10 Best Throwing Axes and Tomahawks : Reviews and Buying Guide

Photo of author

By Lora Blandon

The throwing axe or tomahawk is a distinct hobby item. Anyone can take a throwing axe and attempt to hit a target from a distance. But it takes plenty of skill, patience, and analysis for anyone to hit a target.

But the throwing axe itself can be just as critical to anyone’s success. You need to ensure you only have the best possible throwing axe. This listing of the ten best throwing axes and tomahawks showcases many models that are useful for any competition you wish to enter.

Concept of Throwing Axes/Tomahawks

To understand what makes a throwing axe or tomahawk so useful, it helps to note what the axe is all about. A throwing axe is a tool that a user will throw in an overhand motion. The axe will rotate while it moves through the air. The axe has been used in many forms for centuries, particularly as a weapon in the Middle Ages.

The throwing axe features a straight shaft. The blade looks like what you would find on a traditional axe. But the smaller body makes it ideal as a weapon. The throwing axe is not for cutting down trees or splitting wood like what you’d do with a traditional axe.

The blade also features a sharp body that will stick in a target. Most throwing axe and tomahawk targets feature wood bodies, so it’s essential to ensure the axe can stick in such a spot.

Today, people use throwing axes in sporting competitions. The sport of axe throwing entails a person throwing the axe at a target. The goal is to hit the bullseye or get as close to it as possible.

The sport is similar to traditional archery, and various competitions appear throughout the world. The sport is especially prominent in Canada, the United States, Poland, and the United Kingdom.

But to make it work, you have to use three points:

1. The correct aim

2. Enough momentum to get the axe to go all the way to the target

3. The best release to ensure the axe will stick to the target

Is there any difference between Axe and Tomahawk?

A throwing axe may also be called a tomahawk. But the two items are technically the same thing. The tomahawk name refers to the small single-handed tool used by Native Americans and some European settlers.

Quick Comparison of Best Throwing Axes and Tomahawks

ProductsNameFeaturesCheck price
SOG Tactical Throwing Hatchet
  • Weight (ounces): 24
  • Handle Length (inches): 15.75
  • Handle Material: Stainless steel and nylon
  • Blade Length (inches): 2.75
CHECK PRICE
TRS Tomahawk Throwing Axe
  • Weight (ounces): 20
  • Handle Length (inches): 15.5
  • Handle Material: Nylon
  • Blade Length (inches): 2.5
CHECK PRICE
Thrower Supply 19” Hand Forged Hatchet
  • Weight (ounces): 26
  • Handle Length (inches): 19
  • Handle Material: Wood
  • Blade Length (inches): 3.75
CHECK PRICE
Estwing Special Edition Sportsman’s Axe
  • Weight (ounces): 7.5
  • Handle Length (inches): 14
  • Handle Material: Leather
  • Blade Length (inches): 3
CHECK PRICE
Schrade SCAXE10 11.1-Inch Full Tang Hatchet
  • Weight (ounces): 12
  • Handle Length (inches): 11.1
  • Handle Material: Rubber
  • Blade Length (inches): 3.6
CHECK PRICE
Snake Eye Tactical Compact Tomahawk
  • Weight (ounces): 16
  • Handle Length (inches): 9.5
  • Handle Material: Steel
  • Blade Length (inches): 2.75
CHECK PRICE
Bison Hunter’s Hatchet
  • Weight (ounces): 27
  • Handle Length (inches): 13
  • Handle Material: Wood
  • Blade Length (inches): 3
CHECK PRICE
Thrower Supply Polished Competition Spike 19” Tomahawk
  • Weight (ounces): 26
  • Handle Length (inches): 19
  • Handle Material: Wood
  • Blade Length (inches): 3.75
CHECK PRICE
CRKT Woods Chogan Tomahawk Axe
  • Weight (ounces): 32
  • Handle Length (inches): 19
  • Handle Material: Wood
  • Blade Length (inches): 3.5
CHECK PRICE
MTech USA Tomahawk Blade Survival Camp Axe
  • Weight (ounces): 30
  • Handle Length (inches): 14.5
  • Handle Material: Nylon fiber
  • Blade Length (inches): 3.75
CHECK PRICE

Top 10 Best Throwing Axe and Tomahawks Reviews

1. SOG Tactical Throwing Hatchet – Best For Survival Adventures

CHECK PRICE

Having a good grip is necessary for handling a tomahawk. The SOG Tactical Throwing Hatchet features a grooved stainless steel handle. A reinforced nylon material adds extra support to your hands. The handle features a two-bolt tang area for keeping the firm blade intact.

The blade area features a few holes in the area for added aerodynamics. The blade moves through while supporting a consistent direction when being thrown.

The stainless steel hatchet blade provides a firm grip that will connect with any target. The straight edge includes a good hold that will link up to a target while being easy to clean off and sharpen. The end also features a spike that also punctures a traditional wood target well. At about 24 ounces in weight, it should be easy for you to thrust the axe forward.

A nylon carrying sheath works with the hatchet. The nylon body protects the blade and has a stylish look that blends in with the rest of the axe.

Pros

  • The blade resists moisture well
  • The tang produces a firm body
  • Your hand moves off of the handle well as you throw

Cons

  • The spike end is very small
  • The end may be dangerous to touch

2. TRS Tomahawk Axe – Best Throwing Axe For Beginners

CHECK PRICE

People who are looking for throwing axes that aren’t too elaborate will enjoy how this TRS model works. The throwing axe features a fibreglass-reinforced nylon handle for a better grip. A few grooves appear around the end to create a better hold all around.

The sharp blade and butt end features are secured by three bolts on the tang end. A small curve is included on the tang end to produce a better hold and to control the total weight balance. The blade is perfectly balanced for an even throw. The tomahawk does not favour one side when moving forward.

At 15.5 inches in length, the throwing axe provides a good body that keeps the axe moving fast. The stonewash finish on the axe blade adds a nice touch.

Pros

  • The stitching is durable and well enclosed within the body
  • The steel bolts don’t stick out too much
  • The weight balance is easy to notice

Cons

  • The blade is tough to sharpen
  • The small handle may be hard for larger users to hold

3. Thrower Supply 19” Hand Forged Hatchet – Features a Powerful Steel Blade

CHECK PRICE

The quality of the blade can be essential to note when looking at how well the tomahawk works. Thrower Supply makes this throwing axe with a heat-treated blade that can connect to any target. The blade features a high-carbon steel body that is soft enough to be easy to sharpen. But the carbon steel is also firm to where it can hold an edge on the target.

The 19-inch handle features a smooth wood body. American hickory wood appears on the layout.

The wood body features a light tone. The straight grain provides a strong body that lasts for years. The sanded layout ensures the wood will not come apart and weaken. There’s even a beeswax coating on the top to added extra protection all around. The cover provides a better grip.

The 3.75-inch blade adds enough room for connecting without being too heavy. The axe itself weighs 26 ounces for a better hold.

Pros

  • The simple body is easy to hold
  • Provides proper aerodynamics for a throw
  • The blade stays sharp longer

Cons

  • The tang area could come apart depending on how you store the axe
  • The wax coating can wear after a few years

4. Estwing Special Edition Sportsman’s Axe – Best Throwing Axe for Competition

CHECK PRICE

A smaller axe is useful if you’re trying to get used to axe throwing. The Estwing Special Edition Sportsman’s Axe is one choice to find. At less than ten ounces in weight, this axe features a small body for throwing.

The 14-inch body features a leather grip. The hand-sanded layout provides a comfortable body that lasts for years. The slight groove on the handle adds a positive touch.

The one-piece layout on the axe ensures it stays durable. The one-piece forging provides a body that blends well without anything possibly falling off. The small blade at the end also features a small curve to allow it to connect to a target in moments. The back end of the blade head features an added mass area to create a better sense of balance when throwing.

Pros

  • The included nylon sheath provides a good hold
  • Also, ideal for small cutting uses
  • The body is easy to sharpen

Cons

  • May not work well for larger hands
  • The blade takes an extra bit of time to sharpen

5. Schrade SCAXE10 11.1-Inch Full Tang Hatchet – A Sturdy Rubber Grip

CHECK PRICE

You’ll need to keep enough of a grip over your axe to ensure you will keep it in its place when getting ready to throw. The Schrade SCAXE10 hatchet features a rubber grip that helps you keep hold of the axe.

The rubber-wrapped handle has enough small grooves to provide a good hold. The recesses on the inside end add enough room for your fingers.

The striking tang area on the top part features a connection that keeps the 3.6-inch blade intact. A visible curve appears on the full body of the blade to allow for a better grip on a target.

A small string appears on the bottom end for carrying purposes. The axe can fit well on a belt or its included sheath. The string is easy to tie around the end or to remove for when you’re planning on throwing.

Pros

  • The grip feels well in either hand
  • The one-piece design ensures the axe won’t come apart
  • The balance on the head area is consistent

Cons

  • It can be tough to remove the string on the bottom
  • It May go too fast after being thrown

6. Snake Eye Tactical Compact Tomahawk – A Complete Body

CHECK PRICE

A full tang or one-piece layout for a tomahawk produces a body that will stay intact and won’t be hard to set up. This Snake Eye tomahawk features such a layout. The one-piece look features a steel body all the way through.

A few small holes appear in the handle area. The holes reduce the weight of the tomahawk and add an aerodynamic sense of flow through the middle. A small curve appears on the handle for a better grip.

The blade features a small recess from the main body to produce a distinct shape. A small butt end appears on the other side with an equally pointed layout. The mass between the two parts is evenly divided to produce a better sense of motion as it is thrown. The included sheath also covers the head to keep the blade intact without coming apart.

Pros

  • The general body is well-balanced
  • The sheath adds a firm sense of protection
  • Provides a better flow on the followthrough

Cons

  • You could get your fingers stuck on the holes if not careful enough
  • The handles may feel chilled to some

7. Bison Hunter’s Hatchet – For Heavier Use

CHECK PRICE

Some of the best throwing axes are a little heavier and require extra effort for throwing. But these are also useful for championship events where such items are necessary. Bison makes its Hunter’s Hatchet as a throwing axe with a dense head.

Much of the nearly two-pound weight on the axe is situated on the head area. The stainless steel body comes from a hand-forged source to create a consistent shape with a sharp blade all the way around. A pronounced extension appears on the bottom end to add to the length of the blade.

The hickory wood handle offers a smooth look. The oiled layout ensures the wood is easy to hold and grip. A slight curve appears on the body to provide a good hold all around. The tang features a securely glued body that keeps the blade in the same spot without slipping out.

Pros

  • The weight is balanced all around
  • The blade stays sharp longer
  • The wood handle doesn’t chip or break apart

Cons

  • The tang may wear out over time
  • The curve on the handle isn’t as pronounced as what other models feature

8. Thrower Supply Polished Competition Spike 19” Tomahawk – Lightweight and Strong

CHECK PRICE

At about 26 ounces, this throwing axe from Thrower Supply provides a full body that is easy to wield and use. The handle adds a good touch too. The all-wood handle offers a solid body that is easy to grip.

The oversized blade features a bright shine that makes it ideal to show off to anyone you know. But the 3.75-inch blade also provides a firm body that will not dull or wear over time. The layout holds a good look that is easy to carry and handle. The hand-forged design ensures a full body that will not tarnish or wear over time.

The blade is on a spot on the top part of the stick. The tang features a solid layout that keeps the blade from slipping off over time. The design ensures that the tomahawk can be used for years to come in various events.

Pros

  • Easy to carry
  • The handle is well-sanded and will not cause splinters
  • Produces a bright shine all around

Cons

  • The weight is not balanced as well
  • No real curve on the handle

9. CRKT Woods Chogan Tomahawk Axe – Intense For Many Purposes

CHECK PRICE

Many throwing axes are also useful for outside purposes. The CRKT Woods Chogan Tomahawk Axe features a good look that is useful for many purposes.

The blade curve features a deep layout that will go into even the hardest targets. The smooth handle lets you grip the axe without feeling uncomfortable as you go forward.

A careful balance appears throughout the axe body. The weight features a combination of both a firm base on the back end and a slim blade on the other part. The sharp blade cuts through fast at this area. The design provides an aerodynamic approach to throwing. You’ll appreciate how well the axe can go through the target.

The axe can also work for many small tasks, including cutting and trimming. The firm body is easy to clean off after anything you do with it.

Pros

  • Easy to sharpen
  • Does not tear apart or wear with regular use
  • The connection on the top provides a firm body

Cons

  • Can become overly sharp in moments
  • The included leather sheath feels loose and could open with ease

10. MTech USA Tomahawk Blade Survival Camp Axe – An Easy Hold

CHECK PRICE

Your last option to see for a throwing axe is this model from MTech. The axe has a black rubberized handle with a nylon fibre body. The design is comfortable and keeps its hold in your hands without feeling sticky or loose. The black layout mixes well with the stainless steel blade at the top. There are also a few grooves and other bends around the handle that add a sturdy body.

The thick blade provides a good body for target practice. The stainless steel body does not rust or wear. The weight balance is also even all around to promote a better throwing arc all around.

There are also a few bolts all around the handle. The bolts go up to the tang to produce a firm and secure connection. The axe will stay intact and won’t be at risk of wearing out or becoming loose with regular use.

Pros

  • The grooved handle fits most hands
  • The back end features a strong point
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • The included sheath is rather small
  • The bolts on the inside part aren’t easy to adjust

Buying Guide for Best Throwing Axe 

Things To Look Out When Buying a Throwing Axe

Handle

The handle should be easy enough to grip. The handle can feature a wooden or metal body. Some handles also come with grooved surfaces to provide a better all-around grip.

Handle Length

A long enough handle should help you in keeping a good grip on the throwing axe. But the handle shouldn’t be too lengthy. Your throw will be slower if the handle is longer. You’ll need extra force for a long-handle axe to ensure it moves through well.

Weight

The weight of your throwing axe or tomahawk should be light enough to where you can propel the axe well enough. The axe will be measured in ounces for a more precise review.

There are two weight standards in most throwing competitions. First, a competition may entail axes that weigh between 600 to 800 grams, or 21 to 28 ounces. Second, a slightly larger axe of 1000 to 1500 grams or 35 to 52 ounces may work for championship rounds or tiebreaker events.

Like with the length, the weight also influences how much power is necessary when throwing the axe. The axe moves slower if it weighs more.

Lighter options that are well under 21 ounces are also available. These smaller axes are useful for newcomers who are getting used to how well one of these axes might work. But they aren’t necessarily for competitive events. You can still use them for practice and training.

Tang

The tang is the spot on the axe where the head links to the handle. A screw should appear on the tang to connect the two spots. Sometimes the tang features a consistent body where the head is affixed over the handle or features with a one-piece layout.

Blade Design

The blade should be long enough to where it can hit a target well. The blade can be about two to four inches in most cases.

A butt end feature may also appear on the other side of the blade, although that part doesn’t have to be sharp. Not all throwing axes will have such features.

A small hole may appear near the end of the blade. The hole is for aerodynamic purposes, as it produces an open area for air to move through when throwing the axe.

The blade mass should also be consistent all around. There needs to be a sense of balance to where the axe does not favour one half. A consistent layout ensures a better throw that moves fast and evenly.

How Do You Handle and Throw a Throwing Axe?

You would have to be cautious when handling a throwing axe. There a few steps to use when using a throwing axe:

1. You must start by keeping a firm grip on the handle, like what you’d put on a baseball bat. You must keep both hands on the shaft. The blade should also be positioned straight in the direction of the target. Avoid rotating the blade to the left or right, so the axe will continue moving towards the target.

2. Move the axe back over your head. The positioning should be like when you’re throwing a soccer ball inbounds.

3. Lean slightly back to support the axe. Continue to keep the blade straight towards the target without rotating to one position.

4. Move the axe forward over your head. You should do this quickly to ensure the axe moves forward.

5. Release the axe as your arms are stretched out in front of your body. The axe should be released to the target.

What About a One-Handed Approach?

You could also consider a one-handed throwing motion, although this is best for those who have a little more experience. The practice involves swinging your arm down on the side and then bringing the arm up quickly after it passes your leg. You’ll then move the axe forward and release the axe on the followthrough. The effort should include the proper aim and enough force to allow the axe to move quickly and rotate well.

Throwing Axe Maintenance Tips 

The axe should be appropriately maintained to ensure it stays functional. There are multiple tips to use when caring for your throwing axe:

  • Be sure to sharpen the blade on occasion. Proper sharpening ensures the blade can stick in a target.
  • Brush off the handle to ensure it stays smooth and functional. You must ensure the handle doesn’t have anything coming off of its body. The point is critical for a wooden handle, what with it potentially causing splinters if not handled well.
  • Store your throwing axe in a proper sheath when not in use. Most axes and tomahawks include individual sheaths. The covering ensures the axe will stay secure and will not be exposed to anything on the outside while not in use.

Is It Used For Other Things?

Some companies that make throwing axes also promote them as items for survival or camping use. These could work as small handheld items for cutting purposes in the wild. The spike or butt end of an axe may also work for some cases where added force is necessary when securing or breaking an item.

Not all throwing axes have uses that go beyond throwing. But the ones that do can be more functional and useful for many things in life.

Safety Points When Handling a Throwing Axe

You must be cautious when using a throwing axe in any event. There are a few safety points to use:

  • You’ll need to be familiar with how well a throwing axe works before you compete in any event. Proper training and education are recommended. You can use this experience to see how to use an axe and to get an idea of what axe might work best.
  • Ensure there is enough clearance around the target. The clearance area near the target should be at least six feet. The total should be enough to ensure no one is at risk of harm.
  • Watch for how you sharpen the blade. You need to allow the blade to be clean enough to stick to a target. But sharpening it too much can cause it to become too strong to where it could cut you when you touch the edge.
  • The clothing you wear when throwing should fit well. You should not wear anything that might be loose or anything that can limit your mobility. You require a free range of motion to ensure the axe goes forward.
  • Brimmed hats should not be worn while throwing. A loose winter hat may be worn, provided that it does not interfere with the range of motion.
  • Be sure that the handle or shaft on the axe is easy to grip. Anything that might be slippery should not be handled.
  • The proper first aid materials should be on hand when using a throwing axe. Competitions often require proper first-aid resources to ensure the safety of all people involved.
  • Never attempt to throw an axe after drinking alcohol. Alcohol consumption can inhibit your ability to throw.
  • Any strings or other attachments on your axe should be removed before throwing. These extra items can inhibit the ability of the axe to move well.

Which axe is best for throwing target?

The best option for a throwing axe or tomahawk for your use is the SOG Tactical Throwing Hatchet. The helpful throwing axe features a useful design that is easy to grip. The physical layout features a balanced look that allows the axe to move through. The size is good enough for typical competitions without being overly bulky. These features make it useful for all people who are interested in competitions to try out.

Conclusion

A throwing axe or tomahawk can be fun to enjoy throwing. You will enjoy the thrill of a throwing competition. But you’ll also have to look at how well the axe works. You should also note how it’s built if you’re going to have the most success in any event. You must see how well the axe works and that you have something that you can handle without worry.

Leave a Comment