Tournament-Ready Throwing Hatchet Built to League Standards

The Cold Steel Competition Throwing Hatchet (CS-90AXF) is a purpose-built axe specifically engineered to meet the strict regulations of competitive axe throwing leagues including WATL (World Axe Throwing League) and NATF (National Axe Throwing Federation). Based on Cold Steel's popular Axe Gang Hatchet, this modified competition version features precise dimensions and weight distribution optimized for consistent rotation and solid sticking. The drop-forged 1055 carbon steel head weighs exactly 21 ounces with a 4-inch cutting edge, while the straight American hickory handle provides 16 inches of overall length for a total weight of 30 ounces (1 pound 14 ounces). The broad, wedge-shaped head offers an ideal surface for applying personal logos and team decals to showcase your style in competition. The smooth-finished hickory handle ensures clean release during throws while providing excellent balance for predictable rotation. Whether you're training for your first tournament or competing at the championship level, this hatchet delivers the consistency and durability serious throwers demand.

Key Features

• WATL and NATF Tournament Compliant: Precisely engineered to meet the strict specifications required by the World Axe Throwing League and National Axe Throwing Federation for official tournament competition. Use the same equipment in practice that you'll throw in competition.
• Drop-Forged 1055 Carbon Steel Head: High-carbon steel head is drop forged for superior grain structure, toughness, and edge durability. The 1055 steel provides excellent shock resistance to withstand repeated impacts against wood targets without chipping or breaking.
• Precisely Weighted 21-Ounce Head: The 21-ounce head weight meets league requirements and provides optimal momentum for solid sticking without being so heavy that it tires throwers during extended practice sessions or tournament play.
• 4-Inch Cutting Edge: The 4-inch wide cutting edge meets regulation specifications while providing a large contact surface area that increases sticking probability and reduces bounceouts. Sharp corners dig into wood targets for secure purchase.
• 16-Inch American Hickory Handle: Straight, traditional hickory handle absorbs shock effectively while the 16-inch length provides the precise overall length required for tournament competition. Smooth finish ensures clean, snag-free release.
• 30-Ounce Total Weight: The precisely balanced 30-ounce total weight (1 pound 14 ounces) falls within competition specifications and provides excellent balance for consistent rotation patterns across all throwing distances.
• Broad Wedge-Shaped Head Design: The wide, flat head surfaces provide ample space for applying personal logos, team decals, or sponsor graphics. Customize your competition axe to match your team colors or personal brand.
• Optimized Balance Point: Weight distribution is carefully calculated to provide predictable rotation that helps throwers develop consistent technique. The balance feels slightly head-heavy, promoting natural rotation.
• Thin Profile Blade: The blade profile is kept relatively thin to reduce weight while the sharp geometry enables deep penetration into wooden targets for solid sticks that resist falling out.
• Durable Construction: Built to withstand thousands of throws against regulation wooden targets. The secure head-to-handle connection maintains integrity even after extended tournament use.

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: Cold Steel
• Model: Competition Thrower
• Part Number: CS-90AXF
• UPC: 705442018971
• Type: Throwing Hatchet/Axe
• Overall Length: 16 inches
• Head Width: 5 inches
• Cutting Edge Length: 4 inches
• Head Weight: 21 ounces
• Total Weight: 30 ounces (1 lb 14 oz)
• Head Material: 1055 Carbon Steel
• Head Construction: Drop Forged
• Handle Material: American Hickory
• Handle Length: 16 inches
• Edge Type: Plain
• Color: Silver (head), Natural Wood (handle)
• Finish: Satin/Natural
• Packaging: Box
• Tournament Compliance: WATL, NATF
• Made In: Taiwan

Understanding Competition Axe Throwing Regulations

The World Axe Throwing League (WATL) and National Axe Throwing Federation (NATF) have established specific requirements for competition axes to ensure fair play and safety. These regulations specify minimum and maximum dimensions for handle length, head weight, cutting edge width, and total weight. The Competition Throwing Hatchet is engineered to fall within these specifications, making it legal for use in sanctioned tournaments. The 21-ounce head weight provides sufficient mass for solid sticking without exceeding maximum weight limits. The 4-inch cutting edge offers good target contact while the 16-inch overall length keeps the axe within regulation size limits. Using a competition-legal practice axe ensures you develop technique with the same equipment you'll throw in tournaments.

Why 1055 Carbon Steel for Throwing Axes

The 1055 carbon steel used in this throwing hatchet represents an ideal balance of properties for competition throwing. With approximately 0.55% carbon content, this steel provides sufficient hardness to maintain a working edge while retaining the toughness needed to absorb repeated high-impact throws without chipping, cracking, or breaking. The drop-forging process further enhances the steel's grain structure for superior shock resistance. Unlike harder steels that might be brittle, or softer steels that would bend or mushroom with use, 1055 carbon steel delivers the durability serious competitive throwers require. The edge can be easily resharpened when needed using basic files or sharpening stones.

Compatibility & Use

This competition throwing hatchet is specifically designed for axe throwing venues, leagues, and tournaments operating under WATL or NATF rules. The dimensions and weight make it suitable for standard competition distances including 12 feet (one rotation) and 15 feet (one and a half rotations). The balance works well for both overhand and underhand throwing styles. Throwers of various skill levels from beginners to champions will find the Competition Throwing Hatchet performs consistently. The broad head surfaces can be customized with vinyl decals, painted logos, or engraved designs to personalize your competition axe. Note: Check with your specific league or venue for any additional equipment requirements.

What's Included

• Cold Steel Competition Throwing Hatchet
• Original Packaging

Ideal For

Perfect for competitive axe throwers participating in WATL or NATF sanctioned tournaments and leagues. Excellent for axe throwing venue customers who want to own their personal competition axe rather than using house axes. Ideal for teams and clubs outfitting multiple members with matching regulation equipment. Great for serious recreational throwers who practice regularly at home or at venues and want tournament-legal equipment. Suitable for beginners learning proper technique with competition-standard equipment from the start. Also appealing to axe throwing enthusiasts who collect throwing implements or want backup axes for practice sessions.

Throwing Tips and Technique

For consistent throws, grip the handle near the base with one or both hands depending on your preferred style. Face your target squarely with feet shoulder-width apart. Bring the axe straight back behind your head, then throw straight forward toward the target in a smooth motion. Release when your arm is extended toward the target - the axe should complete approximately one rotation before striking. For 12-foot distances, stand at the regulation line. For 15-foot throws, move back and adjust your throwing power. Practice consistency in your grip, stance, and release point. The Competition Throwing Hatchet's balanced design helps develop proper rotation. Start with closer distances and work back as your technique improves.

Care and Maintenance

After throwing sessions, inspect the head-to-handle connection for any loosening. Wipe down the carbon steel head and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust, especially if storing between sessions. The hickory handle may be lightly sanded if it develops rough spots from use. Check the cutting edge periodically and resharpen when needed using a file or sharpening stone - maintaining a sharp edge improves sticking performance. If the handle becomes loose in the head, it may need to be tightened or replaced following standard axe handle replacement procedures. Store in a dry location. Transport the axe in a protective sheath or case to prevent damage and for safety.

Safety Considerations

Axe throwing should only be performed in designated throwing venues or properly constructed home throwing areas with appropriate backstops and safety barriers. Never throw axes toward people, animals, or in uncontrolled environments. Ensure the throwing lane is clear and all bystanders are behind the throwing line. Inspect the axe before each throwing session for loose handles or damaged heads. Wear closed-toe shoes - never throw axes barefoot or in sandals. Do not throw while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Follow all venue or league safety rules. Keep spectators at a safe distance. Only retrieve axes when all throwing has stopped and the lane is clear.

About Cold Steel and Competition Throwing

Cold Steel has built a reputation for producing high-performance edged tools and weapons that combine traditional designs with modern materials and rigorous testing. The Competition Throwing Hatchet represents Cold Steel's entry into the rapidly growing sport of competitive axe throwing. By modifying their popular Axe Gang Hatchet to meet WATL and NATF specifications, Cold Steel provides throwers with tournament-legal equipment at an accessible price point. The company's commitment to durability and real-world performance ensures this throwing axe will withstand the demanding conditions of regular competition and practice use.