Axe throwing has exploded in popularity as an exciting recreational activity and competitive sport. The World Axe Throwing League (WATL) was founded in 2017 by representatives from Canada, the United States, Brazil, and Ireland, establishing standardized rules that have shaped how axe throwing is scored worldwide. Whether you’re a beginner stepping up to the throwing line for the first time or an experienced competitor looking to refine your strategy, understanding how to score axe throwing is essential for maximizing your performance and enjoyment of this thrilling sport.
Understanding Basic Axe Throwing Scoring Systems
The Foundation of Axe Throwing Scoring
Scoring is determined by where the axe strikes into the target. The WATL targets have a red bullseye ring, followed by five empty rings, and then a blue ring. The scoring is 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1 point respectively. The basic principle is straightforward: the closer your axe lands to the center of the target, the more points you earn.
The key to understanding how to score axe throwing lies in recognizing that different venues and organizations may use varying scoring systems. However, most follow either the WATL (World Axe Throwing League) or IATF (International Axe Throwing Federation) standards, which have become the most widely adopted formats globally.
WATL Scoring System
WATL Target: Going from the outer ring to the inner ring, you are awarded 1 point, 2 points, 3 points, 4 points, and 6 points for sticking your axe in the target. The WATL system also includes special “Killshot” areas that add strategic depth to competitive play.
IATF Scoring System
IATF Target: Going from the outer ring to the inner ring, you are awarded 1 point, 3 points, and 5 points for sticking your axe in the target. The green dots, or “clutch”, are worth 7 points when applicable. This system emphasizes accuracy with fewer scoring zones but higher point differentials.
Target Zones and Point Values
Standard Target Layout
Modern axe throwing targets consist of concentric circles with specific point values assigned to each zone. The bullseye, which is the center ring, typically has a diameter of 7 inches, while the surrounding rings are spaced evenly, creating zones with varying point values. Understanding these dimensions is crucial for developing accurate throwing techniques.
Scoring Zone Breakdown
| Target Zone | WATL Points | IATF Points | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outer Ring (Blue) | 1 | 1 | Largest scoring area, easiest to hit |
| Second Ring | 2 | – | WATL-specific zone |
| Third Ring | 3 | 3 | Middle scoring area |
| Fourth Ring | 4 | – | WATL-specific zone |
| Inner Ring/Bullseye | 6 | 5 | Center circle, highest regular points |
| Killshot/Clutch | 7-8 | 7 | Special high-value targets |
Special Scoring Areas
Killshot: the blue circles in the upper and lower corners of the target inside the 1 ring, worth 7 or 8 points when called and successfully hit. These special scoring areas require strategy and precision, as they can only be attempted under specific conditions and must be “called” before throwing.
Rules for Determining Scores
The Stick and Stay Rule
The axe must remain in the target for the throw to count. No Delays in Throws: Players may not ‘delay’ in throwing the axe in hopes that opponent’s axe may fall out of the target or use delays for strategic advantage. This fundamental rule ensures fair play and prevents manipulation of scoring outcomes.
Boundary Line Scoring
Touching the Line: If the axe is in two rings simultaneously, then the player is awarded the points for the higher valued ring. This rule eliminates ambiguity when an axe lands between scoring zones, always favoring the thrower with the higher point value.
Scoring Determination Process
When it comes to scoring, the golden rule of axe throwing is simple: where the blade first makes contact with the target determines the points, not where it eventually sticks. This prevents disputes and ensures consistent scoring across all venues.
Match Formats and Scoring Methods
Standard Match Structure
1 game consists of 3 matches. Each match consists of 5 throws per participant. So each participant will get 15 throws per game. Whoever gets the best 2/3 matches wins the game. This format provides multiple opportunities to demonstrate skill while maintaining competitive balance.
Tournament Scoring
Scoring is a match system where ten axes are thrown per match. The player with the highest points of their ten thrown axes wins the match. In case of a tie, a “sudden death” throw is made for the highest score. Tournament formats typically emphasize consistency and precision over extended play periods.
League Play Scoring
The first 7 weeks are gameplay where players contribute towards their seasonal score. Week 8 is reserved for the league playoffs to determine the local champion. League scoring systems focus on long-term performance and improvement over multiple weeks of competition.
Advanced Scoring Strategies
Killshot Strategy
Scoring points on a Killshot attempt closes both Killshots at that height. Killshots do not reset at the half. Hitting a second Killshot at the same height will count as a miss. Understanding when to attempt Killshots versus playing for consistent points is crucial for competitive success.
Closed Scoring Systems
Hitting any scoring zone within a 5 ring closes all scoring zones within that ring for the remainder of the half. Hitting inside the same 5 ring a second time in a half will result in a score of 0. This advanced rule adds strategic depth to professional competition, requiring players to vary their target selection throughout a match.
Risk-Reward Calculations
Successful axe throwers must balance the potential for high scores against the risk of missing entirely. If you go for the clutch and miss, you’ll most likely score just 1 point, or maybe even 0. But if you manage to stick the clutch, it’s worth 10 points! This decision-making process becomes critical in close matches where every point matters.
Common Scoring Variations and Game Formats
Recreational Venue Scoring
Many recreational axe throwing venues use simplified scoring systems to accommodate casual players. 7 points for the green circles. 5 points for the bullseye. 3 points for the black inner circle. 1 point for the outer blue circle. These variations maintain the core scoring principles while simplifying the experience for newcomers.
Alternative Game Formats
Countdown Games
Countdown: This involves two teams starting at a high score of 100. Each point scored will knock off some points with the ultimate goal of getting to zero first. The tricky part? You have to hit zero bang on, meaning if your score is at 2 and you hit a bulls-eye, which is 6 points your score is now -4 and you need 4 points to get back to zero to win.
Elimination Formats
The goal of the game is to be the last player standing. Players line up on one target and take turns throwing one at a time. If you score higher than the person in front of you, that player has been “knocked-out” and is out of the game.
Scoring Equipment and Technology
Manual Scoring Systems
Traditional axe throwing scoring relies on human judges and manual scorekeeping. Your axe coach will score your game on a score sheet and keep you posted on where your scores stand as you go. This personal approach ensures accuracy while providing immediate feedback to players.
Digital Scoring Applications
All scores must be uploaded into the WATL App in real time and uploaded to the leaderboard. If connectivity issues occur, all scores must be uploaded to the WATL® App within 48 hours. Modern competitive axe throwing increasingly relies on digital systems for accurate record-keeping and tournament management.
Safety Considerations in Scoring
Judge and Scorekeeper Safety
Judges will not be, or become, under the influence of any alcohol or substance during any time they may reasonably be expected to judge sanctioned events. Safety protocols extend beyond just throwers to include all personnel involved in scoring and officiating.
Scoring Area Safety
No food or drink in lanes. They are allowed in the seating area behind the red line. Only ONE person per lane in front of the red line – unless you’re fighting over a score…we know that might need a group consensus at the board! Maintaining clear scoring areas prevents accidents and ensures accurate measurement of throws.
Improving Your Scoring Performance
Target Practice Strategies
Purposeful drills help beginners improve their axe-throwing accuracy and consistency. Throwers can practice hitting specific target zones, starting with larger areas and gradually focusing on smaller ones. Systematic practice targeting different scoring zones builds muscle memory and improves overall performance.
Distance and Rotation Adjustments
Adjusting for distance and rotation is essential for accurate axe throwing. Beginners should experiment with their throws to find the optimal number of rotations for different distances. Most throwers aim for one full rotation for standard targets set 12 to 15 feet away.
Mental Game and Scoring
Managing nerves and maintaining focus under pressure are essential skills for success in axe-throwing contests. Players can benefit from techniques like visualization, where they imagine making successful throws before stepping up to the line. Mental preparation directly impacts scoring consistency and performance under pressure.
Professional Competition Scoring
Tournament Structure
Each division and discipline hosted in any tier level must have at least 8 competitors or teams to be considered for Circuit Points in that division/discipline. Professional tournaments maintain strict standards for legitimate competition and point allocation.
Qualification Systems
Circuit points are awarded to the top 40% of finishers in each division as well as those above a certain league threshold average. Understanding how tournament points accumulate helps competitive players plan their competitive schedules effectively.
World Championship Qualification
Automatic bids will be awarded to anyone who earns Pro League status in at least 2 league seasons within the qualifying year. The highest level of axe throwing competition requires consistent high-level performance across multiple seasons.
Common Scoring Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Measurement Errors
When measuring an axe blade that has landed across two point areas, always use the outer edge of the paint line (the one farther from the center of the target) to determine if the axe blade is in the higher or lower point area. Precise measurement techniques prevent disputes and ensure fair scoring.
Challenge Procedures
A competitor may challenge any score called by the Lane Judge if they believe it to be inaccurate. If a challenge is called, both competitors must return behind their designated fault lines until the final call is made. Understanding proper challenge procedures helps maintain fair play and scoring accuracy.
Premature Axe Removal
If the thrower being measured removes their axe from the board before the measurement is complete, they receive the lower point value of the values in debate. Patience in scoring situations prevents automatic penalties and ensures accurate point allocation.
Technology and Future of Axe Throwing Scoring
Rating Systems
WATL is introducing a new 2025 Rating System designed to enhance competition by dynamically tracking performance and ranking competitors beyond just total points. Advanced rating systems provide more nuanced performance metrics that go beyond simple point totals.
Data Analytics in Scoring
Modern axe throwing increasingly incorporates data analytics to track performance trends, identify improvement areas, and provide more sophisticated competitive rankings. These systems help players understand their strengths and weaknesses across different scoring zones and match situations.
Equipment Impact on Scoring
Axe Selection and Scoring
The choice of axe and throwing technique significantly impacts scoring in axe throwing. For instance, axes made from high-quality lumber often provide better rotation, allowing for more accurate throws aimed at the bullseye. Equipment selection directly affects scoring potential and consistency.
Target Quality and Scoring
The choice of material impacts durability and performance, affecting how well the axe sticks and how long the target lasts. Target quality influences scoring consistency and fairness across different venues and competitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my axe bounces out of the target?
The axe must remain in the target for the throw to count. If your axe bounces out, it scores zero points regardless of where it initially contacted the target. This rule ensures fair play and prevents disputes about counting throws that don’t stick.
How are ties handled in axe throwing competitions?
In case of a tie, a “sudden death” throw is made for the highest score. Sudden death throws are done until one thrower scores higher than the other. Tie-breaking procedures vary by competition format but typically involve additional throws until a winner emerges.
Can I call a Killshot on any throw?
Scoring points on a Killshot attempt closes both Killshots at that height. Killshots do not reset at the half. Killshot rules vary by league and competition level, with specific restrictions on when they can be attempted and how many times per game.
What if my axe lands between two scoring zones?
If the axe is in two rings simultaneously, then the player is awarded the points for the higher valued ring. This rule eliminates ambiguity and always favors the thrower with the higher point value when an axe touches multiple scoring areas.
Are there different scoring systems for different venues?
Yes, while most venues follow either WATL or IATF standards, some recreational facilities use simplified scoring systems. Each axe throwing facility has varying targets, scoring systems and game modes. It’s important to understand the specific scoring system used at your venue before competing.
Conclusion
Understanding how to score axe throwing is fundamental to enjoying and excelling in this exciting sport. From basic recreational scoring to advanced competitive formats, mastering the various systems and strategies will enhance your performance and appreciation of axe throwing. Whether you’re aiming for casual fun with friends or pursuing competitive excellence, the principles and techniques outlined in this guide provide the foundation for scoring success.
Remember that consistent practice, proper technique, and strategic thinking are just as important as understanding the scoring systems themselves. As axe throwing continues to evolve with new technologies and competition formats, staying informed about scoring innovations will help you maintain a competitive edge and maximize your enjoyment of this thrilling sport.
The key to success in axe throwing scoring lies in balancing accuracy with strategy, understanding when to take risks for higher points, and maintaining consistency across different match formats. With dedication and practice, you’ll develop the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in any axe throwing scoring system you encounter.
