Jessa Runciman learns how to throw an axe at Bad Axe Throwing

Jessa Runciman never envisioned throwing an axe in her lifetime, but the arrival of Bad Axe Throwing in Ottawa gave her the perfect excuse to try.

Chief axe thrower Kallen Saczkowski taught Runciman, guest host of CBC Radio's In Town and Out, some tips on how to throw an axe properly.

Axe throwing has become a popular activity in Europe, according to Saczkowski, which pushed a small group of friends to launch Bad Axe Throwing in Burlington, Ont.

The business has since opened five locations within the past year, with Ottawa being the first outside of southern Ontario.

"I just think it sounds cool and it sounds unique. I think even if you don't necessarily want to do it, you're intrigued by it," Saczkowski said of axe throwing.

"It sounds like it's not safe but I think when you come here and you try it, you realize how safe it really is."

Splinters have been the worst injury suffered during axe throwing, he said.

In Town and Out7:04Bad Axe Throwing - Drop in and haul axes for fun

It's the official public opening of its Ottawa location and they're doing it with a bang. This weekend, try your hand at throwing axes, for free at 1580 Liverpool Court, unit #8.

Keep firm grip, use 2 arms

The throwing spot is also a good distance from the target to prevent the axe from bouncing back to hit the thrower, but Saczkowski said patrons must wear shoes that cover their toes.

• Details on Bad Axe Throwing's open house

He provided these tips for the basic axe thrower:

1. Have a firm grip.
2. Use both arms to throw.
3. Ensure blade is facing forward, not rotated to either side.
4. Put your dominant foot forward.
5. Bring axe back directly over your head.
6. When you move back bring all your weight back, then when you throw bring all your weight forward.
7. Pick the size of axe you're comfortable with (bigger blade is "more forgiving" for newcomers)