# The Axe Badger

> Axe throwing news, culture, reviews and ephemera.

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## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://theaxebadger.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Blog](https://theaxebadger.com/blog/): Axe throwing news, culture, reviews and ephemera.
- [Axe Bag tour](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-bag-tour/): Our axe bags are, I think, one of the most interesting elements of our sport. They can reveal so much about where an axe thrower has been, what they feel like they absolutely need, and how they're doing, mentally. So I decided to dig through my own bag and share the results with you fine
- [The freedom of an eff it league](https://theaxebadger.com/the-freedom-of-an-eff-it-league/): I'm having a downturn, dear reader. I'm having a struggle. It should come as no surprise to you that I'm not a very good axe thrower. I talk about it enough, certainly, and if you've ever bore witness to my throwing in person, you're well aware that I'm more of a vibes thrower than a
- [The IATF Shift and a rare moment of consideration](https://theaxebadger.com/the-iatf-shift-and-a-rare-moment-of-consideration/): Dear readers, it cannot often be said that I think before I publish a post. Point in fact (between us), I oftentimes write posts for this site over the course of...like...a half hour. I don't proofread. I don't check tenses or repeating word usage or any of that junk. I just think a thought, write
- [The NEW axe throwing vocabulary](https://theaxebadger.com/the-new-axe-throwing-vocabulary/): Axe throwing is a culture unto itself. No matter where you're from or your particular background, axe throwers, as a whole, have their own culture. The vests, the stickers. The day drinking and superstitions. It's all part of the tiny nation that is axe throwing. In an effort to catalog and share all of the
- [The Huck Dynasty Grows](https://theaxebadger.com/the-huck-dynasty-grows/): Boutheina and Rob (and Maya, if we're looking at the whole picture) are some of the most well known, well-loved people in axe throwing. They've shaped the sport's community and competition in ways that few others can claim. So it came as no surprise (but lots of excitement) that they recently shared new, planned ownership
- [Axe App Review: Throw Better](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-app-review-throw-better/): As part of expanding the usefulness of this blog (and fulfilling some requests from Reddit users), I went ahead and dove into the world of axe throwing apps. For those of you who don't know, there are a handful of apps designed for axe throwers to practice/develop/learn/track their progress in the sport. For this axe
- [The 12 best axe throwing tips I've ever heard: a list](https://theaxebadger.com/the-12-best-axe-throwing-tips-ive-ever-heard-a-list/): Every thrower, from the eager first-timer to the grizzled, scarred (emotionally) veteran is a composite of every piece of advice they've received. We are the result of every helpful tip, every nonsensical piece of advice and every bullshit hot take; internalized and compiled into whatever-the-hell we are today. And now, dear throwkin, I'm going to
- [Tonight, I'm throwing my first league away from home. I have hopes.](https://theaxebadger.com/tonight-im-throwing-my-first-league-away-from-home-i-have-hopes/): Throwkin, I've decided to join a regular, 7-week league outside of my home base. And while there will be a bunch of throwers from the Meadery/VVOLFHEIM, I still have the feeling of doing something new/meeting new throwers/experiencing a new culture at the Drunken Smithy in Lebanon, PA. And I'm truly very hopeful about what can
- [Axe Thrower interview: whimsical ass pain](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-whimsical-ass-pain/): It’s story time, dear throwkin! Story time! Find your carpet squares and join me in the circle! So last year, after Jacky won the standard tournament, I did a little interview. It was a good one, and I was so excited to post it. And I did, dear reader! But in the move to new
- [7 axe throwing movie posters](https://theaxebadger.com/7-axe-throwing-movie-posters/): Sometimes I daydream. And when I do, sometimes I make up axe throwing movie posters. Now you get to experience it, too!
- [Watch This: The Power of Silly Manifestation in Axe Throwing](https://theaxebadger.com/watch-this-the-power-of-silly-manifestation-in-axe-throwing/): I've discovered a secret in axe throwing, and the secret is to be a silly goober and fake absolute confidence. Learn about the "Watch This" method!
- [League Runner Interview: Nick](https://theaxebadger.com/league-runner-interview-nick/): Check out this interview with League Runner Nick, who took a little bit of time to talk with me about axe throwing at Drunken Smithy
- [The First Drunken Smithy Marathon League](https://theaxebadger.com/the-first-drunken-smithy-marathon-league/): On this Saturday last, I had the chance to attend the very first Drunken Smithy Marathon League, and boy howdy, it was a good one. The environment, the actual operation of the thing, the competition -- it was all just...I dunno...it made me excited about axe throwing in a way I kinda forgot about. For
- [a new way to throw axes: throwteams](https://theaxebadger.com/a-new-way-to-throw-axes-throwteams/): Okay. Okay listen. Look and listen. Sometimes I have thoughts just before falling asleep, and I scroll out these ideas on a little notepad and wake up to see what that thought was. Most times, these ideas are absolute nonsense. But sometimes -- sometimes -- they are pretty fun. In this case, I dreamt up
- [The Next Three Throwing Axe Evolutions](https://theaxebadger.com/the-next-three-throwing-axe-evolutions/): We at Axe Badger Central Command have been hard at work expanding our internal department operations. Yes, the Axe Badger dept. of Romance gets the highest amount of budget due to the resources necessary for Throwingtimes cards -- and lots of time goes toward the Dept. of Axepirations. But all of these departments are a
- [Bullet Meets Foot: How the sport of axe throwing is hurting itself](https://theaxebadger.com/bullet-meets-foot-how-the-sport-of-axe-throwing-is-hurting-itself/): A lesser-known but prevalent game within all of axe throwing, is considering why the sport isn't growing. Covid really did a number. It's boring to watch. We don't have enough drama. The list is ere growing. But I think one of the largest factors is one that, well, we don't really discuss enough: Why the
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Spicy Ride](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-spicy-ride/): Spicy Ride, Allan, is a staple of the Urban Baltimore scene. He is one of the first non-meadery throwers I met, and he’s proven to be an insightful, friendly and inspiring person since that meeting so many years ago. We caught up outside of BATL Stockyards late one night during IATC. Fair warning: I was
- [The Long Defeat: Finding purpose when outmatched in a tourney](https://theaxebadger.com/the-long-defeat-finding-purpose-when-outmatched-in-a-tourney/): (featured image courtesy of Love n' Axes. I was exhauuusted.) Gang. Dear readers. Throwkin. It should come as no great surprise to any of you that I'm not an amazing thrower. Sure, I do alright. I've got some achievements under my ever-widening (from gravy, not achievements) belt. But I'm not, you know, anywhere close to
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Sarah](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-sarah/): I remember the very first time I saw Sarah in action – 3 years ago at IATC. She was equal parts confident and calm as she was brimming with energy and authority. When I saw her jump up on a pool table to deliver the starting announcements for IATC 2026, I knew I needed to
- [Urban Open 2026 is almost here. I feel weird about it.](https://theaxebadger.com/urban-open-2026-is-almost-here-i-feel-weird-about-it/): Urban Open is, I think, my favorite event of the axe throwing calendar. Outside of maybe the U.S. Champs? Truthfully I think the two swap places for number 1 and number 2, with Choptober taking up the next spot down. And, behold: Urban Open 2026 is this week! But this year, and truthfully I don't
- [LOOK OUT For These 6 Axe Scam Texts.](https://theaxebadger.com/look-out-for-these-6-axe-scam-texts/): Only a few know it, but--contractually--I'm obligated to make axe throwers aware of current axe scams and data-mining efforts by nefarious agents. Yes, it's a thankless job and yes, it takes away from my time otherwise writing entertaining posts for your little, ferret-y eyes. But as an axe-throwing news source, I understand the importance of
- [The IATF Identity crisis: Are we a sport, a hobby, or still an experiment?](https://theaxebadger.com/the-iatf-identity-crisis-are-we-a-sport-a-hobby-or-still-an-experiment/): I'm pretty sure the majority of my dear readers are aware of the hub-bub happening between the organization of the IATF and the throwers of the IATF, but just for the sake of setting up my work space: After IATC 2026, the IATF sent out an email indicating they'd be sending out payments for top
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Viper](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-viper/): Viper introduced herself to me my very first day of IATC, and I was immediately charmed by her wide-open kindness and warmth. It became apparent that she, like a lot of venue owners I’ve met, has that gift of creating community wherever she finds herself. During this axe thrower interview, we talked about the importance
- [Tuesday Top Tip: Be A Little Goblin Sometimes](https://theaxebadger.com/tuesday-top-tip-be-a-little-goblin-sometimes/): There's a lot of drama here in the axe world right now. People getting frustrated at the IATF. People giving the side-eye to throwers who defer. People talking mad trash when throwers celebrate too much. But here's a top tip from me to you, dear reader: don't get grumpy. Get Goblin-y. Now, you may ask
- [Axe Thrower Interview: BOOM 🧨 BOOM](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-boom-🧨-boom/): I’ll say this about BOOM 🧨 BOOM: they are one of the most prepared interviewees I’ve encountered. Given they have a background in sports-related interviews, I felt entirely like I was a rookie reporter for a middle school newspaper trying to get some answers from an NFL captain. Anyway, during this axe thrower interview, BOOM
- [5 Unwritten Rules of Axe Throwing](https://theaxebadger.com/5-unwritten-rules-of-axe-throwing/): Before we get started with the 5 unwritten rules of axe throwing, I have a couple announcements to share with those dear readers gathered here today. Just two little milestones to share: First, this is the 300th post on The Axe Badger, which is pretty amazing when you consider that this whole site started a
- [Fun no matter what: A warning at the center of axe throwing](https://theaxebadger.com/fun-no-matter-what-a-warning-at-the-center-of-axe-throwing/): I don't think it's a revelation to state that axe throwing has a strong group personality -- that there is an almost manic-level of community belief that it's all, and always, a blast. We joke about the cost of it, about the trials of travel, about throwing better and sucking less -- and at the
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Nessa](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-nessa/): Nessa and I have tried to sit down/stand up/walk around for an axe thrower interview for the past year and a half. Each time, something stopped us from actually doing the thing - but we finally found the time at Countess this year. We talked about the Countess Cup, the value of women/femme/minority engagement in
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Maydayy Maydayy!](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-maydayy-maydayy/): This was the very first axe thrower interview I did at IATC 2026, and it shows: I didn't really ask many follow up questions, stuck to what I wrote down (frantically) on the trip to Port Lands, and (in listening to the recording), I was hella nervous about speaking to a person. But, alas, Maydayy
- [IATC 2026 Photos: Under 60, under 70, CBNC and Slayer](https://theaxebadger.com/iatc-2026-photos-under60-under70-cbnc-slayer/): As many of you know, this year I was lucky/fortunate/blessed enough to have my partner, Mollie, come along for a full week of IATC 2026 shenanigans. But not just to eat a bunch of food and drink a lot and take in the sights. No, in fact, Mollie is a professsshhh photographer, and that meant
- [My Axe Venue Is Closing: Long Live Meduseld!](https://theaxebadger.com/my-axe-venue-is-closing-long-live-meduseld/): The Meadery, after seven (?) years of hosting some form of axe throwing or another, is shutting its hall on Sunday. As far as axe venues go, it's a tiny place - just 4 axe lanes. We could only do big axe on one side, because the other side had HVAC ductwork. The boards were
- [Happy 3-year anniversary to the axe badger!](https://theaxebadger.com/happy-3-year-anniversary-to-the-axe-badger/): Welp, we've managed it for another year. Somehow, despite all of the factually-inaccurate posts, absurd drivel and syrupy earnestness over a sport where we throw things at wood, we've managed to hit another anniversary. As is my right, I'm going to use this occasion to talk about how this blog has made it so far
- [Be the loudest voice: pressure vs points in axe throwing](https://theaxebadger.com/be-the-loudest-voice-pressure-vs-points-in-axe-throwing/): So I've taken up a bad habit. But really just with one thrower: whenever I'm throwing against Joypocalypse, I tell her she's a coward for staying down for points (which, to be absolutely fair, she only really does during tourneys). Axe throwing has a lot of...I dunno...cultural pressure, for the 100% clutch league/marathon/whatever. When people
- [Axe Throwing Stickers are Over. Here are 7 replacements](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-throwing-stickers-are-over-here-are-7-replacements/): Axe throwing stickers are all the rage. But for me? I'm raging against these sticky, sinister collectibles. Here are seven alternatives that just make sense.
- [Listen Often, Apply Rarely: The Boon and Curse of Axe Throwing Advice.](https://theaxebadger.com/listen-often-apply-rarely-the-boon-and-curse-of-axe-throwing-advice/): When I started throwing axes, I was blown away by how quickly (and readily) more experienced throwers were willing to help me get better via axe throwing advice. I think my very first match, Trevor (yes, I remember) basically stopped during the 2nd round to coach me a bit on foot position and how to
- [The Protect The Dolls Axe Tourney](https://theaxebadger.com/the-protect-the-dolls-axe-tourney/): Hey, dear reader! I'm not one to promote a specific axe tourney, but honestly, I have no idea why I don't. Seems like a service I should provide. A little benefit. So when Nessa reached out and brought this one to my attention, it seemed like a natural fit. The Protect The Dolls Pride Extravaganza
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Queen HBO](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-queen-hbo/): Queen HBO to many, Adeline to...just as many(?), and axe throwing wonder to most. Adeline already has a very accomplished axe throwing career, and community impact. 1/3rd of An Axe League of Their Own, 2nd place finisher at IATC '26, and recent winner of the Countess Cup, this thrower is well on her way to
- [IATC 2026: The Good, The Bad, The Poutine.](https://theaxebadger.com/iatc-2026-the-good-the-bad-the-poutine/): Dear reader, where to even start. IATC 2026 was, for me, the largest series of axe throwing days I've experienced. I flew up on Tuesday and started watching/talking/covering/not sleeping in earnest on Wednesday. Meaning I experienced the glory of our sport for five days. Five days! This post isn't gonna be the in-depth, photo-rich one
- [Axe Tap Types: A Study](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-tap-types-a-study/): Since long ago, in ancient times, axe throwers have tapped their axes together at the beginning of a match to signify mutual respect, comradery, and to make that delightful ringing sound for all to hear. Unfortunately, this aspect of axe throwing has rarely been studied or discussed, and I for one will not stand by
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Lemons](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-lemons/): Lemons, an owner of RIOT Axe, once grounded me in a big way when I was kinda spiraling at an axe thowing tourney. I kinda used this interview as an excuse to tell her that (after like, a year), because it's important to tell people when they've done something wonderful and unexpected. But I guess
- [5 Axe Throwing Scams That, Frankly, I'm Amazed Don't Exist Already](https://theaxebadger.com/5-axe-throwing-scams-that-frankly-im-amazed-dont-exist-already/): Wherever you have people enjoying something, you will have other people trying to make a buck on it. And while this isn't a blog that discusses the nature of free-reign capitalism or how all war is class war, this is a blog that delves deep into fleeting thoughts I have while waiting for my dandruff
- [What do we do with Loss in this sport?](https://theaxebadger.com/what-do-we-do-with-loss-in-this-sport/): Yesterday, I saw a series of posts about the death of Danté Dunn - Peachy D. in the axe world - a thrower I'd seen and chatted with almost exclusively at Urban Baltimore though he was from Cincy. He was, like many people in axe throwing, a personality unto himself. A guidepost that let me
- [handle maker interview: goose](https://theaxebadger.com/handle-maker-interview-goose/): Goose is one of those legends in the sport. Throwing out of the Range in Southern Alberta, Goose has been at it since 2018 and, in that time, 81 Axes become one of the most recognizable handle makers in the western hemisphere (maybe the world?). I've admired his work for a very long time, but
- [Thinking about axe throwing vs thinking about the axe throw.](https://theaxebadger.com/thinking-about-axe-throwing-vs-thinking-about-the-axe-throw/): Here's the thing about any conversation with P.K.: it inevitably results in at least one of us considering the deep, secret truths about axe throwing. Philosophical level, I mean. The stuff that, were it to escape from the confines of a venue and make its way onto the street, would result in the "normals" throwing
- [180-ish photos from Countess Cup 2026](https://theaxebadger.com/180-ish-photos-from-countess-cup-2026/): I had the great fortune of tagging along with Joypocalypse to watch the 2026 Countess Cup at the new Choppers in Philly. It was a relatively quick day for me, as we attended the Saturday festivities only -- but wowee, it was terrific. I tried to be a little more, uh, reserved with the amount
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Poptart](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-poptart/): I've admired Poptart for a long while, now, but hadn't worked up the courage to ask her for an interview until this year. Outside of having the best fits in the game, Poptart also, clearly, does axe throwing her way -- maintaining a two-handed style (and making it work exceptionally well) in a sea of
- [My Big IATC Plans and Schemes](https://theaxebadger.com/my-big-iatc-plans-and-schemes/): With IATC 2026 a mere month away, I've decided to really buckle down and prepare for my third trip to Hogtown. You may be thinking I'm in the same boat, Badger! I've been practicing my big axe and my Premier Clutches and and and. No. No I don't mean that at all. I'm preparing in
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Dreadz! And introducing our newest correspondent.](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-dreadz-and-introducing-our-newest-correspondent/): It is my sincere pleasure to welcome Niffler to the Axe Badger writing room. Niffler kindly reached out to me a little while ago offering her services, and I was beyond stoked to welcome her to the clubhouse. Here's her first story (an axe thrower interview with Dreadz) from the UK: Hey friends! I’m Niffler
- [About the IATC Jersey Thing](https://theaxebadger.com/about-the-iatc-jersey-thing/): Update: After this post published, the IATF reversed the decision to require jerseys this year. You can read their statement here. I kinda waffled on writing anything about this IATC jersey topic. For one, the way it blew up on the axe socials pretty much means writing anything about it is a bit overplayed. For
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Miss Julia](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-miss-julia/): I don't know that I met Julia before the U.S. Championships, but what an introduction she made! During the Adeline Cup, she used a whole lotta skill and determination to reach 2nd place -- the entire time being laser-focused on each and every throw. After the awards were awarded and the pictures were pictured, I
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Nikki "Penikillin" Miller](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-nikki-penikillin-miller/): I’ve had the good fortune of talking to Nikki a few times over the years as various tourneys, so I decided to just go ahead and get it on the record. “It” being an interview – not Nikki. They were kind enough to sit down with me during the U.S. Championship tourney weekend. We talked
- [Axe thrower interview: Pops](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-pops/): I've looked up to Pops since before I started throwing in a league. In fact, it'd be safe to claim that he's the reason I solidified my interest in the sport. When I first learned of axe throwing, I did the normal Millenial thing of looking up everything I could online - and there wasn't
- [IATC Round 1: Consequences, Accountability and the cost of progress](https://theaxebadger.com/iatc-round-1-consequences-accountability-and-the-cost-of-progress/): If you're even a little active on axe throwing social media (first, God help you), you're aware at this point of the fall out from the IATF's decision to disqualify throwers from BATL and Celtic Axe due to throwing outside of the 3-day, IATC Round 1 window. Now, I don't know if I can really
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Huckabella](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-huckabella/): Huckabella is easily one of the most well loved people in the sport. She is kind, competitive, and part of an axe throwing dynasty that's shown it's possible to be friendly and fierce. This interview was a quick one, but that's mostly because Huckabear started throwing in the middle of it, and Huckabella was a
- [The Honor Of Being The Villain.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-honor-of-being-the-villain/): Axe throwing is an underdog's sport. We, as a collective, typically cheer for the person who is less likely to win. We celebrate personal achievements. We hoot and hollar when a new thrower hits a clutch, and clap sensibly when a veteran gets yet another 81. And if you're accepting all of that above, I'll
- [Throw Better? No. Throw However.](https://theaxebadger.com/throw-better-no-throw-however/): If you've spent even one drunken hour throwing in a league, you've likely bumped into one of the unofficial slogans of axe throwing. No, not "Premier is dumb" and no, not necessarily "I'm getting a new axe and I swear, this one is gonna be the last one I buy. I'm all set after this
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Queen Bee](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-queen-bee/): I met up with Queen Bee at the U.S. Championship this year, and interviewed her JUST before she had an amazing match with Canexican - I feel like the interview would have been different had it happened just after that match, but here's an axe thrower interview with a person who was just about to
- [a new custom axe throwing product!](https://theaxebadger.com/a-new-custom-axe-throwing-product/): The IATF isn't the only multi-national organization that can come out with premium products for this goofy sport. Point in fact, I think we here at Axe Badger HQ are uniquely positioned to make a custom axe throwing product for the masses. I'm so happy to announce that, after minutes in Adobe Express years of
- [Tourney report: US Championships, gifts, kindness, the blood god.](https://theaxebadger.com/tourney-report-us-championships-gifts-kindness-the-blood-god/): We're now a fair distance from the U.S. Championship events of 2026, and after allowing my noodle-y brain process everything that happened, I'm ready to share some of the highlights, what was wonderful, and what was less-than-stellar. Think of this write-up as a sort of, hmm...,sort of a Kerouacian, free-association sort of highlights reel. EXCEPT
- [Axe Thrower Interview: the Mattador](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-the-mattador/): This dude oozes cool. Calm. I'd seen him around/chatted with him before, but after the person he was with declined an interview (the first time that's happened to me -- which I'm still reeling from, honestly), I decided to do the least cool thing I could: asked if he'd be up for one, instead. He
- [Axe Thrower interview: Derv](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-derv/): I met Derv for the first time at ChillAxe (her home venue), just after watching a match. She has a very wild kinda throw (two handed, full send) and that was just enough for me to think to myself “hey, I bet this human would be fun to talk to.” And yes, dear reader, I
- [670 ish photos from the 2026 U.S. championship](https://theaxebadger.com/670-ish-photos-from-the-2026-u-s-championship/): My sweet, dear reader. You know what time it is. It's too many, not-really-very-good photos time from yer ol' pal badger. At first, I planned to separate out each individual event into their own little section, but after a breakneck few days of getting rid of the blurry/ULTRA junky photos (there were about 3K of
- [I could use some help](https://theaxebadger.com/i-could-use-some-help/): If you've been any sort of reader of this site, you know that I'm not some independently-wealthy, landed gentry. No, I'm just a writer who, like most of us, needs to consider how buying classic or deluxe Kraft Mac N' Cheese will affect my financial outlook in six months. You'll also be aware, no doubt,
- [US Champs is this week, and I'm ultra-stoked, now.](https://theaxebadger.com/us-champs-is-this-week-and-im-ultra-stoked-now/): The first time I went to ChillAxe, I was greeted by kindness and love and joy and realized the place Rob and Dina built was, probably, the very best thing axe throwing had to offer. Smash cut to this year (specifically, maybe a week ago?), and for some reason I just wasn't feeling as many
- [Dear Clutchy: I don't enjoy larger axe Throwing Tournament Weekends - help!](https://theaxebadger.com/dear-clutchy-i-dont-enjoy-larger-axe-throwing-tournament-weekends-help/): Dear Clutchy, The U.S. Championship is coming up next week, and lots of my league friends are going. They want me to come along, but I don't want to spend lots of money to just go 0-2, pay for lodging, pay for food, and get stressed out over how well I throw. How can I
- [I refuse to explain any of these: axe throwing ideas that never got past stage 1](https://theaxebadger.com/i-refuse-to-explain-any-of-these-axe-throwing-ideas-that-never-got-past-stage-1/): I get a lot of ideas, at times. Sometimes from what other axe throwers say, sometimes from the middle point between waking and sleeping. But those little ideas, well, they often don't materialize into complete, full-fledged posts. They need to go somewhere. They need to pain you, dear reader, as much as they've pained me.
- [Creating the PERFECT axe throwing sticker](https://theaxebadger.com/creating-the-perfect-axe-throwing-sticker/): Every sport has its own, insider culture. For Basketball, it's the shoes. For football, the...uh...gl...gloves? For Ice Hockey it's the amount of teeth you collect from opposing teams. For us? The axe throwing sticker. These cute little fellers have become something of a currency in our hobby/sport (our spobby), and much like the Lisa Frank
- [I LOVE standard - but premier made me a better axe thrower](https://theaxebadger.com/i-love-standard-but-premier-made-me-a-better-axe-thrower/): I'm a Standard girlie. Through and through. It feels more like the spirit of axe throwing to me: immensely fun, not-so-serious, and forgiving of little mistakes. Point in fact, I didn't even bother with Premier as an axe thrower until I was forced to via IATF tourneys away from the Meadery. Performance in those tourneys
- [10 Throwingtimes cards for your clutch-heart](https://theaxebadger.com/10-throwingtimes-cards-for-your-clutch-heart/): Valentine's day is almost here, but that means only one thing for axe throwers: It's also almost Throwingtime's day! A day to celebrate the love, like, and longing we all feel for each and every axe thrower in the universe. Fortunately, you needn't worry about finding the perfect card for your favorite throwkin out there!
- [Four axe throwers I hate: A list.](https://theaxebadger.com/four-axe-throwers-i-hate-a-list/): Listing axe throwers I hate is a great way to, you know, sink this blog. But I'm tired of the act. I'm tired of the hugs and the smiles and the support and all that junk. I'm tired of acting like the axe throwing community absolutely, without question, loves every single person in it.That we,
- [10 top tips for what to do with your free hand while throwing axes.](https://theaxebadger.com/10-top-tips-for-what-to-do-with-your-free-hand-while-throwing-axes/): There's a big issue in our sport: what the hell, exactly, are you supposed to do with your off-hand when throwing axes? There isn't a single bit of consistency in this sport to guide us, and frankly, I'm sick of guessing.
- [The allure of cheap axes: it's about freedom.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-allure-of-cheap-axes-its-about-freedom/): The most expensive axe I've bought, and I'm not too proud to admit it, was about 400 bucks. A Northern Axeworks big axe. It's beatiful. I've bought a few hatchets for $300 from Kevin Bradley, a few more around the 150-200 mark, and every single one of 'em was beautifully crafted and very enjoyable. However,
- [Axe Throwing League Trophies: going big.](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-throwing-league-trophies-going-big/): Friends. Dearest sweet thowkin. Axe throwing league trophies were very hit-or-miss at my local venue. Not so much the prizes (which are pretty generous, truth be told), but a physical marker of achievement? It really came down to whether someone wanted to make one or not - that person often being me. But sometimes I
- [The Axe Badger is dead. Long live The Axe Badger.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-axe-badger-is-dead-long-live-the-axe-badger/): Well. Listen. Look and listen. The Axe Badger is dead. I don't want to go too much into the detail of it, but The Axe Badger was...struggling. I couldn't afford the price of hosting, nor of the website itself. Point in fact, the cost of the ding dang thing was increasing every year, and the
- [Practicing for IATC Round 1: some tips.](https://theaxebadger.com/practicing-for-iatc-round-1-some-tips/): Round 1 is, in my humble opinion, one of those absolutely goofy, wildly unique elements of throwing in the IATF. That's saying a lot, considering the other hallmarks of this sport is handing out stickers and alcoholism. Love it or hate it, Round 1 is a singular opportunity to lock in your chance at heading
- [IATF to announce new safety equipment requirement for 2026.](https://theaxebadger.com/iatf-to-announce-new-safety-equipment-requirement-for-2026/): In an attempt to draw sponsorship from larger sports brands and legitimize the sport in the eyes of the public, the IATF is considering a number of new, required safety protocols and equipment for 2026. An anonymous IATF insider shared with the Axe Badger Newsroom a number of possible equipment additions -- additions that will
- [Ye old axephorisms for a new axe throwing year.](https://theaxebadger.com/ye-old-axephorisms-for-a-new-axe-throwing-year/): For IATC last year, I handed out/hid little axephorism cards wherever I could, and I decided to start this year by creating twenty or so new ones. For those that don't know, an aphorism is a pithy little saying that's supposed to reveal a larger, universal truth. Think Benny Franklin's common sayings. You know. You
- [Why am I even here: A badger's guide to surviving a no good, very bad axe throwing marathon (and having fun doing it).](https://theaxebadger.com/why-am-i-even-here-a-badgers-guide-to-surviving-a-no-good-very-bad-axe-throwing-marathon-and-having-fun-doing-it/): I should have known about 10 minutes after waking up. All the signs were there, after all. Today (today being January 1st) was not the day for me to marathon. I wasn't ready for a marathon. I hadn't slept well, I didn't prep my bag or self. I was so sweepy and hungry and in
- [A year in review: how I did in my badgery goals.](https://theaxebadger.com/a-year-in-review-how-i-did-in-my-badgery-goals/): It’s the time of the year where one need look back on their achievements, failures, and over-expenditure vis a vis equipment for goofy sports. And me, dear reader, well, I’m no different. Though, In looking back through my dusty tomes, it seems like I failed to share any of my goals for 2025, which makes
- [Depression and Axe Throwing: a few suggestions for escaping yourself.](https://theaxebadger.com/depression-and-axe-throwing-a-few-suggestions-for-escaping-yourself/): Winter and the holiday season oftentimes can make emotions swing a disproportionate amount, compared to the rest of the year. Truth is, there are plenty of human brains out there affected by seasonal depression -- or just the melancholy of colder, darker months. Convincing your brain (either through therapy, or medication, or whatever works) is
- [A visit from Saint Clutchmiss](https://theaxebadger.com/a-visit-from-saint-clutchmiss/): Twas the night before Clutchmiss, no-one gave a crapbecause nobody was working, not even "that" app; The chalk bags were hung by the axe lane with care, filled with cig butts, for Saint Clutchmiss to share; Axe-kin were nestled all snug in folding chairs; While visions of prem clutches danced in the air, And Otter
- [Axepirational posters for challenging axe times.](https://theaxebadger.com/axepirational-posters-for-challenging-axe-times/): On Sunday, I threw in a marathon big axe league. Well, "threw" is a bit of a misnomer: I was there, and I chucked axes at a target, but I don't know if you'd qualify anything I did at that marathon as axe throwing. Because I finished pretty poorly, I doubt there is anything beneficial
- [The big problem with axe throwing (and maybe a solution)](https://theaxebadger.com/the-big-problem-with-axe-throwing-and-maybe-a-solution/): Axe throwing is great. It’s fun. The big thing people’ve (yeah, I made a new contraction. I don’t care) said during interviews and promo videos and thank you posts is that the axe throwing community is the real cherry inside the sundae. And that—as far as this humble badger has seen—is absolutely true. The axe throwing community
- [IT'S CLUTCHMISS! HAPPY CLUTCHMISS!](https://theaxebadger.com/its-clutchmiss-happy-clutchmiss/): YES! YES! GATHER ROUND DEAR THROWKIN! IT'S TIME! CLUTCHMISS IS HERE! Now, for those of you who don't pay attention to every fakakta idea I share here, Clutchmiss is a celebration for axe throwers that allows us to come together, appreciate each other, and make offerings to Clutchy for fewer missed clutches in the coming
- [Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: Marcus Artis (Throwdo Baggins)](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-marcus-artis-throwdo-baggins/): I think the first time I met Marcus was at Clutch Shot for a marathon league. He was quiet and very, very good. But he was also hella friendly and had one of the best stickers I'd seen in the sport. I had the chance to catch up with him at Choptober this year, and
- [Four tips to add axe throwing into your Thanksgiving traditions.](https://theaxebadger.com/four-tips-to-add-axe-throwing-into-your-thanksgiving-traditions/): HOLIDAY POST - HOLIDAY POST - GATHER ROUND ALL FOR A HOLIDAY POST! In a not-at-all-surprising move, I've written a generic "get some cheap clicks" post about how you, dear reader, can bring some axe throwing fun into your awkward, overcooked, stressed-out holiday traditions! Yes, Thanksgiving has become a minefield of conversation and appreciation, with
- [What happens now: where the blog could go.](https://theaxebadger.com/what-happens-now-where-the-blog-could-go/): The Axe Badger has gone from a tiny, little pet project where I satisfy my need to write about everything I'm doing into an internationally-read (cannot believe I'm serious about that) website. And while I'm still notching a lot of readership/getting recognized when I go places/getting awkward when I go places and get recognized, I
- [Axe Maker Interview/Review: Red Beaver Custom Axes](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-maker-interview-review-red-beaver-custom-axes/): The last* Choptober was more than the closing of one tradition and the beginning of the next. Yes, dear reader, I maintained my own tradition of buying an axe at the event, despite my stupid, pointless belief that I wouldn’t. The axe in question was in fact by a maker I didn’t have in my
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Babs, Regional Rep and Sheath Maker](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-babs-regional-rep-and-sheath-maker/): Babs, even before I started talking to him, struck me as the affable sort. A friendly demeanor, happy to carry a conversation on with anyone, and just generally into being a part of the tourney we were at. It was only one the second day that I realized 1. he was the rep from the
- [So long and see you soon: A farewell to the meadery's pro.](https://theaxebadger.com/so-long-and-see-you-soon-a-farewell-to-the-meaderys-pro/): We had the tourney finish for our Wednesday league this week, and at the end of it, before he left, Bob (our resident, objectively very best thrower) quietly announced he was done with leagues. Now, he left some room in that statement (adding a "for a while, maybe forever. We'll see." sorta cap on it),
- [Tips for learning a new axe throw: A half-assed series of lessons.](https://theaxebadger.com/tips-for-learning-a-new-axe-throw-a-half-assed-series-of-lessons/): For those of you who keep track of my adventures, you likely recall (or, if you're more like me, you don't remember at all) a post I did not too long ago talking about how I started developing a new-to-me throw. This throw, perfected by Dr. Ketamine, involves resting the axe on yer sholder like
- [366 pictures from Choptober 2025](https://theaxebadger.com/366-pictures-from-choptober-2025/): It's that time again! Here are 366 photos from the last Choptober in Cherry Hill. A few notes, as ever: If you see yourself in a picture and you don't want it to be here, reach out to me and I'll take it down, no questions asked. I am not a photographer. Well I mean,
- [The Last* Choptober: Revelations](https://theaxebadger.com/the-last-choptober-revelations/): There are, of course, the typical things. Eating free waffles at the Sleep Inn every morning. People whoo-ing across the venue, the sound moving like a murmuration of birds. Jell-o shots. But this was not just another Choptober. This was the last* Choptober. I didn't quite know how sentimental the whole event would become. If
- [Choptober is here. Time for spoop-tacular plans.](https://theaxebadger.com/choptober-is-here-time-for-spoop-tacular-plans/): Choptober is a cultural waypoint. A milestone of the axe throwing year, and a whole bunch of fun to boot. It's a time to catch up with folks, get a feel for the community at large, and, you know, dress up and be goofy. It's the biggest serious-not-serious tourney I've been to, and while I've
- [My first knife throwing league/tourney](https://theaxebadger.com/my-first-knife-throwing-league-tourney/): After owning a set of throwing knives for, like, a year and a half, I finally got the chance to use them in a league. After a very open, loosey-goosey sort of invitation, I gathered up my road dawg OtterGuy to travel due east to Cherry Hill, New Jersey, joining a lil' gang of miscreants
- [Tuesday talk: the ambiguous IATF step rule, and a few suggestions](https://theaxebadger.com/tuesday-talk-the-ambiguous-iatf-step-rule-and-a-few-suggestions/): Earlier today, I published a post about the value in pausing before your throw (to get an actual read on your position, making for a more accurate throw). I knew that pausing for too long (or, maybe at all?) was a violation of IATF step rule. but what I was suggesting (poorly) was a very
- [AALOTO Broken Calculators](https://theaxebadger.com/aaloto-broken-calculators/): Life is full of assumptions; it needs to be for us to function. Assumptions are just things we believe without having vetted them thoroughly. If we had to check, judge, verify, and evaluate every piece of information coming at us every day, we’d hardly ever make it out the front door, much less navigate the wider world. Mostly
- [A (great) update on the future of Chopper's](https://theaxebadger.com/a-great-update-on-the-future-of-choppers/): As of yesterday morning, Don Caro, third of his name, became the newest tenant of a previously-used axe house in south Philly. Don has high hopes that the new location will be operational very soon. Sure, there's some setup and adjustments necessary, but he's aiming for pre-November, which is pretty damned seamless, as far as
- [Join the 2025 Clutch-A-Thon!](https://theaxebadger.com/join-the-2025-clutch-a-thon/): Dear reader, sometimes a great plan just comes together. What makes a great plan? Well, bud, that's when doing something good is both easy to accomplish and fun. That's the recipe. And it seems like Ericka (Throwing Bows) has gone and figured out exactly that formula when she came up with the 2025 Clutch-A-Thon. The
- [Tiny axe thrower interview: Native](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-native/): Dear reader: maybe a year ago, I interviewed Native. But, me being me, I actually recorded nothing at all. It's a shame, as the entire interview happened in a rain storm, and it was very romantic/dramatic. But I had the good fortune of catching him again at the Urban Open this year, and we managed
- [Chopper's rejected all my tee shirt designs](https://theaxebadger.com/choppers-rejected-all-my-tee-shirt-designs/): The last Choptober (at Cherry Hill) is coming up, and as part of that bittersweet event, the axe house is running a little contest: a "Choptober Challenge" tee shirt design contest, to be exact about it. Well, you know full well I couldn't let the opportunity slip by without taking a stab at becoming the
- [The freedom of just donking an axe throwing season.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-freedom-of-just-donking-an-axe-throwing-season/): Well, I won't say I planned it this way, but here we are. Last week was the first of the newest Wednesday league at Meduseld Meadery. A time of possibility. Of renewed opportunity and, perhaps even, a chance to have a season unmarred by mistakes and missed clutches (at lease, fewer missed clutches). But as
- [The Axe Thrower's Perfected Diet: The Jester and the Banana.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-axe-throwers-perfected-diet-the-jester-and-the-banana/): When humankind looks back at its greatest leaps forward, certain names shine bright: Edison giving us the lightbulb, Curie unlocking the secrets of radiation, the Wright brothers teaching us to fly. And then, in the humid, high-pressure crucible of the Pacific Region’s axe-throwing tournaments, came another visionary - Jason “Jester” Howell. With nothing more than a
- [Axe Couples Counseling](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-couples-counseling/): If you could wager on "most common responses to a question posed to a community," I’d put the house on knowing the axe community’s most common answer to: “What’s your favourite thing about Axe Throwing?” “The people, the community, the friends I’ve made.” From tournaments to league nights, the one and done, to the casual bump into each
- [Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: Mighty Mouse](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-mighty-mouse/): I had a chance to speak with Mighty Mouse during the Urban Open this year. She, much like me, is the totally correct height of under 5'3", which made it important to me that we got a chance to chat. In this tiny axe thower interview, we discussed goals, welcome, and just enjoying skills tourneys
- [Heaven Sent: The Story of Priesty Axe Co.](https://theaxebadger.com/heaven-sent-the-story-of-priesty-axe-co/): Who doesn’t love a creator’s table at a tournament, especially one laden with high quality products? A standard feature at most of the Pacific Region’s big meets is the Priesty Axe Co stall, where you’ll find axe handles, head sheaths, a flip through book for different leather styles and colours to order custom sheaths, earrings,
- [A quick solve for our sport's longevity.](https://theaxebadger.com/a-quick-solve-for-our-sports-longevity/): Dear reader, I've been putting a lot of thought into how we, as a community, can ensure the survival of our sport. It's something most throwers, in some capacity, think about: is this sport gonna exist in 5 years? 10? What am I gonna do with all these ding-dang axes? Worry not -- the economists
- [Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: Ms. Marvel](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-ms-marvel/): I got the chance to speak with Ms. Marvel a day before we got to throw against each other in the Swiss Over tourney (a bracket I had absolutely no business being in) at Urban Open 2025. I learned a lot about her experiences in the sport, what keeps her involved in axe throwing, and
- [An announcement from Don and Chopper's Hatchet House](https://theaxebadger.com/an-announcement-from-don-and-choppers-hatchet-house/): Last night, Don (the recently-minted owner of Choppers Hatchet House) reached out to me over messenger. We don't interact much, really, and I kinda suspected the reason he'd be sending me a message on a Monday evening. For the sake of not keeping you in suspense, let me just say two things and then get
- [An exit interview.](https://theaxebadger.com/an-exit-interview/): I'm uncomfortable at Urban Open. Exhausted, really, even though it's only the first day. A mix of trying to photograph everything (while not being a photographer) and working up the nerve to ask people to talk with me for blog material. The stress of balancing frustrating interpersonal stuff alongside being wildly open and seen. Alex
- [Tiny axe thrower interview: Huckabear](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-huckabear/): This was my very first interview at Urban Open this year - one that I tried to secure during IATC but, alas, I ran out of time. HuckABear is well known in the sport and, by all accounts, a slayer. She was kind enough to take some time to chat with me, the results of
- [400 and 69 pictures from Urban Open 2025](https://theaxebadger.com/400-and-69-pictures-from-urban-open-2025/): Urban Open 2025 and come and gone, and I spent the greater majority of my time in those hallowed halls snapping away pictures. I think, in total, I had about 4k of them to go through. I managed to snickersnack that down to these 469. Now, my partner (who's a professional photographer) told me --
- [Throwing Axe Review: True Temper Dynamic](https://theaxebadger.com/throwing-axe-review-true-temper-dynamic/): Every so often I come across something where I'm surprised by both how uncommon it is, and by function. Like when I found a perineum glosser at a local antique store, or a pair of 32-waist pants in my closet. Sometimes it results in a good ol' throwing axe review.Now, many of you have no
- [No Sleeves. No Mercy. Get your axe throwing battle vest gang patch!](https://theaxebadger.com/no-sleeves-no-mercy-get-your-axe-throwing-battle-vest-gang-patch/): One of the best things to come out of axe throwing - outside of the deep sense of connection, achievement, and goofiness, is the axe throwing battle vest. It makes people outside of axe throwing think oh, geez, we got a real baddie right here. And it makes people inside the axe throwing community think
- [Tuesday Tip: Staying still and movement.](https://theaxebadger.com/tuesday-tip-staying-still-and-movement/): Nobody really taught me how to throw. At least, not actively. Not when I was first starting out. I've had just oodles of teachers. People I've looked up to. People I've mimicked and asked questions to and, for 30 minutes at ChillAxe, Dr. K took it upon herself to show me how she throws an
- [12 Bowling-esque animations to add some excitement to axe throwing](https://theaxebadger.com/12-bowling-esque-animations-to-add-some-excitement-to-axe-throwing/): AxeScores is...well...it's fine. And I'm sure the new app has a bunch of improvements. I'd guess about $2.99 a month's worth of improvements. But, for my part, I think one BIG improvement we can implement now as a community is adding some flair to our scorekeeping.There is perhaps no better example of this flair than
- [Stop the stat-stare: learning to enjoy the sport and not the metrics.](https://theaxebadger.com/stop-the-stat-stare-learning-to-enjoy-the-sport-and-not-the-metrics/): We've got a lot of delicious markers in axe throwing. An average patch. An 81 coin. Another 81 coin. Another one after that. Prolly another that I don't even know about. We've got AxeScores (sometimes) and can see (for now) how we've developed and regressed and improved or slid backward whenever we want (mostly). The
- [Belt as metaphor: An exercise in lateral thinking and axe throwing.](https://theaxebadger.com/belt-as-metaphor-an-exercise-in-lateral-thinking-and-axe-throwing/): I have a fair amount of body dysmorphia. Or, well, I guess I should be a bit more clear - I really don't like my body. They way it slops around everywhere it goes, the stout, wide nature of it. I've never much cared for the thing, even when I was at fighting weight and
- [A Confession: The Great British Heist](https://theaxebadger.com/a-confession-the-great-british-heist/): Hey folks, C-man here. I’ve got something different today. It’s been weighing on me, and I feel like it’s finally time to talk about it—even if it costs me. For I have been a part of a conspiracy I can no longer keep to myself, they may come for me by the time you read
- [3 hot, new axe throwing products you may have missed.](https://theaxebadger.com/3-hot-new-axe-throwing-products-you-may-have-missed/): It's hard enough keeping up with the important news these days, so keeping up with all the innovations coming out around our favorite little sport is almost impossible for a mom on the go. How can you keep up with the new, hot axe throwing products being released practically every day?!There's got to be a
- [Boosting your throwtential: Worth the risk and time](https://theaxebadger.com/boosting-your-throwtential-worth-the-risk-and-time/): Change can be scary. Maybe it's a new option at your favorite pizza place. Maybe it's when mom started bringing around a man who smelled like new floors and asked you to call him "pop." Maybe it's a new hairdo - whatever the thing is, chances are you'll have a little bit of trepidation about
- [IATC Interview: Dannie](https://theaxebadger.com/iatc-interview-dannie/): During one of my famous "there are too many people here and they are looking at me, probably" moments during IATC, Dannie, the contracted social media agent for the IATF, passed by and told me something kind and nice. Naturally, I turned that lovely human interaction into an opportunity to interview someone, because why would
- [IATC 2025 in about 120 pictures](https://theaxebadger.com/iatc-2025-in-about-120-pictures/): IATC 2025 happened this past weekend, and I've finally managed to dig out from all the sleepiness and content gathering to present to you, dear reader, the ~120 pictures that weren't absolute garbage (out of the ~2000 pictures I took. Trying to take photos as a writer is...humbling work. I imagine it's the same feeling
- [Post tourney blues - dealing with the drop.](https://theaxebadger.com/post-tourney-blues-dealing-with-the-drop/): It can strike almost instantly - in fact, it hit me just as we were crossing the border between New York and Pennsylvania (on the way back from Toronto) - the "drop." Having post-tourney-morbs is well documented in axe throwing. You spend time alongside all your friends, living la-vida-loca, and then just pop back into
- [I leave for IATC tomorrow. Here are my very badgery goals.](https://theaxebadger.com/i-leave-for-iatc-tomorrow-here-are-my-very-badgery-goals/): It just finally hit me that I'll be picking up Chøpman (my dad) and our son DaddyLongLegs (Brendan) around 6 in the morning tomorrow, beginning our trip to Toronto and the biggest axe throwing show in the world. Like, I've got the fidgets about it. And seeing as I'm not competing this year, I get
- [IATF too busy this week to notice growing rebellion.](https://theaxebadger.com/iatf-too-busy-this-week-to-notice-growing-rebellion/): In what appears to be a planned, coordinated act, a group of IATF throwers have launched a multi-faceted rebellion against the iron grip of the IATF. Calling themselves the IATF (Individual, Agitated Throwers Foundation), this group sprung to the spotlight this week, using the cover of IATC to overtake several IATF-affiliated axe venues in most
- [Today's Axe Thrower Horoscopes](https://theaxebadger.com/todays-axe-thrower-horoscopes/): There simply isn't enough prognostication in our sport, and I'm sick of it. Sure, there are lots of throwers out there who will predict how they'll do against other throwers - maybe even a few who can look into the ether and just know when someone's gonna get their first 81. But, truth be told,
- [Missing IATC 2025? Recreate the experience in 5 easy steps.](https://theaxebadger.com/missing-iatc-2025-recreate-the-experience-in-5-easy-steps/): IATC is, without a doubt, expensive. Now that it's a full week of events, the championship has become a major investment for, like 95% of throwers in the world. But, dear reader, we can't help but feel a real FOMO about missing the ding dang thing. So let's say you're in the very real situation
- [How we talk when we talk about coaching in axe throwing.](https://theaxebadger.com/how-we-talk-when-we-talk-about-coaching-in-axe-throwing/): It's a universal experience in axe throwing. A right of passage, almost: You get hooked, you start getting a little bit of experience, and (sometimes because you ask for it, or sometimes simply because people want to be helpful) suddenly you're getting 6 pieces of advice from 5 people. Bring in your elbow. straighten your
- [This is my 200th post - let me disagree with myself a lot and also say thank you.](https://theaxebadger.com/this-is-my-200th-post-let-me-disagree-with-myself-a-lot-and-also-say-thank-you/): Well, dear reader, we've reached yet another milestone on this blog: No, the IATF hasn't sent me a cease and desist letter, nor has a maker sent me a bunch of money and asked that I review their product "honestly" (though if anyone wants to send me a couple hundred, don't let my flippant behavior
- [An Axe Throwing Guided Meditation](https://theaxebadger.com/an-axe-throwing-guided-meditation/): Dear reader (listener?!), when I see that our dear community is lacking something, I try to be the person to dig deep and bring that missing something into the light. As it turns out, we are practically BEREFT of guided meditations. So with voice recorder and free audio in hand/ear, I went ahead and created
- [KEEP CALM AND CARRY AXES: an axe bag primer.](https://theaxebadger.com/keep-calm-and-carry-axes-an-axe-bag-primer/): hey come in all shapes and sizes, serve a function and occasionally deliver a sharp aesthetic. Our Axe bag says a lot about us if you think about it, but who’s got time for that? Not me man, I’m totes busy! So lets not have all that carry-on, instead let’s just look at what people
- [One Hundred and Fiftyish Pictures From Clutch Shot's 5/10 Marathon](https://theaxebadger.com/one-hundred-and-fiftyish-pictures-from-clutch-shots-5-10-marathon/): Still don't much feel like writing, yet - but I didn't want to be stickdead in the cosmos so I thought I'd at least offer up a bunch of photos from the Clutch Shot 5/10 tourney. Keep in mind: I'm a writer and one of my eyes doesn't really work, so go ahead and keep
- [The exclusive benefits of an open axe house culture.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-exclusive-benefits-of-an-open-axe-house-culture/): Dear reader, I'm sure you, like me, think a lot about the impacts of a tribalism mindset on our day-to-day lives. How we, being a communal species, create sub-groups and sub-sets of groups, and how all that club-housing makes for tight-knit, often exclusionary behavior. Like, I'm sure you think about that all the time. Just
- [Dear Clutchy: I donk critical throws, please help!](https://theaxebadger.com/dear-clutchy-i-donk-critical-throws-please-help/): Dear Clutchy,I've been throwing for a while now, and do pretty well in my league. But when tournament time comes around (or even when I'm throwing in a regular league and the score is close), it feels like I always miss VICs (Very Important Clutches) or even just get a 3 when a 5 was
- [Tearing down to build back: is relearning to throw worth the heartache?](https://theaxebadger.com/tearing-down-to-build-back-is-relearning-to-throw-worth-the-heartache/): Sometimes, dear reader, sometimes the universe just lines stuff up for you to notice. To get your attention. The universe, in all its immense, unknowable indifference, sends you a series of coincidences just to make sure you're picking up what it's putting down. And, for me anyway, it's nothing that ever really matters compared to
- [An Interview with Big Twig Podcast](https://theaxebadger.com/an-interview-with-big-twig-podcast/): Stewart Reeve (Stagger) and Matt Brown (Seven La Vide Loco, or Browny) host the Big Twig podcast, diving into axe-related topics important to the Pacific Region and beyond. They interview local throwers, review events, and spotlight local creators with a relaxed yet deeply knowledgeable style. Inspired by their expertise, I wanted to bring that into
- [I straight up quit an axe throwing marathon.](https://theaxebadger.com/i-straight-up-quit-an-axe-throwing-marathon/): I want to say I’m rarely a quitter, but I don’t know how true that statement really is. I do have gumption, for sure. It’s a fact - I won a tenacity award in college. I had a real Rudy sort of vibe in any high school sport I played. I am patient, I am
- [Knives Out: The New IATF Knife Throwing League, and what it really means.](https://theaxebadger.com/knives-out-the-new-iatf-knife-throwing-league-and-what-it-really-means/): The IATF announced yesterday (in an announcement telegraphed so far in advance it could have stopped the Titanic from hitting that iceberg) that knife throwing is now part of their bevy of throw-pointed-things repertoire. You can read all about it here. But I'm not gonna talk about that. Well, at least not in any way
- [The Axe Badger is canceled](https://theaxebadger.com/the-axe-badger-is-canceled/): Honestly, it's inevitable. At some point, whether it's tomorrow or 10 years from now (when axe throwing has been outlawed and I'm just running this site as some sort of performance art), I'm gonna make a big misstep. I'm going to have a hot take or use a phrase that is, absolutely, cancelable. But what
- [Axe Venue Interview: Rob and Dina, ChillAxe](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-venue-interview-rob-and-dina-chillaxe/): ChillAxe is something special. I, woefully, hadn't visited the western PA staple until this year, and I'm thrilled to say that all of the hype was absolutely true. Maybe even kinda not enough. Fortunately, Rob and Dina introduced themselves to me previously at Urban Baltimore, gave me a shirt, and made me feel much more
- [New throw. New axe? A story in 3 parts.](https://theaxebadger.com/new-throw-new-axe-a-story-in-3-parts/): For the past...I dunno...almost year or so, I've been throwing the same axes. They are lovely. I love them. And I like to think they love me, too. And if you've paid attention at all to this lil' novel I've crafted one post at a time, you'll know I have tried - tried so hard
- [Yeah. It was me.](https://theaxebadger.com/yeah-it-was-me/): Kat and I did some weekend scheming after she'd come up with the idea for a fun lil' prank post. I wrote it, she and Lisa then made up some graphics and there you go: flawless April Fools prank for the IATF.Honestly? Fun to have Kat reach out to me, and very fun to do
- [Tabletop Axe Throwing: Join the Adventure!](https://theaxebadger.com/tabletop-axe-throwing-join-the-adventure/): Hey friends, it's been a hot minute since I've been on your screens but fear not I'm back with a new concept that may or may not have ripped off feats from other media. Today I want to talk to you about the ultimate axe throwing game. Now I know what you're thinking: Wait C-man,
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Stormy Stormerson](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-stormy-stormerson/): I think the first time I watched Stormy throw was at IATC 2024. She had something like six matches back-to-back, and she was so focused in, it was like watching a highlight reel in real time. I've wanted to sit down with Stormy forever, but working up the courage to talk to someone who's name(s)
- [Dear Clutchy: I'm throwing in Round 1 - please help!](https://theaxebadger.com/dear-clutchy-im-throwing-in-round-1-please-help/): Dear Clutchy, I've decided to throw in Round 1 of the IATC - but I'm nervous about doing well enough to earn a spot in Round 2! My axe house was only given 3 spots, and I'm not the strongest thrower in any of my leagues. What can I do to maximize my score and
- [Axe thrower interview: Kimmy Supnet](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-kimmy-supnet/): Look. Listen. I am generally nervous about interviewing everyone. I don't particularly feel like anyone really wants to chat it up with me, and navigating the voice saying "you're inconveniencing people by even being seen by them," is a real struggle. But it was a bit different with Kimmy Supnet. For, you see - okay
- [The U.S. Championship in 200ish, early-2000's-digital camera style photos.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-u-s-championship-in-200ish-early-2000s-digital-camera-style-photos/): Gang, I know what I know. And I know I could drivel on about the experience of the Championship and all the little badgery lessons I learned (which I will do, no doubt) - but the day after a tourney is for pictures. So here they are, in all of their cheap-digital-camera glory. Enjoy the
- [The U.S. Axe Throwing Championship: what I will and won't do.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-u-s-axe-throwing-championship-what-i-will-and-wont-do/): The U.S. Championship is happening this weekend at ChillAxe, and your humble narrator will be heading on out that way Friday night to experience and compete in Saturday's festivities for the first time (both a first in attending the US Champs, and first time at ChillAxe). If my practice last night was any indication, my
- [Axe thrower(s) interview: the queens of Queensland.](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-throwers-interview-the-queens-of-queensland/): I’m still pretty new to this sport, and very new to tournaments. In the few I’ve been to I’ve been very impressed with the strength of the Queensland women’s talent pool. While there are femme-identifying throwers as strong in other states, it’s the number at the top of the game right now, as well as the bevvy of rising talent
- [Chalk Bags: Alternative Options for non-chalk users.](https://theaxebadger.com/chalk-bags-alternative-options-for-non-chalk-users/): It cannot be said that axe throwers don't like their accessories. Axe bags, sheaths, battle vests...we like looking the part and having all of the little doodads that identify us with our small, strange community. But sometimes the accessory doesn't quite match the need. To wit, I am currently using a rifle bag as an
- [The IATF has a unique problem. I'm here to solve it.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-iatf-has-a-unique-problem-im-here-to-solve-it/): One of the more surprising things revealed during the two Q&A sessions - at least for me - was how close the IATF was to releasing the new knife throwing portion of the business. As it was explained, including knives in the IATF is part of a multi-pronged approach to becoming financially independent from BATL,
- [I finished week 7 and there's a lonesome feeling.](https://theaxebadger.com/i-finished-week-7-and-theres-a-lonesome-feeling/): Maybe it's because of the music I'm listening to right now (The war is won, yet I am lost), or maybe it's because I finished out the league in 3rd place which, in my opinion, is the highest one can finish while still feeling like they didn't do very well, but whatever the reason, I
- [Tuesday tips: getting better means remembering the basics every throw.](https://theaxebadger.com/tuesday-tips-getting-better-means-remembering-the-basics-every-throw/): I'm a noticer. A pay-attention-er. I'm well known for being a little freak who stares at what people are doing like I'm some sort of time-traveler who doesn't know what's going on and is amazed by even the smallest, inconsequential thing. Partly because I'm so scared of engaging with any person, and partly because I'm
- [Valentine's Day cards for axe throwers](https://theaxebadger.com/valentines-day-cards-for-axe-throwers/): Listen. I know you forgot to pick up a card for your lovahhhh and that's okay. Heck, maybe you even forgot to pick up a Valentine's day card for your axe coach or your doubles partner. We at The Axe Badger have you covered! Here are...10 I guess...valentine's day cards for axe throwers to use
- [Rejected IATF App questions](https://theaxebadger.com/rejected-iatf-app-questions/): Tomorrow (Feb 12) at 5pm est, Commissioner Wilson is hosting a Q&A about the new IATF app: https://www.facebook.com/share/18mXm9rQF1/Throwers were encouraged to send questions to ol' Comish Wilson, and I jumped at the opportunity. Unfortunately, I apparently misunderstood what kind of questions the leaders of the IATF wanted, and Commissioner Wilson sent every single one of
- [Lesser-known axe throwing hand signals.](https://theaxebadger.com/lesser-known-axe-throwing-hand-signals/): We know the basics. Showing points. Indicating if you're going up or staying down, all that jazz. But there are a whole bevvy of axe throwing hand signals you're likely not using at all, and we here at The Axe Badger are nothing if not helpful. Unfortunately, I've got the 'vid, so I can't really
- [Axe throwing isn't dying, so stop thinking it is.](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-throwing-isnt-dying-so-stop-thinking-it-is/): Every few months I come across a fellow thrower or a post on faceflop about how axe throwing is taking its last, desperate puffs of a vape pen. And surely, on the surface, it makes sense to believe so; axe houses are shutting down, the sport isn't exactly growing in a way that would make
- [I messed up by thinking too much: a guide.](https://theaxebadger.com/i-messed-up-by-thinking-too-much-a-guide/): Yesterday was the fourth week of our Wednesday league. A day, dear reader, that I normally feel is a little special. A little treat during the week where I get to do something I'm fairly good at, enjoy the company of fellow goofs, and get the chance to do something that makes me feel accomplished
- [Axe care tips for people who don't know a damn thing about axe care.](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-care-tips-for-people-who-dont-know-a-damn-thing-about-axe-care/): The love that axe throwers have for their axes (and, subsequently, the hatred axe throwers can feel for an axe that doesn't "work" for them) is inescapable. We give them names, we talk to them between throws - hell, sometimes we (I, at least) take them out of my axe bag just to look at
- [IATF Announces new pay-per-month premium app. I have feelings.](https://theaxebadger.com/iatf-announces-new-pay-per-month-premium-app-i-have-feelings/): The IATF announced today the upcoming retirement of AxeScores (bye, bud. Thanks for my unhealthy obsession with ya), and the upcoming release of the IATF App:"The IATF is excited to introduce our new IATF App, set to replace the AxeScores App after March 7, 2025, at the end of the League Qualification Period. The new
- [Naming your axes: a guide.](https://theaxebadger.com/naming-your-axes-a-guide/): In the past, I've given ultra-helpful, totally serious guidance to folks who needed help with their axe-throwing nicknames. You're welcome. But it occurred to me that, out of the two, naming your axes is far more difficult, and I guess more rare? Ever the helper to the masses, I'm proud to share this handy guide
- [Great Axpectations: Set goals, but don't depend on 'em.](https://theaxebadger.com/great-axpectations-set-goals-but-dont-depend-on-em/): First, let me apologize for abandoning you last week. You see, I had the Norovirus, and I was only capable of sleeping and cosplaying as a gargoyle, so I didn't have much drive or desire to write pithy things about a tiny sport. No, no, I spent my time brushing my teeth and watching YouTube
- [Tips for carpooling to tourneys with axe throwers](https://theaxebadger.com/tips-for-carpooling-to-tourneys-with-axe-throwers/): Well, it was bound to happen. I've written about so many things on this blog that I'm left with the most loosely-associated topics to yap about. And with that glowing introduction, let's talk about a wildly under-discussed element of our sport: the adventure to a tourney. If you've taken this hobby/sport/lifestyle hook-line-sinker, you've surely travelled
- [Tiny axe thrower interview: Jenny Beams](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-jenny-beams/): During the New Year's Day marathon league at Urban Baltimore, I got the chance to hang out with Jenny Beams (a local Baltimore thrower) and re-record an interview I previously mucked up from months before. Truth be told: I thought I was recording the int erview before, but I was in fact recording nothing, and
- [Lane etiquette: are you polite, planning, or poopeh?](https://theaxebadger.com/lane-etiquette-are-you-polite-planning-or-poopeh/): I did a lot of unnecessary work to get three "P" words in a line there that made even a little bit of sense, so be patient with me as I try to make them work in the context of this post. Wait. Should I have gone with patient instead of planning? Maybe. Shoot. I'll
- [The newest product from Axe Badger, Inc.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-newest-product-from-axe-badger-inc/): After minutes of R&D, the product development team here at Axe Badger HQ have finally released their first new product of 2025. From the makers of "excuses why you didn't throw better that almost sound believable" and "Magnetic Clutches" comes the Decoyn! A carry anywhere, achieve-one-specific-thing product. Now, sharks, I know what you're thinking: "God,
- [NYD axe throwing marathon: What the eff happened to me?](https://theaxebadger.com/nyd-axe-throwing-marathon-what-the-eff-happened-to-me/): I've done the Urban Axes: Baltimore New Year's Day marathon twice, now. Yesterday (actually, today. I'm writing this after getting home), and a year and a day ago (again, a year ago. I want honesty in axe-throwing journalism). Now, I didn't do so well last year. I didn't win very much at all, I didn't
- [My last year in axe throwing](https://theaxebadger.com/my-last-year-in-axe-throwing/): All good things come to an end, and time continues its ever-shuffle toward eventual entropy, now is the time that we reflect on what we've accomplished, and what we're gonna change in the coming year. Wait...you thought I was gonna...gonna quit axe throwing? Oh no. No, no. That's just a weak attempt at a clickbait
- [Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: Axestrator](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-axestrator/): This tiny axe thrower interview came from the Harry Potter Marathon that Meduseld Meadery put on a month or two back. It was a blast of a time, made all the better by my chance in getting to know Axestrator a bit better. In this tiny axe thrower interview, we talked about how other sports
- [Six Clutchmiss activities for your axe league to enjoy](https://theaxebadger.com/six-clutchmiss-activities-for-your-axe-league-to-enjoy/): Yes, it's the sixth day of Clutchmiss, and that means only one thing: it's time to begin the traditional Clutchmiss games! The Clutchmiss games, as I'm sure you remember from your grandparents telling you over Clutchmisses past, are a time for lighthearted competition, frivolity, and merry-making. So why not dust off your favorite holiday kilt,
- [Don't wait: here are the REAL answers to Collins Rating questions](https://theaxebadger.com/dont-wait-here-are-the-real-answers-to-collins-rating-questions/): It's the...3rd(?) day of Clutchmiss, and I wanted to give a gift to all of you before the IATF fills your head with a bunch of malarky about the hows and whys of the AxeScores Collins Rating system. As you may have seen in a recent post, the IATF is gathering questions from throwers around
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Tristan Campbell (Part 2)](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-tristan-campbell-part-2/): Hello and welcome to part 2 of the definitely NOT a “tiny interview” ™ with Tristan Campbell. This piece is a little longer than the average Badger post, but Matt trusted me when I said I felt the material deserved the space, and I hope you do too. Most people in the Pacific Region become
- [It's here: welcome to the 12 days of Clutchmiss!](https://theaxebadger.com/its-here-welcome-to-the-12-days-of-clutchmiss/): All year long, little axe-kins have been watering boards without asking, offering up chalk to those in need and giving the benefit-of-the-doubt on questionable science calls all to make sure that ol' Saint Clutchy put them down on the "nice" side of the waiver form. And now, all that work can finally start paying off.
- [Axe Throwing Conspiracy Theories](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-throwing-conspiracy-theories/): Pebbles sent in another banger of a post, and I just couldn't find a reason to wait on publishing it. So put on your tin foil hat and get your red yarn ready - Axe Throwing Conspiracy Theories Imagine with me if you will, you’re in a lane, throwing at the target, but the axe
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Tristan Campbell, Part 1](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-tristan-campbell-part-1/): IS STAT ALL? (OR: I'D TAP THAT) Interview by RYODHAI I bumped into Tristan at APATC, after the briefest of chats he struck me as good people, but noticing me talking to him one of the top throwers in our Region – Matt Brown, knowing I’m writing pieces for The Axe Badger, taps me on
- [We have a pro in every axe tourney. Here's how I reset expectations.](https://theaxebadger.com/we-have-a-pro-in-every-axe-tourney-heres-how-i-reset-expectations/): I have a big love for Bob, our resident pro-thrower. He cares about the axe throwing community we have, is always willing to teach and talk, and is a fixture of Meduseld Meadery. The dude is also a phenom, and as such carries with him a ranking of (currently, as of yesterday evening) 29th. 29th
- [Gang, I was hella sick. Throwing sick is ruff.](https://theaxebadger.com/gang-i-was-hella-sick-throwing-sick-is-ruff/): Today is the very first day I felt anywhere close to my typical, gregarious self. For the past...hell...12 days (!) I've been very, very ill with some sort of para-influenza that did me dirty. But, fortunately, the illness hit me up during the holiday break, so I didn't miss much. And being hella sick presented
- [An Axe Thrower Interview: Noz and Snodders](https://theaxebadger.com/an-axe-thrower-interview-noz-and-snodders/): Choptober 24, for me, was a nearly 100% magical experience. I managed to avoid (most) of my social anxiety, I got to meet people from all over the world, and I had a great time (even if, you know, my throwing wasn't all that great. But when is it ever, right?). I write "nearly" because
- [An Exclusive Report: What axe throwing is missing.](https://theaxebadger.com/an-exclusive-report-what-axe-throwing-is-missing/): By guest writer, Amy "Pebbles" Hudson I’ve never been that into sports. As a ginger living in Australia, outside wasn’t a fun place for me. My father, desperate to get me to be interested in anything other than puppets, quickly realised the way to get me interested, mascots, and so my obsession with giant weirdos
- [Tiny Axemaker Interview: James Coverdale of Northern Axe Works](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axemaker-interview-james-coverdale-of-northern-axe-works/): Nice axes are nice. We all know that pull when coming across a truly beautiful axe and feeling our hands, unwittingly, reaching for our Venmo accounts. James Coverdale's work is exactly that: I almost immediately abandoned my "no new axes" rule to get one of his big axes because, and I'll put this as plainly
- [Fighting Against Stormtrooper Syndrome](https://theaxebadger.com/fighting-against-stormtrooper-syndrome/): A quick note: if you haven't already, check out the most recent episode of "Not Axe Murderers" where I'm the guest! You can watch/listen to it right here. Chances are high, if you throw axes that is, you've experienced a scourge of our sport: Stormtrooper Syndrome. Prevalent as it is, there are still a few
- [Spice up your boring ass league-night streams.](https://theaxebadger.com/spice-up-your-boring-ass-league-night-streams/): We live in a fascinating, modern time. We got hot pockets. We got tiny gramaphones in our pockets that play almost all the music ever made in the last 1,000 years. We got pet videos like, whenever we want. But, for whatever reason, our league-night streams are some of the most boring things to watch.
- [Profit vs purpose: Are axe venues a business, or a community hub?](https://theaxebadger.com/profit-vs-purpose-are-axe-venues-a-business-or-a-community-hub/): There is a perennial issue with axe throwing which, truthfully, we as a community really don’t have a handle on. Axe throwing is fun, sure, but turning fun into a self-sustaining sport is tricky. So tricky, in fact, we've seen multiple axe houses shut down after failing to find a profitable blend of public and
- [The Name Game: A few axe throwing nickname suggestions](https://theaxebadger.com/the-name-game-a-few-axe-throwing-nickname-suggestions/): Hello friends, your least favourite superhero, C-man here. On this cold winter night of November the spooky season is over but I'm here to bring the scream one more time. At least to your venue owners, today I'm pitching some axe names to spread fear and maybe some joy into those around you. Please note
- [The joy of being a mid-level boss fight in axe throwing.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-joy-of-being-a-mid-level-boss-fight-in-axe-throwing/): We all have roles in this little funtime sport of ours. Some of us are champions - collecting podium finishes, big checks, and plaques - like an overweight pigeon in a park near a retirement home. Others of us are newbs, who have hearts (if not throws) in the right place. But I've come to
- [Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: Stephen Haldis aka Heavin' Stephen](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-stephen-haldis-aka-heavin-stephen/): Stephen is a longtime friend of this blog. He sent me a few messages here and there when I first started the thing, and I had the good fortune of meeting him at IATC last year while I was freaked out of my gourd with all the people there. When I saw him again during
- [What to do when your axe venue is burning.](https://theaxebadger.com/what-to-do-when-your-axe-venue-is-burning/): At some point in your axe throwing life, it’ll happen. Probably multiple times, really: your axe venue will start burning down. And while it’s important to allow yourself the grief and frustration of having your axe venue ignite, especially after you specifically tried to stop that sort of thing happening. So, if you notice your
- [Axe Thrower (Slash Photographer) Interview: Matt Traino](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-slash-photographer-interview-matt-traino/): For this interview, I wanted to get a perspective I hadn't yet encountered: the photographer. Now, obviously chances are fairly high that any photographer hired for an axe throwing tourney (in this case, Choptober) would have some background in axe throwing - and Matt was no different. We discussed what it's like to shoot a
- [Getting Better at Axe Throwing Means Creating More Space Between Failure.](https://theaxebadger.com/getting-better-at-axe-throwing-means-creating-more-space-between-failure/): It's election day across the states, and while I have big thoughts and fee fees about that business, I ALSO really enjoy not thinking about any of it, and since I am the only person with login access to this blog (sorry to my international correspondents, or maybe not "sorry" as much as "you're welcome"),
- [Through Fire and Brimstone: An Axe Thrower Interview with Elvar](https://theaxebadger.com/through-fire-and-brimstone-an-axe-thrower-interview-with-elvar/): Hello dear reader, C-man here back again with a red-hot interview from the destructive but surprisingly green land of Iceland! Today we feature an axe thrower interview with Elvar Olafsson aka Éllo. TELL US A FUN FACT ABOUT YOURSELF! I’m a quick learner but a better coach/teacher. So usually when I start doing something new,
- [FOMO: A Guide For Getting To More Axe Throwing Tourneys](https://theaxebadger.com/fomo-a-guide-for-getting-to-more-axe-throwing-tourneys/): At the start of November my good friend, and all round great human being Matt Evison (aka Happy Axemore) is helping host the IATF major event the Norse Regionals at Valhalla Melbourne, and I will sadly be missing out. With the average distance for Australian interstate events being 700+ Km (435+ miles) and a weekend
- [Axe Venue Interview: Taps, Axes & Games!](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-venue-interview-taps-axes-games/): I've known Tim for a while. We'd see each other at tourneys and, much as I think is the case, he started treating me like a long-lost friend after maybe the second interaction. Hell, maybe after the first one. His pup was one of the first celebrities I knew about in the sport. I was
- [How you'll lose your next marathon axe league: A quiz.](https://theaxebadger.com/how-youll-lose-your-next-marathon-axe-league-a-quiz/): Plenty of quizzes can tell you how you'll succeed. The scientists at The Axe Badger dared to ask: can we create a quiz about failure. After years of patient research and exciting breakthroughs, our crack team of real, absolutely-do-exist Axe Badger R&D Department put together this 100% accurate quiz to help throwers peer into the
- [Choptober 2024 Pictures From An Early 2000's-style Camera](https://theaxebadger.com/choptober-2024-pictures-from-an-early-2000s-style-camera/): Yep, that's it. It's time for the Camp Snap version of Choptober 2024. 70-ish photos from a very short man trying his best.
- [A Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: Star Girl](https://theaxebadger.com/a-tiny-axe-thrower-interview-star-girl/): I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Star Girl just after they threw against Queen HBO (having just played a match about 5 seconds beforehand against Rander). I hadn't met Star Girl before, so the chance to talk to someone absolutely new to me was wonderful. Here's how this Tiny Axe Thrower Interview went: Actually,
- [I Think Choptober Changed My Brain Chemistry.](https://theaxebadger.com/i-think-choptober-changed-my-brain-chemistry/): I'm still digging out from Choptober (going through a bunch of early-2000's-esque pictures, putting my toothbrush back where it belongs. Staring at an axe that I should not have purchased but GAWD it's so pretty I couldn't let it go back to the UK), but I did want to scratch out a post sooner than
- [Choptober 2024 is Here. But I'm not there (yet).](https://theaxebadger.com/choptober-2024-is-here-but-im-not-there-yet/): For the first time since IATC, I'm taking off of work to fiddle-faddle my way to an axe throwing tourney. I can't really say I have any goals for Choptober - I'm just thrilled to finally be a part of the thing. Yes, dear reader, this will be my very first time going to Choptober,
- [Introducing A New Axe Throwing Society.](https://theaxebadger.com/introducing-a-new-axe-throwing-society/): Dear reader, we have options when it comes to what axe league to join. You've got WATL. You've got Major League Axe Throwing. You've got the IATF. But even with all these choices, I feel like there isn't one that really caters to a very specific, very important group of throwers who, up to this
- [5 Halloween Costume Suggestions for Axe Throwers](https://theaxebadger.com/5-halloween-costume-suggestions-for-axe-throwers/): You can only go as an axe murderer or lumberjane so many times before the gimmick gets old, so here are a few quick axe thrower costume suggestions for all you folkx who wanna integrate your passion into your upcoming halloween party: THE IATF RULESET Stylish? No. Sleek? No, again. But you'll get people arguing
- [The Voice of the North: An Axe Thrower Interview with Kooks](https://theaxebadger.com/the-voice-of-the-north-an-axe-thrower-interview-with-kooks/): Hello friends! C-man coming at you as we enter the changing of the seasons here in the UK with another thrower interview, from the frosty badlands of North East England. His voice might be recognised if you watch any Valhalla North live streams, it is none other than Ian Thomas aka Kooks! Let's start with
- [APATC Wrap Up #2 - Interview with a Valkyrie](https://theaxebadger.com/apatc-wrap-up-2-interview-with-a-valkyrie/): Howdy all, Aussie Badger back with an interview of a top Australian thrower - a valkyrie in fact. This is something of an interview in 2 parts, as we started this before APATC, but at the time Zoë was slammed with setting up and organizing the event, so we had to find time when we
- [Don't SCARE Away New Axe Throwers.](https://theaxebadger.com/dont-scare-away-new-axe-throwers/): IT'S HALLOWEEN MONTH AND I'LL USE AS MANY HORRIBLE PHRASES AS I CAN. DON'T LIKE IT? WELL BOO-HOO! ...pumpkins. Okay, anyway - I've been giving a lot of thought recently to how it's not too terribly difficult to get people in the door, as far as a first league goes. Most of the time, if
- [Zen and The Art of The Axe Tourney: Heckler's APATC.](https://theaxebadger.com/zen-and-the-art-of-the-axe-tourney-hecklers-apatc/): One of the great things about big events is they can bring out some big surprise performances. Watching the Open Tournament at APATC 24, I saw a lot (A LOT) of unexpected outcomes. Some of my favourite conversations on the sidelines this year were how common this phenomenon is, and what we all think is
- [LoT(c)R - Lord of the (Clutch) Ring: APATC Wrap Up #1.](https://theaxebadger.com/lotcr-lord-of-the-clutch-ring-apatc-wrap-up-1/): Calling all heroes – Tyler Seddon keeps winning everything, please send help! Australia; home to some of the world’s deadliest creatures has recently uncovered a new apex predator, quickly gaining a villainous reputation in the land down under. The Multi-bladed “Lemillion” aka Tyler Seddon, was seen wreaking havoc at this year’s Asia Pacific Axe Throwing
- [UK Axe Thrower Interview: Tora The Axeplora](https://theaxebadger.com/uk-axe-thrower-interview-tora-the-axeplora/): Hello friends! It's the Man with the most C’s coming at you live and direct with the first interview of my blogging career. We are tuning in with Amy aka ‘Tora’ hailing from the midlands. Let's not waste any time, straight into it! TELL US A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU Usually when people ask me
- [Axe League Tourney Night: My 3 Goals](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-league-tourney-night-my-3-goals/): It's here: the one night every ~2 months that feels like a high school dance. Where the performance of the past 7 weeks disappears and I get the chance to achieve greatness. Greatness that, if we're being honest, dries up about 2 weeks after once we start the whole cycle again. Yes, the humble axe
- [The Ultimate Guide for Ruining Axe Leagues In 4 Easy Steps](https://theaxebadger.com/the-ultimate-guide-for-ruining-axe-leagues-in-4-easy-steps/): You know what? I'm tired of pretending like I care about this sport. Giving helpful advice, meeting people - helping this community grow and celebrate itself - ugh! So it's time for the veneer to come off and for me to reveal my true nature. It's October, after all, the season of masks and spoopy-boops.
- [Introducing Our UK Correspondent: C-man. ](https://theaxebadger.com/introducing-our-uk-correspondent-c-man/): The Axe Badger continues its attempt to assemble an adventuring party in axe throwing - this time we made some connections to the throwers in the UK, and found yet another little cherub to help discuss what's happening far away from our headquarters (which is, in fact, a blanket fort somewhere in Lancaster, Pennsylvania).Andrew (our
- [Aussie Axe Thrower Interview: DOZER](https://theaxebadger.com/aussie-axe-thrower-interview-dozer/): Howdy, Aussie Badger back with the second interview in our series shining a light on the top throwers from the Pacific region. This time Dale DaCosta (DOZER), at the time of this interview, DOZER was number 3 in the region, and #8 in the world. Name Dale DaCosta Throwing name DOZER Story behind throwing name
- [What's Better: Flexibility or Consistency? Improvisation or Memorization?](https://theaxebadger.com/whats-better-flexibility-or-consistency-improvisation-or-memorization/): Dear reader, let me make some assumptions about what you understand in the world of axe throwing. Oh, sorry, I mean to say axesumptions. Axesumptions about what you axerstand in the world of axe throwing. It is LIKELY you understand the importance of consistency in your throw (hell, I've written a lot about it here,
- [Aussie Axe Thrower Interview: Tex](https://theaxebadger.com/aussie-axe-thrower-interview-tex/): Howdy, Aussie Badger again, I'm going be really quick with this intro bit and let the interview below do all the talking. Because we're so remote in the Pacific Region, our top throwers are largely unknown on the global scene. For that reason, despite The Axe Badger being about and for the common thrower, Matt
- [3 Axe Thrower Superstitions AND 3 PROVEN, ABSOLUTELY TRUE Solutions](https://theaxebadger.com/3-axe-thrower-superstitions-and-3-proven-absolutely-true-solutions/): Tomorrow is Friday the 13th, and I don't have a single ding dang thing to write about today, so I figured "well, my boy, why not try for a superstition post?" and here we are. Now, I don't think this is a far stretch - any sport/group/community has its own sort of superstitious streak, and
- [Don't think twice, it's alright: stop doubting your 5th throw decisions.](https://theaxebadger.com/dont-think-twice-its-alright-stop-doubting-your-5th-throw-decisions/): I've noticed something, dear reader. As I shuffle around on this mortal coil and begin to get familiar with axe throwing in particular, I have discovered I do, in fact, have a snap-judgement prejudice. And that prejudice happens when someone looks at me like they don't even know how an axe got in their hands,
- [Introducing: RYODHAI, a new Axe Badger correspondent from Australia](https://theaxebadger.com/introducing-ryodhai-a-new-axe-badger-correspondent-from-australia/): It was the beginning of September. Still very hot, still very much summer here in Lancaster, PA. I was dillying. Dallying. Then I got an email from Andrew in Australia, who asked the question any blog with a single writer longs to read: Can I write for you?After a few preliminary email exchanges, RYODHAI/Andrew/RIDE OR
- [Lost in Translation: Why Great Axe League Performance Doesn't Guarantee Tourney Success.](https://theaxebadger.com/lost-in-translation-why-great-axe-league-performance-doesnt-guarantee-tourney-success/): There are throwers out there in the axe-o-verse who are just exceptional at whatever nonsense you throw at 'em. You meet them during practice and they are nailing clutches and bulls as easily as you like. You meet them during leagues and they end up in the top 3 without even trying. You meet them
- [Don't @ Me: I think the IATF Bullseye should be smaller.](https://theaxebadger.com/dont-me-i-think-the-iatf-bullseye-should-be-smaller/): Something has been bubbling around inside the ol' braincase. Typically this is just a sign I'm about to make an animal noise, but this time, dear reader, it was something else. And don't get me wrong: I waited for this thought to pass like so many other repetitive thoughts: How is that one whale that
- [REJECTED Joey The Hat Axe Games](https://theaxebadger.com/rejected-joey-the-hat-axe-games/): One can not overstate the impact of Joey The Hat in both the expansion and enjoyment of axe throwing worldwide. Between his challenge coin introduction and community-focused mindset, the dude has made our hobby something truly special. But perhaps one of his biggest impacts in the sport comes in the form of his ever-growing list
- [The Absolute Freedom of a 100% Clutch Call League Run.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-absolute-freedom-of-a-100-clutch-call-league-run/): Dear reader, we all wanna win a bit. Maybe you haven't a single competitive bone in yer body, but there is at least a part of you - maybe a tendon of trying or something - that enjoys when you achieve sporting success. But wanting to win also comes with the inevitable pressure of wanting
- [Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: Flare Gun](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-flare-gun/): At least 3 people told me I had to interview Flare Gun. They are a very new thrower in the sport, and jumped in with both feet in a big way (we had this interview during the Urban Open, and to date they have just 4 leagues on their player's card). During this tiny axe
- [The Worst Types of Axe Throwers: An Unqualified List.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-worst-types-of-axe-throwers-an-unqualified-list/): I know we're pretty lovey-dovey, everything is fun and great and everyone is fun and great and whatEVER here at Axe Badger headquarters, but I need to get something off of my hirsute chest: There are some real jackhorses out there. Some reeeeaaaaaaalllll clown factory employees in the wings. And I'm not going to pretend
- [Hell On Feels: Controlling Emotion is More Than A Good Idea - It's Essential.](https://theaxebadger.com/hell-on-feels-controlling-emotion-is-more-than-a-good-idea-its-essential/): Dear reader, you may ask yourself: "self? Yes, hello. Quick question: did Badger wake up with the phrase 'Hell on Feels' in his brain and write an entire article around it?" And the answer to that question would be yes. Yes I did. But who knows why the subconscious mind plants these little things into
- [A Plea For The Standard Axe Throwing Uniform.](https://theaxebadger.com/a-plea-for-the-standard-axe-throwing-uniform/): Some of us have tee shirts. Others wear jerseys like we're part of a bowling alley league. Honestly, I think these are both fantastic options - and all options are, relatively speaking, fine. But I think we've reached a point where we really need to define what the standard axe throwing uniform will be. You
- [New IATF Regions: It's All Wrong.](https://theaxebadger.com/new-iatf-regions-its-all-wrong/): Now, I could start this post by going into a whole discussion about the concept of tribalism and how it is thought that humanity, due to our very nature, seeks out community identification. But this isn't a place for half-thought-out, socio-philosophic ranting. Well, at least not at the time of this writing (which is so
- [IATF Secrets: REVEALED VIA INSIDER INFORMANT](https://theaxebadger.com/iatf-secrets-revealed-via-insider-informant/): I don't talk about it much, but I have a pretty storied past as an investigative journalist. The McCarthy report? Who stole the Lindbergh baby? Yeah, I definitely had to look both of those up to come up with examples. But there are times in my...journalistic(?) career with The Axe Badger that I'm truly amazed
- [Axe Maker Interview: Woosiie](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-maker-interview-woosiie/): I had the opportunity to spend a little bit of time with Woosiie, the man behind some of the most creative, boldly-designed axe handles (and axe heads) available today. After he graciously offered to set me up with his own LAV mics, we talked about his process for making axes, his opinions on the sport
- [I Went to Urban Open 2024 and All I Got Was A Sense of Community and Value](https://theaxebadger.com/i-went-to-urban-open-2024-and-all-i-got-was-a-sense-of-community-and-value/): This was my first year competing in the Urban Open, having gone as a spectator last year to support fellow leaguers and to get sweet, sweet content for this verysame blog. And while attending without participating is fun (ask me about my middle school dance experiences!), attending and participating is the...more fun. I have never
- [A Tiny Axe(?) Thrower Interview: Darla The Dog](https://theaxebadger.com/a-tiny-axe-thrower-interview-darla-the-dog/): While the heat was oppressive, I found myself venturing out to the (sometimes) rainy, (always) too hot parking lot of Urban Axes Baltimore during the Urban Open. The reasons for this were plenty, but in this particular case I was waiting on a burger and fries. Through my own good fortune, I met a willing...albeit
- [The IATF Panel of Throwers: How, and Where, It's Going - with Christina DeGraft-Johnson](https://theaxebadger.com/the-iatf-panel-of-throwers-how-and-where-its-going-with-christina-degraft-johnson/): The IATF Panel of Throwers is approaching its one-year marker, and in that time it has had some growing pains in relation to how it interacts with the IATF and the community it serves. As I learned from Christina DeGraft-Johnson (an appointed representative on the panel), there's still a lot to figure out, but there's
- [Axe Thrower Interview: Myself.](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-thrower-interview-myself/): Dear reader, this is my 100th post. It's been an unexpected journey getting to this point, and frankly I'm still kind of amazed that people recognize me when I pop off to tournaments, tell me they read the ding-dang thing, or tell me how much they enjoy it. I was trying to figure out how
- [The Urban Open is This Weekend: Here Are My Goals.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-urban-open-is-this-weekend-here-are-my-goals/): The Urban Open was the very first bigtime tournament I went to. Granted, I didn't compete that first time (I didn't yet understand the importance of just competing in everything for the fun of it, rather than the winning of it (I mean, win if you can, but for most of us, getting a podium
- [Tiny IATC Axe Thrower Interview: Baby Deer Ankles (Katelyn Causey)](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-iatc-axe-thrower-interview-baby-deer-ankles-katelyn-causey/): I'd seen Katelyn around at Urban Baltimore a few times, but never got a chance to sit down (in this case, stand around) and interview her. I decided to pluck up the courage during IATC, thanks to a series of drinks and other successful interviews. Here's the tiny IATC interview: How long have you thrown?
- [Hey Gang, I Donked This Axe League Real Bad. That's Okay.](https://theaxebadger.com/hey-gang-i-donked-this-axe-league-real-bad-thats-okay/): PERCEPTION, REALITY, AND THE FRUSTRATION OF KNOWING JUST ENOUGH. Well, dear readers, I want to admit something to you all: I kinda failed myself during the Wednesday night league (we still have the 7th week and the tourney, but I know it. In my bones I know it). I started this league with high hopes.
- [Axe Throwing Tip: Don't Tip (Your Body)](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-throwing-tip-dont-tip-your-body/): In the spirit of sharing an axe throwing tip that I should have known long before now, I have another one for you, dear reader: This past Sunday was yet another lovely, 5-week marathon league at Meduseld Meadery. Unlike past marathon leagues, this one was brimming with throwers (15 in total, compared to our typical
- [Axe Throwing Tip I Learned Late: Have a "Lock Point"](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-throwing-tip-i-learned-late-have-a-lock-point/): Dear readers: I spend time thinking about axe throwing. A lot of this thought, outside of questions like "how much of a mole man do I look like to other throwers?" and "I wonder if eating a whole stromboli just before league night is a bad idea," is spent thinking about what makes throwers more
- [Tiny IATC Interview: Kevin Bradley](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-iatc-interview-kevin-bradley/): There are people in the axe throwing world that I kinda see as pillars in the sport. And it's rare that I build up enough gumption to talk to these people. But after a few very expensive beers and just the right amount of self confidence (read: I bought an axe off of him earlier
- [6-ish Things I Didn't Expect to Learn at IATC 2024](https://theaxebadger.com/6-ish-things-i-didnt-expect-to-learn-at-iatc-2024/): I guess it’s atypical to go to the biggest tourney of the land and expect to learn stuff. After all, the idea is that you’re already good enough to roll deep at Worlds. You really should know a bunch about how to throw/play/ect. But, my sweet baby child, I was experiencing IATC for the first
- [I Missed the 1-Year Anniversary of The Axe Badger, and a Request](https://theaxebadger.com/i-missed-the-1-year-anniversary-of-the-axe-badger-and-a-request/): GOO GOO GAH GAH THE AXE BADGER IS 1 YEAR OLD This blog turned 1 on June 12 of this year and, being the irresponsible parent that I am, I totes missed it. To be fair to myself, June 12th was a tricky time to remember anything given travel abroad/to IATC and all that, but
- [Tiny IATC Interview: John Pimentel](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-iatc-interview-john-pimentel/): John did a lot of shouting and dancing whilst at the Stockyards, and I thought that made him a good target for interviewing. He was kind enough to give me just a liiiiitle bit of time for this chitty-chitty-chat-chat. How long have you been throwing, and where do you typically throw? About two and a
- [JustAxeThoughts: Maybe I've Been Too Kind?](https://theaxebadger.com/justaxethoughts-maybe-ive-been-too-kind/): I try to live life by a few rules. One of those rules, just after "try to avoid staring into the void so long that you forget to breathe," is this: be more kind than you are. I try to extend, to everyone I interact with, a level of loving-kindness that they may or may
- [Tiny IATC Interview: Cal "Caliente" Chaput](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-iatc-interview-cal-caliente-chaput/): Cal was kind enough to take a bit of time with me after one of his father's IATC matches. This was my second interview of the day and I was starting to feel my groove a little bit (and by groove, I mean my ability to ignore how overwhelmed I was by all the peoples.
- [Forget the Line. Focus the Arc.](https://theaxebadger.com/forget-the-line-focus-the-arc/): I have a lot to say about IATC (well, at least one post that I’ll stretch out to three, because content is queen), but one of the most revelatory lessons I gained happened the day before I participated in Round 2. See, I’ve been away on vacation, dear reader. That’s why I haven’t written any
- [Heckling and Axe Throwing: A Guide](https://theaxebadger.com/heckling-and-axe-throwing-a-guide/): Axe throwing and heckling goes together like beer and olives (inasmuch that you don't think the two really need to go together, but have you had a beertini? delicious). But like all good things, there is a limit where fun happy times turns into not fun happy times. So how can a leaguer know when
- [Become an Axe Throwing Hero](https://theaxebadger.com/become-an-axe-throwing-hero/): Hero worship isn't something I particularly subscribe to. Truth is, a hero is just someone who was in the right place, at the right time, and did the "right" thing. But I'm not against people making themselves into a different sort of hero - a hero to a community. And, from what I've seen, there
- [Tiny IATC Interview: The Heckler](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-iatc-interview-the-heckler/): The very first person I built up enough courage to interview was The Heckler, who throws out of Merrickville, Sydney. Point in fact, Heckler was the first person I threw against during round 2 (they easily beat me), and also the first person who knew me from this blog. A little while after our match--and
- [What I Wish I Knew About Axe Throwing When I Started](https://theaxebadger.com/what-i-wish-i-knew-about-axe-throwing-when-i-started/): Axe throwing is an easy-to-pick-up thing for most people. I had/have a little bit of difficulty from my complications a la cerebral palsy, but even so: I make it work, and I have fun. But there are a number of things that, having thrown for a few years now, I wish I would have been
- [Marathon Axe Leagues & Experimentation: The Dream Combo](https://theaxebadger.com/marathon-axe-leagues-experimentation-the-dream-combo/): I've written A FEW TIMES about my feelings around the marathon axe league. The idea of cramming 5 or 7 weeks of throwing, plus a tourney, all in one day - I just. I mean. I really like pudding but I don't wanna slam down a five gallon tub of it a la Carl. You
- [Should there only be 1 option for hatchet/big axe in the sport?](https://theaxebadger.com/should-there-only-be-1-option-for-hatchet-big-axe-in-the-sport/): One of the hallmarks of axe throwing across organizational bodies is the chance to throw whatever axe fits your throw/style/aesthetic best. Sure, there are limitations, but generally speaking, a thrower isn't limited to just a single, standard model of axe. One can choose from a wide variety of makers, styles, handle lengths, bit sizes, etc.
- [The Worst Feeling(s) In Axe Throwing.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-worst-feelings-in-axe-throwing/): Emotions: the one thing all of us have, and none of us fully understand. Much like imagining a hippopotamus putting on a pair of pants, the more you think about it, the more questions you're left with. But if there's one thing this blog refuses to shy away from, it's the dopamine release of viewership.
- [The Next Big Controversy in Axe Throwing: 3 Predictions.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-next-big-controversy-in-axe-throwing-3-predictions/): We all remember the gnashing of teeth and rending of clothes stemming from the IATF making changes to axe requirements a while back. Likewise we remember, collectively, how the skies darkened with the sorrow of all throwers when WATL [[fill in something here. I know almost nothing about WATL. Something with targets? Where you stand?
- [The Siren Song of Axescores.com](https://theaxebadger.com/the-siren-song-of-axescores-com/): Hello. My name is Badger, and I've got an Axescores addiction. And I think you might, too. Axescores, that delightful website/app that is equal parts in-depth and wondrously confusing, is a HUGE part of throwing in the IATF. Nowhere else in my weird-sport history was there a way to categorically determine how I was competing
- [Axe throwing practice/game tip: modified 7s.](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-throwing-practice-game-tip-modified-7s/): This past Sunday, after a session of Old Gods of Appalachia with friends, Chapman and I trotted off to the Meadery for some axe throwing practice. It's a typical thing for us, both: Sunday practice. When they make a biopic about Chapman's rise as one of the defining artists of our time, they'll include these
- [Major League Axe Throwing: An Interview with Patrick Silverthorn](https://theaxebadger.com/major-league-axe-throwing-an-interview-with-patrick-silverthorn/): I am the kind of person who likes when something isn't quite nailed down. I enjoy the possibility of something. Our little sport has, admittedly, a lot of room to grow and change, and that's part of the reason I like it so much. There is just an oodle of possibility that the sport will
- [Make Axe League Night Mean More: 3 Ways to Add Variety and Camaraderie](https://theaxebadger.com/make-axe-league-night-mean-more-3-ways-to-add-variety-and-camaraderie/): League night is my favorite night. I love the chance to see friends, laugh, and disassociate from the garbage fire of the world via a goofy sport. But there are nights where, somehow, it feels like something to just get through. Not, like, in a horrible way...but more like it's procedural. 4 matches, win or
- [The DEFINITIVE List of Achievements for Everyone at IATC Who Isn't a Top 50 Thrower](https://theaxebadger.com/the-definitive-list-of-achievements-for-everyone-at-iatc-who-isnt-a-top-50-thrower/): IATC. The Wilson Cup. The big show. In just a few short months, The best of the very best will join together in Toronto to compete for the cash, the notoriety and yes--the right to say "this world may be a heaping pile of burning garbage, but for a brief, glimmering moment, I was the
- [Understanding by Explaining: Why I Help New Throwers Get Better](https://theaxebadger.com/understanding-by-explaining-why-i-help-new-throwers-get-better/): I think the axe throwing community, when at its best, is incredibly welcoming and supportive. It's one of the things that experienced throwers and newer throwers alike point to when asked what's great about the sport: people are welcoming, and everyone wants you to get as good at axe throwing as possible.note: I'm choosing my
- [Guest Writer Post: Don't Lose Sight of Fun at IATC.](https://theaxebadger.com/guest-writer-post-dont-lose-sight-of-fun-at-iatc/): This is our VERY FIRST guest writer post here at the Axe Badger. The writer wanted to remain anonymous, and that adds a lot of mystery which I think can only be good for viewership. Anyway, here's the post, discussing how IATC is more than competition: IATC TIP: GET YOUR MONEY'S WORTH WHEN IT COMES
- [Want to Write for The Axe Badger? Well, Friend-o, Why Don't You?](https://theaxebadger.com/want-to-write-for-the-axe-badger-well-friend-o-why-dont-you/): Hey gang. As I'm sure you've put together already, The Axe Badger is a multi-faceted organization consisting of me, Matt Chapman (who does any graphic that looks good), and...uh...well I think that's just about it. And while that has gotten me this far, I'd be fooling myself into thinking that one writer and one artistic
- [I Don't Understand IATC Qualification and I'm too Afraid to Ask.](https://theaxebadger.com/i-dont-understand-iatc-qualification-and-im-too-afraid-to-ask/): Okay, listen. I love this sport. I love how quirky a lot of it is, I like that it's not perfect, and I like that we still have lots of room to figure it out/change it/experiment. But as I nestle in to my understanding of leagues and championships, I am beginning to get a nagging
- [How to Prepare for IATC Round 1](https://theaxebadger.com/how-to-prepare-for-iatc-round-1/): The Wilson Cup, named after a character from Home Improvement, is the shining grail of our sport's penultimate tourney. And while precious few of us will ever get into the winner's circle of the IATC, we can certainly use the pomp and circumstance to hone our skills, make new friends, and stare at our axes
- [Creative Ways to Get Inside The Head of Your Opponent](https://theaxebadger.com/creative-ways-to-get-inside-the-head-of-your-opponent/): Much like the sister sport of axe throwing; chess, getting into the mind of your opponent while throwing is essential. There's plenty of talk about how we're all a community and there's so much love to be shared and had in the sport--but let's be honest: we're fighting a war against each other every single
- [The One, Under-discussed Skill Every Axe Thrower Eventually Needs to Learn](https://theaxebadger.com/the-one-under-discussed-skill-every-axe-thrower-eventually-needs-to-learn/): Gather 'round, dear readers, and let me tell you one of the great secrets of our sport (and, really I suppose, all sports). It took me a long time to learn this skill in general, but I figured it out long before I became an axe thrower, fortunately. You see, in every sport that pits
- [IATF Says: "Eff it, everything counts as points, now"](https://theaxebadger.com/iatf-says-eff-it-everything-counts-as-points-now/): In a startling about face, the IATF has recently announced the debate about Premier vs. Touch Clutch vs. Standard is over: every goddamn thing counts as points. Appearing on a front porch (not hers) and wearing a bath robe from whatever the Toronto version of Motel 6 is, the IATF commissioner announced the new ruling
- [What's Your Axe Throwing Nickname?](https://theaxebadger.com/whats-your-axe-throwing-nickname/): There is nothing more difficult, nothing more EMBARASSING than not having a nickname as an axe thrower. Pivotal, missed clutches. Accidentally throwing with your axe cover still on your axe. Messing up in Axescores. ALL OF THEM MOMENTARY, COMPARED TO THE DEEP, UNFORGIVABLE SIN OF NOT HAVING AN AXE-THROWER'S NICKNAME. But worry not. Your friends
- [New Throwing Axe Review: A Custom Flying Fox by Garrett Stidham](https://theaxebadger.com/new-throwing-axe-review-a-custom-flying-fox-by-garrett-stidham/): Friends, there comes a time in every young axe-throwers life when they find the purchase of off-the-shelf axes to be...unsatisfying. Sure, the type of axe you throw has some impact on your throwing, but really it's the skill, dedication, and technique that makes the thrower. Why spend more than retail for an axe when a
- [The Mental Game, Or: How I am learning to get out of my own way.](https://theaxebadger.com/the-mental-game-or-how-i-am-learning-to-get-out-of-my-own-way/): Axe throwing is a lot of things. It's finding the right axe for you, it's learning how to throw well (consistently). It's getting your first axe name and figuring out where your line happens to be between drinking and still throwing well enough not to embarrass yourself (or figuring out if you even care about
- [Did the IATF Even CONSIDER the Impact of their New Rules? Because I Have.](https://theaxebadger.com/did-the-iatf-even-consider-the-impact-of-their-new-rules-because-i-have/): The newest packet of rules updates may seem fairly straight forward on casual glance: a new touch clutch for Premier, clarifications on rules around big axe clutch attempts and how qualifying works. But on a deeper read, there is a malicious intent. There is a secret agenda that we (I) here at The Axe Badger
- [New IATF Rules, Who Dis?](https://theaxebadger.com/new-iatf-rules-who-dis/): That's right, dear reader - your friend Badger has all the hot takes on the newest rules the IATF presented to us yesterday here. Let's see what's on the menu, hmm? BIG AXE CLUTCH ATTEMPTS In the before times, looooong ago (Thursday), people in both Standard and Premier could go for the clutch in big
- [The Axe Venue is Dead. Long Live The Axe Venue!](https://theaxebadger.com/the-axe-venue-is-dead-long-live-the-axe-venue/): Phil isn't the only small, round and hairy prognosticator, it seems. On Tuesday, I wrote up a little blog post about growth and decline in the sport of axe throwing. Bring yourselves low and tremble, o mortals, for just the next day, BATL announced the unexpected (at least by what I can gather by a
- [Does The Growth of Axe Throwing Matter, and Should We Care?](https://theaxebadger.com/does-the-growth-of-axe-throwing-matter-and-should-we-care/): Axe throwing is, like any other non-traditional sport, one that struggles with an even spread of players who have participated for a very long time, and brand-new players (I mean throwers, of course, but I didn't want to mix up my terminology). I'VE SEEN THIS BEFORE I do have some experience with this: Hardcourt Bike
- [Tomorrow is my Axe Throwing League Tourney and I'm Preparing via the Transitive Property.](https://theaxebadger.com/tomorrow-is-my-axe-throwing-league-tourney-and-im-preparing-via-the-transitive-property/): An odd quirk of having Meduseld Meadery as one's axe house is how they aren't open Monday or Tuesday. That means one can't practice at said axe house until Wednesday (which is, you know, one of two league nights). So if one happens to be in Wednesday league, one can't really get a few throws
- [Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: Flick Flick Boom](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-flick-flick-boom/): Before I start this interview in earnest, I want to say that Flick made everyone a whole lotta breakfast meats before we even started practicing in earnest (for the NYD marathon in Baltimore). It was like I was in The Bear except Carmen was friendly and didn't lose his cool. I ate a sausage wrapped
- [Marathon Leagues: The Best Worst Thing in the Sport of Axe Throwing](https://theaxebadger.com/marathon-leagues-the-best-worst-thing-in-the-sport-of-axe-throwing/): Axe Throwing marathon leagues, in spirit, are something that everyone who loves the sport should be into. They overcome some of the most annoying elements of league - I'm referring to, of course: Only getting a handful of matches a week Dealing with absences (both yours and potential opponents) Having a set thing every week
- [Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: Furiosa](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-furiosa/): Furiousa was kind enough to stand near me at Urban Axes Baltimore and give me a quick, little interview as we were just starting to wake up for the day. NOTE: this was my very first interview, at like 9-something in the morning, and I'm not very cognizant of the world around me. I feel
- [Selected Notes From Urban Axes Baltimore NYD Over/Under Tourney](https://theaxebadger.com/selected-notes-from-urban-axes-baltimore-nyd-over-under-tourney/): While I've attempted to write a longform article about my experience at the Urban Axes Baltimore and their New Year's Day Over/Under tourney, I find that there's a lot to say and it might be a bit...I dunno...slow-paced for what you, dear reader, may like. While I still intend to write that post, I thought
- [Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: Ericka "Bows" Gannon.](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-ericka-bows-gannon/): I traveled with Otter Guy to my ancestral home of Baltimore for the New Year's Day Marathon Tourney (more on that in a much longer, much weirder post soon to come), and as such had yet another opportunity to interview the wonderful people of our sport. Bows was recommended to me for a tiny axe
- [Axe-olutions 2024](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-olutions-2024/): Topical! I do a lot of thinking about axe throwing in general, it being a way for me to turn off my brain from that icky thinking that comes with existing in this dumpster-fire world. But I honestly don't do all that much thinking about my particular goals in axe throwing. Sure, I want to
- [Axe Review: Infinity Axes Pluot](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-review-infinity-axes-pluot/): Since I learned of them during my second axe throwing league, I've been deeply interested by Infinity Axes. I had yet to realize that there were many people making axe-throwing specific axes, mind you, but the idea that some dude out in middle America (I honestly don't know why I think that, or if it's
- [Get A Grip: The Importance of a Great Axe Handle.](https://theaxebadger.com/get-a-grip-the-importance-of-a-great-axe-handle/): We (not the editorial we, the axe community we) spend a hell of a lot of time trying to choose the axe that makes us feel and look as cool as that one dude from Merlin: And I think it's great that we're chasing that high, I really do. But over time, my opinions about
- [Stop Stopping Yourself From Learning](https://theaxebadger.com/stop-stopping-yourself-from-learning/): The impulse to maintain consistency is a very human trait. It's an ancient, lizard-brain survival tactic that typically doesn't let us down, as a species. And that's good. Because I like existing and appreciate all of the little, hairy people who made it far enough to procreate in my family line. But there is also
- [6-ish Month Review: IATF Premier Throwing Axe](https://theaxebadger.com/6-ish-month-review-iatf-premier-throwing-axe/): When the IATF came out with their series of Premier-centric axes, I lept at the opportunity to get one (read: Chapman said the IATF Premier throwing axe was at worlds and asked if I wanted one, and I said yes). For a bit of truth in advertising: I messed up the first one I bought
- [Beat The IATF At Their Own Game](https://theaxebadger.com/beat-the-iatf-at-their-own-game/): he IATF has worked dilligently to create a sport that is fair, balanced, and fun for everyone who hucks an axe. But you're not here to have fair, balanced fun. You're here to WIN and to WIN you need to FIGURE OUT HOW TO OUT SMART THE IATF. The capped italics let you know I'm
- [Is The IATF Code of Conduct Enough?](https://theaxebadger.com/is-the-iatf-code-of-conduct-enough/): When you really like something, you become more and more willing to ignore when things about it aren't quite right. Axe throwing is, for me at least, a way of stepping out of my day-to-day and do something that is completely separate from all the nonsense and bleakness of the world. But if I take
- [Let's Talk Budget: Axe Throwing Gets Pricey, And Will Get Pricier.](https://theaxebadger.com/lets-talk-budget-axe-throwing-gets-pricey-and-will-get-pricier/): Axe throwing started out like so many fringe sports: low point of entry on cost, "whatever works" mentality and, of course, drinking. But it's graduated from those waddling baby steps into an activity that can cost a-plenty of hard earned money. And while it's still absolutely possible to still throw on a relatively low budget
- [3 Ways to Throw Axes Real Good Like.](https://theaxebadger.com/3-ways-to-throw-axes-real-good-like/): Hitting a plateu or hoping to level up your axe throwing? Well hell, friend, who isn't? Here are a few ways I've helped boost my axe throwing accuracy and consistency. Yes, I have three ways to throw axes real good like. I don't know if it's just my axe house or if it's something that's
- [Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: The Russian Viking](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-the-russian-viking/): During the Harry Potter Marathon, I got the chance to sit down (we were both standing, actually, at the bar in the Meadery) with The Russian Viking to chit chat. TRV has actually visited the meadery pretty often as of late, and he always brings with him a lot of kindness and good-natured frivolity, so
- [The Most Important Stat in Axe Throwing](https://theaxebadger.com/the-most-important-stat-in-axe-throwing/): The most important stat in axe throwing? How many axes you own, amirite? I will tell you something that I suspect many of you have already surmised about your humble narrator - I am not really all that great at the sport. I do well enough, certainly, but I sit comfortably at the upper middle
- [Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: Christina, AKA Big Axe Energy](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-christina-aka-big-axe-energy/): I had the chance to interview IATF Panel of Throwers member, friendly-as-hell, throwing phenom Christina at the Harry Potter Marathon League put on by Meduseld Meadery here in Lancaster, PA. Not only did I have the great pleasure of getting knocked out of the tourney by Christina, but I then had a front row seat
- [The Nightmare After Choptober](https://theaxebadger.com/the-nightmare-after-choptober/): It started like any other Halloween night. Trick-or-treaters guilting adults into giving them bigger handfuls of candy, adults without kids trying desperately to figure out how to construct a costume using a single pillow case and...what is that...a bowtie from Men's Warehouse they didn't return after the wedding?Dapper half-ghost it is. But you...you have other
- [Things I want: Axe Throwing Camp](https://theaxebadger.com/things-i-want-axe-throwing-camp/): Our sport is a paradox. It's HUUUUGE in community building and friendship/camaraderie, but it's a very isolated experience - you're throwing against yourself, if in most cases, and you kinda work out your best axe/technique on your own (or with a few other people who take the time to teach you). And while that's worked
- [Do we need more milestones?](https://theaxebadger.com/do-we-need-more-milestones/): I remember when I earned my 81 coin. It was during the Fall 2022 league, and I was throwing against Bill. I nailed the first round and thought nothing of it. Then I got the second round. And then the meadery went realllllllyyy quiet as I managed to land my final clutch and earn the
- [An Axe Throwing Interview: An Axe League of Their Own](https://theaxebadger.com/an-axe-throwing-interview-an-axe-league-of-their-own/): Folks, sometimes people get together and do something that just makes the world a better, more entertaining, and more exciting place. I will tell you true: when I saw that 3 axe throwers were getting together to make the world's first women's axe throwing podcast, did one of those big claps that Charles S. Dutton
- [A reflection after losing almost every match](https://theaxebadger.com/a-reflection-after-losing-almost-every-match/): I am not a naturally competitive person. I enjoy being good at something, but not because it makes me better at "it" more than anyone else. This was, in my experience, one of the reasons I didn't do terribly well in team sports whilst in high school: I just wanted everyone to have fun. It
- [Axe League Bingo!](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-league-bingo/): Need something to keep yourself entertained while waiting for your match? Well, dear reader, I spent an entire 3 minutes making you this very challenging bingo card. Yer welcome!
- [Axe League Tip: Be a mentor.](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-league-tip-be-a-mentor/): Axe throwing is a welcoming sport. We are excited when someone new joins in, are excited when they come back for another league, and are all-around pretty excited about anything. We're like Labrador puppies, really. Just in the world, excited about every damn thing. But there's a big difference between smiling real big like at
- [New Rule: Don't ask about the 5th throw.](https://theaxebadger.com/new-rule-dont-ask-about-the-5th-throw/): There is little that gets in my craw when it comes to an axe throwing match. You wanna celebrate a perfect throw? Do it. You wanna talk some trash? I'm excited, you sanitary specialist. But there's one thing, JUST. ONE. That gets my goat better than a T-Rex as a poorly constructed petting zoo. It's
- [3 tips for brand new throwers](https://theaxebadger.com/3-tips-for-brand-new-throwers/): Starting out in axe throwing, specifically as a member of a league, can result in a bunch of advice and guidelines from more experienced throwers. And that's great, honestly, as a way of diving deep in something new. But the problem is this: not everyone has supergreat advice, and not everyone throws the way you
- [IATF News: What is the Panel of Throwers?](https://theaxebadger.com/iatf-news-what-is-the-panel-of-throwers/): The IATF announced this week that they have closed nominations and are seeking votes and discussion around the "Panel of Throwers" - a select number of representatives charged with increasing transparency and boosting the dissemination (tee hee) of information more accurately and efficiently. But how? And also: what? WHAT THE PANEL OF THROWERS IS According
- [What to do with your pre-throw nerves](https://theaxebadger.com/what-to-do-with-your-pre-throw-nerves/): Axe throwing is by all accounts a low-pressure thing. Compared to, say, flying a B-17 over Nazi-occupied Europe, axe throwing is small potatoes. But it is a potato, and that's worth thinking about. Because potatoes are real good. Despite the low-universal-importance of axe throwing, it'd be a straight up lie to say that the pre-throw
- [Axe Throwing Tip: Everything is Practice](https://theaxebadger.com/axe-throwing-tip-everything-is-practice/): I'm a thinker. I'm paid to think, I think in my free time. To the credit of the Pizza Hut BOOK IT! program I read a lot -- and all of that is great. I enjoy treating my body as only a device to move my brain around to new things I can learn and
- [Throwing Axes with Cerebral Palsy](https://theaxebadger.com/throwing-axes-with-cerebral-palsy/): When I was born, I was born all sorts of bad. Several genetic issues, heart beating backwards, not breathing--plus a ton of other fun stuff. And while some of the things I was born with were resolved with learned workarounds or a lot of effort and drugs (I wore leg braces for a long time
- [Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: Otter Guy](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-otter-guy/): During our last Thursday league night, I cornered Otter Guy as he kept score. Two wonderful things happened during this tiny axe thrower interview: The interview started, no lie, with the sound of two axes tapping He was wearing a beaver onesie. I don't know why - I didn't ask - but it felt right?
- [Spice up Axe Throwing League Night](https://theaxebadger.com/spice-up-axe-throwing-league-night/): League night is a cornerstone of axe throwing. It's where you develop as a thrower, where you meet new friends, and where you find your excuse for drinking. But it can get repetitive. The same throwers, the same matches. The same worn out joke that Billy tries to use over and over even though it
- [When to make your axe an ex](https://theaxebadger.com/when-to-make-your-axe-an-ex/): I'm literally writing this post just to use that title. Call me Carrie because this article is entirely hinging on that wordplay. Anyway, I think you've known me long enough now, dear reader, that I may safely admit to you that I have a problem. I think it'll be a familiar one to you, so--in
- [New Challenge Coin Suggestions](https://theaxebadger.com/new-challenge-coin-suggestions/): The challenge coin is one of the most sought after physical items in axe throwing. Mostly because it's one of the few physical rewards axe throwers get in the sport, but still - there is a deep-down satisfaction in getting one, and anyone who is chasing that dream of a perfect match can attest at
- [Games to Improve Your Axe Throwing](https://theaxebadger.com/games-to-improve-your-axe-throwing/): Listen, I love throwing a hunk of metal into a hunk of wood as much as the next person, but the truth is this: practicing this sport can get reaaaaaaaaaaaaaal repetitive. Throw, retrieve, throw, retrieve. What am I, an adorable Labrador Retriever?! No, I'm not. Life would be a lot easier. But fear not! There
- [How to haul your axes: a primer](https://theaxebadger.com/how-to-haul-your-axes-a-primer/): Walking around town with an axe in your hands is, typically, not a very convenient move for most throwers. Unless you live in some sort of hard working, everyone-is-a-lumberjane scenario, you'll need a way to carry your axes about in a functional (and hopefully fashionable?) manner. When I first started, the opportunities for transport were
- [Want a Better Throw? Limit Yer Movement](https://theaxebadger.com/want-a-better-throw-limit-yer-movement/): Before some throwers blast their way into the comments section and let me know how wrong I am, let me start with a statement: If you've got a throw that's already working for you, and you look like you're performing modern interpretive dance whilst doing it, I'm not suggesting you change a thing. No, my
- [Lo-Fi Axe Tourney Vibes for Axe Throwers](https://theaxebadger.com/lo-fi-axe-tourney-vibes-for-axe-throwers/): Want those axe tourney sounds without all the body odor and guilt? Here's a little lo-fi recording to help you through the work day. So kick back, tune out, and get all those tourney feels without the indigestion of bar food. https://soundcloud.com/matthew-kabik/lofi-axe-tourneys-for-distracted-throwers?si=0fad627d009b4160806bfc2d8319e132&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharingYou're welcome!
- [Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: Big Vic Energy](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-big-vic-energy/): Big Vic Energy, despite being incredibly busy at the Urban Open, took a minute to talk to me about axe throwing and where the sport is going. Here is an abridged transcription of our tiny axe throwing interview! What have you noticed about the composition of axe throwers - has it been changing recently or
- [Urban Rules: A path forward, or a bumbling step sideways?](https://theaxebadger.com/urban-rules-a-path-forward-or-a-bumbling-step-sideways/): For a moment, let's suspend the first rule of axe throwing (throw better) and instead imagine, if we can, that the sport has room to grow. More specifically, that the IATF has room to make the game more compelling, more varied, and more exciting for new and veteran players. Something I'm drawn to with IATF
- [Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: Sex Metal Barbie](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-sex-metal-barbie/): I had the great fortune of bumping into my very best friend in the world Melissa Crist, aka Sex Metal Barbie, at the 2023 Urban Open. She was kind enough to take a minute to answer my very abbreviated interview questions: Where do you throw out of?Baltimore, Maryland. What is one piece of advice you'd
- [Tiny Axe Thrower Interview: Jean Claude Vin Damme](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-jean-claude-vin-damme/): Vin is kind of a...well I don't wanna say legend, really...but he's formative in my understanding of the sport and its direction. I first met him at a fundraising tourney thrown at Meduseld Meadery (my home axe house) and he was indomitable as a competitor -- and just as approachable. Vin, if you don't know,
- [2 kinda woo woo ways to improve your axe throw without throwing](https://theaxebadger.com/2-kinda-woo-woo-ways-to-improve-your-axe-throw-without-throwing/): Having time to practice axe throwing can be difficult. Some of us (I reckon most of us) don't have access to a 24/7 target to throw at. And even so, jobs and family and a nagging sense that all of this is nonsense still persist, and finding the time to hone (or even just maintain)
- [Tiny axe thrower interview: Lightning McQueen](https://theaxebadger.com/tiny-axe-thrower-interview-lightning-mcqueen/): Lightning McQueen was kind enough to...well I guess stand up and not sit down, for a quick, tiny axe throwing interview after she absolutely crushed a match. I had never met Lightning before the interview, and have absolutely no idea about them outside of these questions, and the fact that they destroyed it with a
- [Urban Open 2023: Thoughts and Feelings](https://theaxebadger.com/urban-open-2023-thoughts-and-feelings/): This past Sunday I travelled with Chapman to our ancestral home state's capital for the Urban Open 2023. Now, I wasn't going to compete at all, but Chapman was, having lucked into a waitlist opportunity. For my part, I was coming along to keep him company, see what the Urban Open was all about, and
- [IATF to announce new rules for 2024](https://theaxebadger.com/iatf-to-announce-new-rules-for-2024/): As expected, the performance of the top 32 throwers in this year's IATF world championship has left the organization's leadership with a typical quandary: how do we, as an organization, make sure only the very best in the sport are able to make it to the penultimate tournament? In the past the IATF has adjusted
- [Rulesets: How much is too much?](https://theaxebadger.com/rulesets-how-much-is-too-much/): The recent proposed WATL ruleset change has got a'plenty of feathers ruffled and jimmies rustled, and plenty of the uproar looks pretty justified. Whether it's current throwers who are frustrated by the different rulesets for pro/amateur or the addition of new killshots, throwers are crying foul. But all sports, until they are a hundred years
- [Throw Better: What to do when you're in a slump.](https://theaxebadger.com/throw-better-what-to-do-when-youre-in-a-slump/): It happens to all of us: You're starting to get good at the sport. You don't outright drop every axe you throw, and can actually appear, at first blush, like you know what you're doing. Hell, the axe house you throw at even wants to use your likeness in their advertising!
- [Sportsmanship and the double clutch call: maybe stop that?](https://theaxebadger.com/sportsmanship-and-the-double-clutch-call-maybe-stop-that/): Going for clutch when your opponent suggests it may be a big part of the "sportsmanship" element to axe throwing--but it can also force the hand of players. Is it time we adjust how fifth throws are discussed? It was a key moment in my first year of throwing at Meduseld Meadery.: Bob, who is
- [Choosing your first throwing hatchet: a primer](https://theaxebadger.com/choosing-your-first-throwing-hatchet-a-primer/): One of the first things that you're likely to do when you get into axe throwing is buy your own axe. You probably want something that fits the requirement of your particular fearless leaders (for me, IATF (ALL HAIL!)), but something that also is...I guess forgiving (?) for new throwers. Naturally, your more experienced fellow-throwers
- [Looking for an axe throwing tip? Try the flying V](https://theaxebadger.com/looking-for-an-axe-throwing-tip-try-the-flying-v/): Way back when I started throwing (two years ago), I believed whole-heartedly that a big part of getting a more consistent throw was to do the same thing over and over until my muscle memory kicked in and I didn't have to even think about hitting the target where I wanted to. So I tried
- [IATF Premier Hatchet (a first throw review)](https://theaxebadger.com/iatf-premier-hatchet-a-first-throw-review/): WEEEEELLLLL, dear reader, I have to first admit something before I start: I throw axes that are, typically, cut down to about 15-16 inches on the handle. I've become used to it, and don't wanna explore a different length of handle because change scares me.But I went ahead and donked cutting this Premier hatchet down.As
- [The IATF Premier Throwing Hatchet (A first-touch review)](https://theaxebadger.com/the-iatf-premier-throwing-hatchet-a-first-touch-review/): In an effort to reduce the number of times throwers attempt to claim a bunch of nails glued to a rod is an axe, IATF released two brand new axes to the market: the Premier (hatchet) and Federal (Big axe). And while I did not get the opportunity to buy one at the 2023 World

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- [About](https://theaxebadger.com/about-theme/): I started throwing axes at Meduseld Meadery in August of 2021. Just coming out of lockdown, I jumped at the opportunity to do something weird with kind people. In that time, I've become a pretty alright thrower. I still have so much more room to grow, and that's what I'm doing. A decade ago, I

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- [Knives](https://theaxebadger.com/category/knives/)
- [IATC,Interview](https://theaxebadger.com/category/iatcinterview/)

## Tags

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- [Tourney](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/tourney/)
- [Interview](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/interview/)
- [Tips and Advice](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/tips-and-advice/)
- [Urban rules](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/urban-rules/)
- [Vibes](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/vibes/)
- [Ephemera](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/ephemera/)
- [Challenge Coins](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/challenge-coins/)
- [Axes](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/axes/)
- [Cerebral Palsy](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/cerebral-palsy/)
- [Axe Taps](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/axe-taps/)
- [Panel of Throwers](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/panel-of-throwers/)
- [AALOTO](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/aaloto/)
- [Resolutions](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/resolutions/)
- [Goals](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/goals/)
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- [Tourney Report](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/tourney-report/)
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- [Axe Throwing League](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/axe-throwing-league/)
- [IATC](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/iatc/)
- [Guest Writer](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/guest-writer/)
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- [Heckling](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/heckling/)
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- [Urban Baltimore](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/urban-baltimore/)
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- [Dog](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/dog/)
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- [quiz](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/quiz/)
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- [Clutchmiss](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/clutchmiss/)
- [Valentine's day](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/valentines-day/)
- [Tournament](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/tournament/)
- [Axe Bags](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/axe-bags/)
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- [Meditation](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/meditation/)
- [Chopper's](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/choppers/)
- [knives](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/knives/)
- [Choppers](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/choppers-2/)
- [Throwingtimes](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/throwingtimes/)
- [Valentines](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/valentines/)
- [Premier](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/premier/)
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- [Axe throwing stickers](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/axe-throwing-stickers/)
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- [Countess Cup](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/countess-cup/)
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- [Drunken Smithy](https://theaxebadger.com/tag/drunken-smithy/)