Which Axe Throwing Target Is Right for You?

Compare traditional timber, end grain, and digital target systems for better throws and smarter venue decisions.

Axe Throwing Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All — Neither Are the Targets

Whether you’re launching a new venue, running events, or upgrading your current setup, choosing the right type of axe throwing target makes a huge difference. From durability to player experience, the wrong board can mean bounce-outs, broken axes, or bored throwers.

At The Axe Throwing Supply Company UK, we supply multiple target types because different businesses and environments have different needs.

This guide walks you through the main types: Traditional Timber, End Grain, and Digital systems. Let’s help you hit the bullseye.

Traditional Timber Targets

timber-axe-throwing-target-board-blue-target-stencil

  • What are they: Vertical planks of timber with WATL spec stencil targets.

  • Best for: Indoor venues, league play and traditional axe throwing experiences.

  • Pros: Easy to replace sections, authentic look and feel, WATL-compliant.

  • Watch out for: Plank wear and bounce backs over time. Regular maintenance needed.

End Grain Targets

end-grain-target-system-with-rubber-safety-guards

  • What it is: Self-healing blocks of wood with the grain facing forward (like a butcher’s block).

  • Best for: High-traffic venues and commercial spaces

  • Pros: Durable, low bounce backs, less strain on axes, quieter to throw and much lower long-term maintenance.

  • Watch out for: PERCEIVED Higher cost — WHILST THE UPFRONT COSTS IS LARGER COMPARED TO TRADITIONAL TARGETS, END GRAIN IS MORE COSTS EFFECTIVE IN THE LONG TERM.

DIGITAL TARGET SYSTEMS

digital-target-system-on-axe-throwing-lane

  • What it is: A digital gameplay system that projects interactive axe throwing games onto your target board.

  • Best for: Venues, group events, and casual or first-time throwers.

  • Pros: Offers a variety of game modes, tracks scores in real-time, boosts replay value and makes axe throwing more accessible.

  • Watch out for: Needs correct lighting, wall space and a projector-friendly target surface. (we take care of this during installation.)

How We Help You Choose the Right Setup

axe-throwing-supply-company-team-working-on-axe-throwing-lane

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or seasoned venue owner, we can help you:

- Assess your space, footfall and gameplay needs
- Choose the right target type (or mix!) for your setup
- Deliver full mounting systems and backboards
- Install or advise on digital compatibility
- Source weather-resistant builds for outdoor or mobile use

We’ve worked with everyone from major UK venues to event organisers across Europe — and we’re happy to guide you from day one.

FAQ

End grain targets offer the longest lifespan and are ideal for high-traffic lanes.
Yes, but you’ll need to ensure you have the right power supply and weather protection for the projection system.
Our traditional timber targets are WATL spec and used by competition-standard venues.
Absolutely — many venues use digital targets for casual groups and traditional or end grain boards for serious throwers.
It depends on traffic, but on average, every 1–3 months for high-use lanes.

Let’s Make the Right Call — First Time

Still unsure? No problem. Send us a few photos of your space or let us know your use case and we’ll recommend the best target type for your setup and audience.

Ready to talk targets? Get in touch today.

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