Ever since TKTO, Bad Axe Throwing, and BATL opened up in the Toronto area, I've wanted to try knife and axe throwing. But, I'm here in St. Catharines, and they're there in the GTA, and a couple of them have booking policies that just don't work for my wife and I (like needing a minimum of eight people). So, when I saw Bury The Hatchet the other day, I was ecstatic.
We managed to get out tonight since another group had already booked and he'd be open (Tuesday-Thursday are by appointment only, Friday - Monday are all by walk in). So, we get there, hang out in the lobby for a bit talking to Colin (the owner) and wait for the other group. Turns out they didn't show up, but Colin was nice enough to show just the two of us how it's done.
We went back to the range (is it called a range for knives and axes?) and got the rundown. I'd thrown an axe once before (literally one throw), but it was a very different beast than the axes Colin brought us. These look like streamlined things of beauty. Rugged, for sure, and simple, but still somehow beautiful. As are the knives. Paracord wrapped (though Colin tells us he plans to take the paracord off of them), gleaming, and sharp. He shows us how to throw both the axe and the knives, and where the best spot to stand to do so is.
Our quick tutorial done, and it's time to throw. Best way to learn is by doing! First up, axes. I stand by my mark, line up with the target, and throw. And miss. Damn. And again. And it sticks! I'm hooked. My wife and I work on perfecting our throws, and try a few different techniques, taking satisfying chunks out of the wood with each successful stick (apparently, that's what a good throw is called, I think). Eventually we decide to try the knives. These are very different, but just as entertaining. I managed to stick my first throw, but it was hit or miss after that, with more misses than hits.
The entire time, Colin is there, reassuring you that you're doing well, offering tips on what to do differently, where to stand, talking with us about various other things, and everything is so casual and comfortable, you forget this is someone you just met. He seems like a longtime friend, teaching you something he loves.
We went back and forth between the axes and knives a couple times, and soon enough, our time was done. My wife and I both managed to work up a bit of a sweat, and I can already tell my arm will be tired tomorrow. It's a surprisingly good (if one sided) workout. We left knowing we'll definitely be back, hopefully sooner rather than later. read more