How to build an axe throwing target?

Find out more about how to build an axe throwing target and why it might be easier to buy one.

INTRODUCTION

Axe throwing has become hugely popular in the UK, with more and more people interested in trying it out at home. But when it comes to building your own axe throwing target, there are a few things to consider. At The Axe Throwing Supply Company UK, we understand the appeal of a DIY project. However, creating a safe, long-lasting target for axe throwing is a serious job that can be costly, time-consuming, and complex.

Here’s a look at what it takes to build an axe throwing target from scratch – and why you might prefer the convenience of a pre-made target.

Step 1: Gathering the Right Materials

Building a durable axe throwing target requires high-quality wood and materials that can stand up to repeated axe strikes. Here’s what you’d need:

  • Timber or thick wood planks: Typically, softwood like pine or spruce is used for axe throwing targets because it’s more forgiving and won’t dull your axe blade. However, finding large, thick boards that are soft enough yet strong can be tricky and expensive.

  • Mounting frame materials: For stability, you’ll need a strong frame to hold your target in place. This requires not only wood but also the right nails, screws, and potentially metal brackets for additional support.

  • Hardware and tools: A drill, saw, level, and measuring tape are essential, as well as heavy-duty mounting screws. You’ll also need paints or stencils if you want to mark a bullseye – which, again, adds time and cost.

Cost Factor: Quality materials for a single target build can cost upwards of £150-200 and that’s without factoring in the tools if you don’t already own them.

Step 2: Assembling the Frame and Base

Once you have your materials, you’ll need to construct a sturdy frame to hold the target safely and securely. This is no small feat, as a poorly constructed frame can be dangerous. You’ll need:

  1. A large frame to support the target board at the correct height and angle for throwing.

  2. Anchoring materials to ensure it stays stable, especially if it’s for outdoor use where wind or uneven surfaces may be a factor.

  3. A backing for safety, such as plywood, to ensure the axe doesn’t fly through or cause the target to topple over if it misses.

The frame alone requires solid construction skills, and any instability could cause the target to shift or even fall when hit.

Step 3: Cutting and Aligning the Target Face

To create a standard bullseye target, you’ll need to carefully mark and paint each section of the target to ensure it is accurate and clear. Using precise measuring tools to align each circle or scoring zone correctly is essential for creating a target that looks professional and provides accurate scoring. This process can be quite meticulous, as achieving uniform spacing and consistent lines requires a steady hand and a lot of attention to detail.

In addition to accuracy, you’ll also need to use weather-resistant paint to ensure that the design remains intact over time, especially if the target will be stored outdoors or in changing weather conditions. This type of paint will help protect the target from wear, fading, and exposure to the elements, keeping it durable and vibrant for longer.

Step 4: Maintenance and Replacement

One thing most people don’t realise is that axe throwing targets tend to degrade quickly with regular use. The repeated impact causes the wood to splinter, dent, and eventually break down over time. This means that if you’re building a target for regular practice, you’ll need to be prepared to repair or replace sections of the wood often, which adds both additional costs and time for maintenance.

At The Axe Throwing Supply Company UK, we address this challenge by creating targets with replaceable wood sections. This design allows customers to easily swap out damaged boards without having to construct an entirely new target, saving both time and resources. This setup makes long-term maintenance far simpler and more cost-effective, but creating this kind of flexibility in a homemade build can be a challenging and complex task to achieve, requiring careful planning and durable materials.

Why Buying an Axe Throwing Target is a Smart Choice

While it’s possible to build an axe throwing target on your own, the process is complex, time-consuming, and often more expensive than expected. Pre-made targets, like those available at The Axe Throwing Supply Company UK, are designed to last, offering high-quality wood, durability, and easy setup. Here’s why buying one may be a better investment:

  • Durability and quality: Our targets are made with premium materials designed for extended use, so you won’t need to worry about costly replacements.

  • Time-saving: Our targets are delivered ready-to-use, saving you hours of work on construction and assembly.

  • Safety-first design: Each target is rigorously tested to ensure it meets safety standards, providing a stable and reliable surface for safe throwing.

  • Cost-effective: When you consider the cost of materials, tools, and time, buying a pre-made target often ends up being more economical than a DIY attempt.

Conclusion: Buy a Target, Throw with Confidence

Building an axe throwing target may sound like a fun project, but it’s not as straightforward as it seems. Between the high-quality materials, time commitment, and ongoing maintenance required, it’s often simpler (and more affordable) to invest in a professionally made target. At The Axe Throwing Supply Company UK, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality, ready-to-use targets designed with both safety and durability in mind.

Ready to start throwing at home? Save yourself the hassle and additional cost of building a target system your self – browse our range of professionally made outdoor axe throwing targets and find the perfect setup to get you throwing in no time!