throw an axe one-handed. It’s stylish, challenging, and adds a whole new layer of skill to your throws. But before you dive in, it’s important to understand the technique and safety rules that keep things fun—and accident-free.
Let’s break it down with expert advice from Timberjaxe Axe Masters and our advanced axe throwing sessions in Libertyville.
Most beginners start with the two-handed technique because it’s stable and easier to control. So why switch to one hand?
Looks awesome—seriously, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Forces you to improve focus and technique.
Adds an extra challenge for advanced players.
Harder to control rotation and axe spin.
More risk of dropping the axe if your grip isn’t solid.
Requires more practice to stick the bullseye consistently.
Bottom line? Two-handed is better for beginners, but one-handed throws take your game to pro status.
Going one-handed doesn’t mean throwing safety out the window. These rules matter:
Always stay behind the throwing line.
Never retrieve your axe until everyone in your lane is done.
Keep a strong axe stance—feet shoulder-width apart for stability.
Don’t throw if your hands are wet or slippery.
Check for clear surroundings before each throw.
At Timberjaxe, we take safety seriously. Every session starts with a briefing, especially for advanced axe throwing techniques like one-handed throws. Want more tips? Check out our Timberjaxe Axe Masters page for expert guidance.
Not all axes are created equal, especially for this style. For one-handed throws, you want:
Lighter Axes – Typically 1.5 to 2 lbs for better control.
Balanced Design – Helps with consistent axe spin.
Comfortable Handle – Good grip = less chance of slipping.
Pro tip: Avoid oversized axes meant for chopping wood—they’re too heavy and throw off your rotation.
Timberjaxe provides axes designed for both two-handed and one-handed throws during our Libertyville events, so you don’t need to bring your own.
Here’s the inside scoop from our instructors on how to throw an axe one-handed:
Grip Matters – Use a firm, centered hold near the base of the handle for maximum control.
Arm Position – Keep your throwing arm straight as you pull the axe behind your head.
The Motion – Step forward with the opposite foot as you swing and release smoothly.
Release Point – Let go when your arm is extended in front, not too early or late—timing is everything for consistent axe spin.
Follow Through – Finish with your arm pointing at the target for better accuracy.
It takes practice, but once you nail it, you’ll feel like a rockstar in the league.
Want to perfect your one-handed throw? Start small with these drills:
Wall Grip Practice – Stand close to a wall and practice your one-handed motion slowly without letting the axe hit the wall.
Dry Throws – Go through the motion without releasing the axe. Focus on grip and stance.
Short-Distance Throws – Begin closer to the target, then work your way back as your accuracy improves.
Spin Check – Watch how many rotations your axe makes. Adjust your distance or release point to control axe spin.
Practice these, and you’ll be ready to dominate in our Timberjaxe League nights. Sign up here and show off your skills.
Grip strength plays a major role in one-handed axe throwing. Without a strong, steady grip, it’s hard to control your release, spin, or accuracy. The good news? You don’t need a gym to build grip strength—just a few simple exercises and consistent practice.
Start with basic grip tools like stress balls, grip trainers, or even a rolled-up towel for squeezing. These help strengthen the muscles in your hands and forearms. Farmer’s carries (holding weights while walking) and dead hangs (hanging from a pull-up bar) are also great for building endurance and control.
Even practicing your axe hold at home—with a safe or training axe—can build muscle memory. Focus on holding the axe firmly but not too tight. A relaxed but secure grip gives you better control during your release and follow-through.
At Timberjaxe, our coaches often include grip-strengthening drills during advanced sessions. Stronger hands mean better throws, especially with one-handed techniques. Build your grip, and the rest of your technique becomes more stable and consistent.
One of the biggest factors in sticking a perfect throw? The distance between you and the target. Whether you're throwing one-handed or two-handed, fine-tuning your throwing distance is key to hitting the bullseye.
In general, most throwing lanes are set up at around 12 to 15 feet from the target. But not everyone’s throw is the same—how you release the axe affects how many spins it completes. If the axe is over-rotating (blade hits the board handle-first), try stepping closer. If it’s under-rotating, take a step back. Small adjustments make a big difference.
Accuracy also depends on your release point and follow-through. Letting go too early or too late can throw off the spin and direction. Focus on a smooth, controlled motion with your arm extended toward the target when you release.
Want to dial in your accuracy? Practice from a fixed spot, make small adjustments, and keep your mechanics consistent. Our coaches at Timberjaxe help you find your ideal throwing distance and guide you toward tighter, more accurate throws—bullseyes included.
If you’re looking for the ultimate challenge in advanced axe throwing, mastering how to throw an axe one-handed is the next step. Focus on your axe stance, perfect your one-handed grip, and control your axe spin with Timberjaxe’s expert guidance. Join the Timberjaxe League in Libertyville and bring your A-game to the lane. Book your spot today and throw like a pro.
Can beginners try one-handed throws?
Yes — but only after you’ve mastered the basics. At Timberjaxe, we recommend starting with two-handed throws to build a solid foundation in grip, stance, and release. Once you're comfortable and consistent, you can move on to one-handed throws with guidance from our coaches. It's a more advanced technique that requires better control and timing, but with practice and the right coaching, anyone can learn it safely.
Do I need special equipment?
Nope! You don’t need to bring any special gear. Timberjaxe provides all the equipment you need for both two-handed and one-handed throws. Our axes are specifically designed for safe, balanced throwing — lighter in weight, shorter in length, and easy to grip. Just wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes, and we’ll take care of the rest. If you're interested in buying your own axe later, our team can give you recommendations based on your throwing style.