Throwing axes are popular tools used in various activities such as camping, survival skills, and competitive sports. They require precision and technique to throw accurately, and making your own throwing axe can enhance your experience and provide a sense of accomplishment. Making a throwing axe can also save you money compared to purchasing one. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making your own throwing axe.
Before we begin, it is important to note that making a throwing axe requires proper safety precautions and tools. Always wear protective gear such as gloves and goggles, and work in a well-ventilated area.
The first step in making a throwing axe is selecting a suitable piece of metal. You can repurpose an old axe head or use a thick piece of metal such as steel. It is recommended to choose a metal that is durable and has a good weight for throwing. Next, you will need to shape the metal into the desired form of the throwing axe.
Using a grinder or file, carefully shape the metal into the desired axe head shape. Pay attention to the balance and weight distribution, as these factors significantly impact the throwing ability. Be sure to smooth out any rough edges or imperfections to prevent injury during throwing.
Once you have shaped the axe head, it is time to attach the handle. Choose a sturdy wooden handle that is comfortable to hold and provides a good grip. To attach the handle, drill a hole in the center of the axe head that matches the diameter of the handle. Apply adhesive or epoxy to the hole and insert the handle, making sure it is securely fastened. Allow the adhesive to dry and set according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
How to Make a Throwing Axe
Throwing axes have been used for centuries as tools and weapons. If you’re interested in making your own throwing axe, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of crafting your very own throwing axe.
Materials and Tools You Will Need:
Before you get started, gather the following materials and tools:
- Axe head
- Handle material (wood, fiberglass, or steel)
- Hacksaw
- Sandpaper
- Drill
- File
- Clamps
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Protective gloves and eyewear
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Begin by selecting a suitable axe head. Look for one with a balanced weight and a sharp cutting edge.
- This step involves making the handle. Measure and cut the handle material according to your desired length, keeping in mind the weight and size of the axe head. Use the hacksaw to cut the material.
- Smooth the cut edges of the handle material using sandpaper. This will ensure a comfortable grip and prevent splinters.
- Next, find the center of the handle material and use a drill to make a hole. The hole should be slightly smaller than the width of the axe head.
- Fit the axe head onto the handle material, making sure it aligns with the hole. Attach clamps to hold everything securely in place.
- Using a file, shape the handle material to fit snugly into the axe head, removing any excess material if necessary.
- Remove the clamps and test the fit of the axe head on the handle. Make any necessary adjustments before proceeding.
- Once satisfied with the fit, remove the axe head and apply a durable adhesive to the hole in the handle material.
- Reattach the axe head onto the handle, making sure it is securely in place. Wipe away any excess adhesive.
- Allow the adhesive to dry and set according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Once the adhesive is fully dry, your throwing axe is ready to use!
Remember to always exercise caution and proper safety measures when using a throwing axe. Happy throwing!
| Materials | Tools |
|---|---|
| Axe head | Hacksaw |
| Handle material | Sandpaper |
| Drill | |
| File | |
| Clamps | |
| Measuring tape | |
| Pencil | |
| Protective gloves and eyewear |
Choosing the right materials
When making a throwing axe, it is important to choose the right materials to ensure the durability and effectiveness of your weapon. Here are some factors to consider:
Head material: The head of the axe should be made of a strong and durable material, such as high carbon steel or stainless steel. These materials are known for their strength and ability to withstand impact.
Handle material: The handle of the axe should be made of a sturdy material that provides a good grip and absorbs shock. Common options include wood, fiberglass, or carbon fiber. Wood handles offer a traditional look and feel, while fiberglass and carbon fiber handles provide added strength and durability.
Weight: The weight of the axe is an important consideration, as it affects the balance and throwing ability. A heavier axe may offer more power, but it can be more difficult to throw accurately. On the other hand, a lighter axe may be easier to throw but may not have as much impact on the target.
Shape: The shape of the axe head can vary, with some designs featuring a broader cutting edge for better penetration, while others have a narrower profile for improved accuracy and speed. Consider your throwing technique and preferences when selecting the shape.
Budget: Finally, consider your budget when choosing materials. High-quality materials may come at a higher cost, but they often offer better performance and longevity. However, if you are on a tight budget, there are also more affordable options available.
By carefully considering these factors and selecting the right materials, you can ensure that your throwing axe is not only effective but also durable and reliable.
Preparing the Handle
When making a throwing axe, the handle is a crucial component that will determine its balance and stability. Follow these steps to prepare the handle:
1. Choose the Right Wood
Select a strong and durable wood for the handle, such as hickory or ash. These woods have excellent strength-to-weight ratios and are commonly used for tool handles. Avoid softwoods like pine, as they may not be strong enough to withstand the impact of throwing.
2. Measure and Cut the Handle
Measure the desired length of the handle based on your personal preference and the size of the axe head. Use a saw to cut the wood to the appropriate length. A typical handle length for a throwing axe is between 12 and 16 inches, but you can adjust it to your liking.
3. Shape the Handle
Use a rasp, file, or sandpaper to shape the handle. Round the edges and ensure a comfortable grip by removing any rough or sharp spots. You can also carve patterns or designs into the handle for added aesthetics.
4. Smooth the Handle
After shaping, smooth the handle using sandpaper of various grits. Start with a coarse grit (around 80) to remove any remaining rough spots, and gradually work your way up to a finer grit (around 220) for a smooth finish. Smooth handles provide better grip and prevent splinters.
5. Apply a Protective Finish
To protect the wood from moisture and extend its lifespan, apply a coat of wood finish or sealant. Options like linseed oil, tung oil, or varnish are commonly used for this purpose. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying time.
By properly preparing the handle, you can ensure a sturdy and comfortable grip while throwing the axe. Take your time and pay attention to detail to create a handle that will enhance your throwing experience.
Shaping the axe head
Once you have selected and prepared the appropriate piece of metal for your axe head, it is time to shape it to the desired form. Follow these steps:
1. Mark the outline
Using a permanent marker or scribe, carefully mark the outline of the axe head on the metal. Ensure precision and accuracy in the shape and size.
2. Cut the rough shape
Using a metal cutting tool, carefully cut along the marked outline to create a rough shape of the axe head. Take your time and work slowly to avoid any mistakes.
3. Use a grinder to refine the shape
After cutting the rough shape, use a grinder equipped with a cutting wheel to refine and shape the axe head further. This will allow you to remove any excess metal and create the desired form.
4. Smooth the edges
Once you are satisfied with the shape of the axe head, use a metal file or sandpaper to smooth out the edges. This will ensure a clean and finished look.
5. Sharpen the blade
Lastly, use a sharpening stone or tool to sharpen the blade of the axe head. This step is crucial for ensuring the axe is effective for cutting wood.
By following these steps, you can successfully shape the axe head to your desired form and ensure its functionality.
Attaching the handle to the head
Once you have finished shaping the head of the throwing axe, it is time to attach the handle. This step is crucial as it ensures the stability and functionality of the axe.
First, select a suitable handle for your throwing axe. Ideally, it should be made of durable and strong wood, such as hickory or ash. Make sure the handle is long enough to provide a good grip and balance when throwing.
Next, measure the length of the eye of the axe head. The eye is the hole through which the handle will be inserted. Use a measuring tape or ruler to determine the correct length.
With your handle and axe head ready, place the handle into the eye of the axe head. Make sure it fits snugly and is centered. You may need to sand or shave the handle slightly to achieve the perfect fit.
At this point, you can choose to secure the handle with a wedge or epoxy resin. If using a wedge, carefully split the top of the handle and insert the wedge, making sure it goes all the way through. If using epoxy resin, apply a generous amount to the eye of the axe head before inserting the handle.
Once the handle is securely in place, allow the adhesive or epoxy resin to dry completely. This may take several hours or according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid using the axe until the adhesive has fully cured.
After the adhesive has dried, give the axe a few test swings to ensure the handle is secure and comfortable. Make any necessary adjustments before using the throwing axe for its intended purpose.
Remember to always handle the throwing axe with care and wear appropriate protective gear when using it. Safety should always be a top priority.
Finishing touches and testing
After you have finished shaping and sharpening the axe blade, it’s time to give your throwing axe some finishing touches. These steps will ensure that your axe is not only functional but also visually appealing.
First, you can sand down any rough edges and splinters using sandpaper. This will make the axe handle smooth and comfortable to hold. Be sure to wear protective gloves during this process to avoid any injuries.
Next, you can apply a coat of varnish or paint to the handle of the axe. This will not only protect the wood from moisture but also give it a polished appearance. Allow the varnish or paint to thoroughly dry before moving on to the next step.
Once the handle is dry, you can attach the axe head securely to the handle. Use a strong adhesive or screws to ensure that the head does not come loose during use. It’s a good idea to test the strength and stability of the head before throwing the axe.
Finally, it’s time to test your throwing axe. Find a suitable target, such as a tree stump or a designated throwing range, and practice your throwing technique. Start by standing at a suitable distance from the target and safely throw the axe towards it. Pay attention to the accuracy and precision of your throws.
| Materials | Tools |
|---|---|
| Wooden handle | Saw |
| Steel axe head | File |
| Screws | Sandpaper |
| Adhesive | Varnish or paint |
Remember to always practice throwing the axe in a safe environment and follow any local regulations or guidelines for axe throwing. With proper finishing touches and regular practice, you’ll soon become a skilled axe thrower!
