How to soften wood for axe throwing?

Axe throwing has rapidly evolved from a niche lumberjack activity into a mainstream recreational sport enjoyed by enthusiasts around the world. Whether you’re setting up targets in your backyard or managing a commercial axe throwing venue, one crucial aspect of the experience is having properly conditioned wood targets that allow axes to stick consistently. This comprehensive guide explores the best methods, materials, and maintenance practices for softening wood for axe throwing targets, ensuring you achieve that satisfying thunk with every throw.

Why Softening Wood for Axe Throwing is Essential

The hardness of your target wood directly impacts the axe throwing experience. Wood that’s too hard will cause axes to bounce off, creating frustration and potential safety hazards. Conversely, wood that’s too soft will deteriorate quickly, requiring frequent and costly replacements. Finding that perfect balance is key to an enjoyable and sustainable axe throwing setup.

The Benefits of Properly Softened Wood

Properly conditioned wood targets offer several significant advantages:

1. Better Axe Sticking Rate: Softened wood makes it easier for axes to penetrate and remain stuck in the target
2. Reduced Risk of Bounce-back: Softer wood absorbs impact energy, minimizing dangerous ricochets
3. Extended Target Lifespan: Proper maintenance prevents excessive splintering and prolongs target life
4. Enhanced User Experience: More consistent throws mean more fun and less frustration
5. Improved Safety: Properly conditioned targets reduce erratic axe behavior

Choosing the Right Wood for Axe Throwing Targets

Before discussing softening methods, it’s important to select the right type of wood for your axe throwing target. Different wood species offer varying degrees of natural softness, durability, and “stickability.”

Best Wood Types for Axe Throwing Targets

Wood Type	Softness Rating	Durability	Cost	Recommended Use
Cottonwood	High (8/10)	Medium	Medium-High	Commercial venues, center boards
Pine	Medium (6/10)	Medium-Low	Low	Home targets, budget options
Poplar	Medium-High (7/10)	Medium	Medium	All-purpose use
Spruce	Medium (6/10)	Medium-Low	Low	Home targets, beginners
Cedar	Medium (5/10)	Medium-High	Medium-High	Outdoor targets
Palm (trunk sections)	Very High (9/10)	Medium	Variable	Premium targets

Cottonwood has emerged as the industry standard for commercial axe throwing venues due to its ideal combination of softness and durability. According to Lumber Jack’s Axe Throwing, “The true jewel of the axe throwing target is Cottonwood. Soft wood boards with beautiful, vertical grain make for the best targets” (Lumber Jack’s Axe Throwing, 2023).

Pine is another excellent and more accessible option for home setups, though it’s slightly harder than cottonwood. For those seeking budget-friendly options, pine’s widespread availability and lower cost make it attractive for DIY targets.

Wood Grain Orientation Matters

The orientation of wood grain significantly impacts axe sticking performance. Two main grain orientations are used for targets:

1. Vertical Grain (Face Grain): Traditional board targets use this orientation, with wood grain running vertically. This allows axes to split between the fibers.
2. End Grain: Increasingly popular in commercial venues, end grain targets consist of wood blocks with the grain facing the thrower. This orientation provides superior sticking characteristics and longevity.

As noted by Axcitement, “The ultimate solution to the best wood for axe throwing targets is using an End Grain target, as then you are not having to cut through fibers, but simply have the blade slide in between them” (Axcitement, 2021).

Methods to Soften Wood for Axe Throwing Targets

Now that we’ve covered wood selection, let’s explore the various methods to soften target wood to achieve optimal axe throwing performance. These techniques range from simple water application to more elaborate conditioning processes.

1. Regular Water Misting

The simplest and most commonly used method for softening axe throwing targets is regular water misting. This technique is widely adopted by commercial venues and home enthusiasts alike.

How to Implement:

1. Fill a Spray Bottle: Use a standard spray bottle or garden sprayer filled with regular tap water.
2. Apply Generously: Spray enough water to saturate the target surface without causing excessive runoff.
3. Establish a Schedule: For commercial venues, mist targets every hour or between groups. For home use, spray before each throwing session and at least once daily when not in use.

According to Axe Throwing Pro, “Sometimes you don’t need a fancy high tech solution, so fill up a squirt bottle with regular old water and spray the boards down before using them” (Axe Throwing Pro, 2022).

Heber Hatchets notes that “Regularly misting the face of the target with water over time helps to keep the wood soft, making it easier for axes to stick. This also helps preserve the target longer, since the soft wood doesn’t splinter out and shred as much as dry wood does” (Heber Hatchets, 2024).

Professional Tip:

For commercial venues, consider installing an integrated watering system for more consistent and efficient target maintenance. Axcitement confirms that “We use a watering system that we integrate into our no-bounce border and end-grain target systems” (Axcitement, 2020).

2. Deep Soaking Method

For more intensive softening, especially when setting up new targets that are particularly hard or dry, a deep soaking method can be effective.

How to Implement:

1. Prepare a Soaking Container: Find a container large enough to hold your target boards or sections.
2. Fill with Water: Add enough water to completely submerge the wood.
3. Soak Time: Leave the wood submerged for several hours to overnight.
4. Dry to Desired Moisture Level: Remove and allow to drain to a damp but not dripping state before installation.

This method is particularly effective for preparing new target boards before installation. According to Home Improvement Way, “One of the most common methods for softening wood for axe throwing is soaking it in water. This process involves submerging the wood in a container of water for an extended period of time, typically several hours to overnight” (Home Improvement Way, 2024).

3. Steam Treatment

Steaming is another effective method for softening wood, especially for harder varieties that might not respond well to simple water application.

How to Implement:

1. Create a Steam Chamber: Build a simple steam box using a large plastic container with a lid, or repurpose a large cooler.
2. Generate Steam: Use a clothing steamer, wallpaper steamer, or create your own with a pot of boiling water and a hose.
3. Steam the Wood: Place the wood in the chamber and allow it to steam for 1-2 hours.
4. Install While Still Warm: For best results, mount the wood while it’s still warm and pliable.

The steam causes wood fibers to swell and become more flexible, creating an ideal surface for axe sticking. This method is more work-intensive but can produce excellent results for particularly stubborn wood types.

4. Alcohol-Water Mixture Spray

A solution of alcohol and water can enhance penetration into wood fibers for more effective softening.

How to Implement:

1. Mix Solution: Combine equal parts rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) and water in a spray bottle.
2. Apply Generously: Spray the mixture onto the target surface until saturated.
3. Allow to Penetrate: Let the solution soak in for 30-60 minutes before use.

This method is particularly effective for dense woods, as the alcohol helps the water penetrate deeper into the grain. Woodworkly notes that “Add equal amounts of alcohol and water to a plastic cup and mix them well. Then add the mixture to a spraying bottle and spray all over the wood without missing any spots” (Woodworkly, 2024).

5. Natural Weathering

For those with patience and outdoor space, allowing wood to naturally weather can create excellent axe throwing targets.

How to Implement:

1. Set Up Outdoors: Place the wood in an uncovered outdoor location.
2. Allow Natural Exposure: Let the wood experience rain, sun, and weather cycles.
3. Monitor Condition: Check regularly until the desired softness is achieved (typically several weeks to months).

Many experienced throwers note that naturally weathered wood, especially cottonwood that has been exposed to the elements, develops ideal characteristics for axe throwing. Knife Depot’s blog observes that after cottonwood “has been outside for awhile, getting rained on and soaking up all the moisture, it acts like a ‘self-healing’ dart board” (Knife Depot, 2021).

Maintaining Optimal Target Condition

Once you’ve selected appropriate wood and implemented softening methods, proper maintenance ensures your targets remain in ideal condition for consistent axe sticking.

Daily Maintenance Schedule

For commercial venues or frequent home use, implement this maintenance schedule:

1. Morning Preparation: Thoroughly mist all targets before opening or the day’s first use.
2. Regular Misting: Apply water every 60-90 minutes during active use.
3. Between-Group Refreshing: Quickly spray targets between different user groups.
4. End-of-Day Treatment: Final misting with water and anti-mold treatment if needed.

Preventing Mold and Decay

Keeping wood damp creates ideal conditions for mold growth. Here’s how to prevent this common issue:

1. Vinegar Treatment: After the day’s final water misting, apply a light spray of undiluted white vinegar to kill potential mold spores.
2. Avoid Bleach: While intuitive, bleach is not recommended for mold prevention on wood targets. Axcitement explains: “According to conventional wisdom, bleach kills mold growth. However, this is somewhat of a myth as bleach only kills the mold on the surface without affecting the membrane underneath” (Axcitement, 2020).
3. Proper Storage: During extended non-use periods, store targets in a cool, dry place with adequate air circulation.
4. Balanced Moisture: Aim for wood that’s damp but not soaking wet to prevent excessive decay.

Target Rotation and Replacement

Even with perfect maintenance, targets will eventually wear out. Implement these practices for maximum target lifespan:

1. Use All Areas: Encourage throwing across the entire target surface to distribute wear evenly.
2. Rotate Boards: For multi-board targets, periodically swap positions to distribute wear.
3. Know When to Replace: Replace sections when they develop large holes, excessive splintering, or when axes consistently fail to stick.

Commercial Solutions and Products

For axe throwing businesses or serious enthusiasts, several commercial products are available to optimize target softening and maintenance.

Automated Watering Systems

Some commercial venues have implemented automated or semi-automated watering systems to maintain consistent target conditions:

1. Timed Misting Systems: Similar to greenhouse misting systems, these can be programmed to spray targets at regular intervals.
2. Integrated Border Systems: Companies like Axcitement offer specialized systems that incorporate watering into the target border design.
3. Rechargeable Sprayers: For more efficient manual application, consider electric sprayers that eliminate hand pumping.

Professional-Grade Spray Equipment

Upgrade from basic spray bottles for more efficient target maintenance:

1. Battery-Powered Sprayers: Scotts makes a rechargeable sprayer recommended by Axcitement that eliminates manual pumping.
2. Garden Pump Sprayers: These provide higher capacity and more consistent spray patterns.
3. Backpack Sprayers: For venues with many targets, backpack sprayers offer high capacity and comfortable application.

End-Grain Target Systems

The most advanced axe throwing venues are increasingly switching to end-grain target systems, which offer superior performance and longevity:

1. Block-Based Designs: These use small wood blocks arranged with end grain facing the thrower.
2. Modular Replacement: When sections wear out, individual blocks can be replaced rather than entire boards.
3. Extended Lifespan: According to Axcitement, end-grain targets can last “100x’s longer” than traditional board targets (Axcitement, End Grain Axe Throwing Targets).

Advanced Techniques for Optimal Target Performance

Beyond basic softening, these advanced techniques can further enhance axe throwing target performance.

Target Conditioning Cycles

Some commercial venues implement conditioning cycles to develop ideal target characteristics:

1. Initial Break-In: Allow new targets to be used for a period without additional softening to develop natural wear patterns.
2. Maintenance Phase: Implement regular misting to maintain optimal softness.
3. Rejuvenation Treatments: Periodically apply more intensive softening methods (soaking or steam) to extend target life.

Temperature Considerations

Wood hardness varies with temperature, so consider environmental factors:

1. Warmer Venues: May require less frequent water application as wood naturally softens in higher temperatures.
2. Cold Environments: May need more intensive softening as wood hardens significantly in cold conditions.
3. Climate Control: For year-round consistency, maintain venue temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C) when possible.

Custom Softening Solutions

Some venues have developed proprietary methods for maintaining targets:

1. Specialized Mixtures: Beyond simple water, some venues use custom solutions with additives to enhance penetration and wood conditioning.
2. Pressure Treatment: Using specialized equipment to force moisture into the wood grain.
3. Hybrid Materials: Combining wood with other materials to achieve optimal sticking characteristics.

Heber Hatchets hints at these advanced techniques: “We also have one other little Heber Hatchets secret that helps make our targets the best you’ll find anywhere! But that secret is one we keep guarded closely…” (Heber Hatchets, 2024).

DIY Wood Softening Solutions for Home Axe Throwing Targets

For home enthusiasts without commercial resources, these DIY approaches can effectively soften axe throwing targets.

Homemade Target Soaking Trough

Create a simple soaking system for target boards:

1. Materials: Use plastic rain gutters or construct a shallow wooden box lined with heavy plastic sheeting.
2. Setup: Place the trough below your mounted target or as a pre-installation soaking station.
3. Usage: Fill with enough water to keep the bottom of the target constantly damp through wicking action.

Recycled Spray Equipment

Repurpose common household items:

1. Shower Heads: Old shower heads connected to garden hoses make excellent target sprayers.
2. Cleaning Bottles: Empty household cleaner spray bottles work well for smaller setups.
3. Lawn Sprinklers: Position oscillating lawn sprinklers to periodically spray outdoor targets.

Budget-Friendly Softening Agents

These accessible materials can enhance water’s wood-softening properties:

1. Dish Soap Solution: Add a few drops of mild dish soap to water to reduce surface tension and improve penetration.
2. Vinegar Mix: A solution of 1 part white vinegar to 10 parts water can help soften wood while discouraging mold.
3. Fabric Softener: A small amount (1 tsp per gallon) helps water penetrate wood fibers more effectively.

Special Considerations for Different Target Types

Different target configurations require specialized approaches to softening.

Board-Style Targets

The traditional axe throwing target consists of several vertical boards placed side by side:

1. Board Seams: Pay special attention to the seams between boards, which can dry out faster than the center areas.
2. Mounting Consideration: Boards should be mounted with minimal gap to prevent axes from passing between them.
3. Grain Direction: Always ensure grain runs vertically for optimal axe sticking.

Log Round Targets

Using cross-sections of logs (also called “cookies” or “rounds”):

1. End Grain Exposure: These targets naturally present end grain to the thrower.
2. Crack Prevention: Soak rounds thoroughly before first use to reduce splitting.
3. Center Avoidance: The pith (center) of log rounds deteriorates quickly; avoid throwing at this area.

End-Grain Block Targets

These advanced targets use many small blocks arranged with end grain facing the thrower:

1. Block Replacement: Individual blocks can be replaced as they wear out.
2. Uniform Moisture: Ensure even application of water across all blocks.
3. Framework Maintenance: Regularly check the framework holding blocks for stability.

Safety Considerations When Softening Wood

While softening wood enhances the axe throwing experience, safety must remain the priority:

1. Floor Conditions: Ensure water doesn’t create slippery conditions. Axcitement advises: “Putting a lot of water on axe targets can have a few issues. You should make sure your floor does not get slippery. Slipping with an axe in your hand would not be good” (Axcitement, 2020).
2. Chemical Safety: When using additives beyond water, ensure proper ventilation and avoid harmful chemicals.
3. Mold Prevention: Regular cleaning and proper drying between uses helps prevent mold and associated health risks.
4. Structural Integrity: Excessively softened wood might compromise the structural integrity of target mounting systems.

Frequently Asked Questions About Softening Wood for Axe Throwing

1. How often should I spray my axe throwing targets with water?

For home use with occasional throwing, misting targets before each use and once daily when not in use is sufficient. Commercial venues should spray targets every hour during active use and between different groups. Axe Throwing Pro recommends that “If you are using them a lot or with a large group like at an axe throwing venue then spraying them down every hour or between groups is a good way to maximize its the woods life” (Axe Throwing Pro, 2022).

2. Can I use any other liquids besides water to soften my targets?

While water is the safest and most common option, some throwers have success with diluted alcohol-water mixtures (50/50) for deeper penetration into the wood. Avoid oils or commercial wood softeners as these can create inconsistent throwing surfaces and potential safety hazards. Stick with water for regular maintenance, possibly adding vinegar for mold prevention.

3. How can I tell if my target wood is at the optimal softness level?

The ideal target has a surface that gives slightly under firm thumb pressure but doesn’t feel soggy. When throwing, axes should stick with a satisfying thunk and remain secured without excessive splitting or splintering of the wood. If axes frequently bounce off, the wood is too hard; if the wood chunks out with each throw, it may be too soft or deteriorating.

4. Why do commercial venues replace targets less frequently than I need to at home?

Commercial venues typically use premium woods like cottonwood, implement rigorous maintenance schedules, and often utilize end-grain target designs that significantly extend target life. They also apply professional techniques and sometimes proprietary methods for optimal target conditioning. By adopting some of these practices at home, you can extend your target life considerably.

5. Is it better to start with a brand new target or use wood that’s already been weathered?

Contrary to what might seem intuitive, slightly weathered wood often makes better axe throwing targets than brand new boards. Heber Hatchets notes: “Targets that have the wood slightly beat up and worn actually are better than brand new targets! It just helps that used wood isn’t quite so firm, and the nicks and cracks already present help the axe head find a better entry into the wood” (Heber Hatchets, 2024). For home setups, consider weathering new wood naturally for a few weeks before installation, or accelerate the process with water treatments.

Conclusion: The Art and Science of Wood Softening for Axe Throwing

Softening wood for axe throwing targets represents the perfect intersection of traditional woodcraft and modern recreational sport. The methods outlined in this guide range from simple water application to advanced techniques used by professional venues, all aimed at creating that perfect target consistency where axes stick reliably throw after throw.

Whether you’re setting up a backyard target for weekend fun or managing a commercial axe throwing venue, proper wood selection and maintenance make all the difference in the experience. By implementing these practices, you’ll create targets that perform consistently, last longer, and provide the most satisfying axe throwing experience possible.

Remember that softening wood for axe throwing is both an art and a science—don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques to find what works best for your specific setup, wood type, and environmental conditions. With proper care and maintenance, your axe throwing targets will provide countless hours of satisfying throws and bullseyes.

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References:

1. The Complete Guide to Building an Axe Throwing Target – Heber Hatchets
2. What is the Best Wood for Axe Throwing Target? – Lumber Jack’s Axe Throwing Blog
3. Best Wood for Axe Throwing Targets – Axcitement
4. Watering Axe Targets – Axcitement
5. How to Soften Wood for Axe Throwing – Axe Throwing Pro