Startup Equipment

Books and Resources to Start Strong

Before you invest in equipment, read about the business model itself. These resources will help you understand the operational, financial, and safety requirements of running a mobile ax throwing business.

The Lean Startup by Eric Ries

This book teaches you how to validate your business idea with minimal upfront investment and adjust based on customer feedback. For ax throwing, this means testing your service model, pricing, and target market before buying premium equipment. You’ll learn to avoid overspending on gear you might not need.

Shop The Lean Startup on Amazon →

The Profit First by Mike Michalowicz

Managing cash flow is critical when you’re buying expensive axes, targets, and safety equipment. This book simplifies accounting and shows you how to separate profit, taxes, and operating costs before they become problems. You’ll learn exactly how much revenue you actually need to stay afloat.

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Small Business Management by Justin G. Longenecker

This textbook covers licensing, liability, insurance, and regulations—all essential before you operate. You’ll understand what permits you need, how to structure your business legally, and what insurance coverage protects you from ax-related incidents. It’s dense but practical.

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Eventology by Mark Sonder

Since mobile ax throwing often targets events, parties, and corporate outings, understanding event management is valuable. This book covers logistics, timeline management, and customer expectations for event-based businesses. You’ll learn how to deliver consistent experiences across multiple locations.

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Equipment You Need

Your equipment list breaks down into axes, targets, safety gear, transport, and setup tools. Start with quality where it matters most: axes and targets. These are your core product. Save money on transport and storage initially.

Axes and Throwing Tools

• Competition-grade throwing axes: Typically 1.5 to 2 pounds with a 16-inch handle. You’ll need 4–8 axes depending on group size (more people means more simultaneous throws). Look for balanced, forged steel axes with replaceable blades.
• Hatchets: Lighter, single-bladed options for beginners or younger participants. Having 2–3 hatchets expands your market.
• Tomahawks: Spinny, rotating axes that add variety and appeal to events. Optional but crowd-pleasing.

Shop throwing axes on Amazon →

Targets

• Wood target rounds: 12–18 inch diameter logs made from soft pine or cottonwood. You’ll need 2–4 rounds to rotate throws and prevent one target from becoming too damaged. Replace every 6–12 months depending on usage.
• Target stands or frames: Metal or wooden frames that hold rounds at throwing height (typically 5–6 feet). Portable stands collapse for transport.
• Blade catchers or safety guards: Plywood or metal shields around the throwing area to catch missed throws and protect spectators.

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Safety and Protective Equipment

• Safety glasses or face shields: Protect throwers and spectators from ricochets and splinters. Budget for 10–20 pairs.
• First aid kit: Comprehensive kit rated for outdoor and minor injury scenarios.
• Closed-toe shoe requirement signage: Simple printed signs reminding participants of dress code.
• Rope or barriers: Clearly mark the throwing line and spectator zones.
• Safety training checklist: Written materials documenting how you brief participants on safe throwing.

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Transport and Storage

• Heavy-duty equipment bag or case: Protects axes during transit. Soft cases run $50–150; hard cases cost more but last longer.
• Truck bed organizer or shelving: If you’re using a truck, keep equipment organized and secured.
• Tarp and tie-downs: Cover equipment and secure it during transport.
• Storage rack or cabinet: At your home or small workspace for off-season storage and maintenance.

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Setup and Maintenance Tools

• Replacement blades: Keep spares for damaged axes (typically $10–30 each).
• Sharpening stone or file: Maintain blade edges between throws.
• Hammer and nails: For emergency target repairs on-site.
• Measuring tape: Ensure consistent throwing distances.
• Wrench or multi-tool: For stand assembly and adjustments.
• Broom or brush: Clean debris and splinters from targets and throwing areas.

Shop sharpening tools on Amazon →

What to Buy First vs Later

Prioritize purchases based on what directly generates revenue and what you can improve over time.

• First: 4–6 quality throwing axes, 2–3 target rounds, a portable stand, safety glasses, and a transport bag. This covers a basic two-person throwing experience and costs roughly $800–1,500.
• Second (after first events): Additional axes and hatchets, extra target rounds, a backup stand, and better safety barriers. Add $500–800.
• Third (as you grow): Specialized equipment like tomahawks, premium target frames, electric tools for maintenance, branded signage, and a dedicated storage solution. Add $500–1,200.
• Later: High-end lighting for evening events, weather protection (tent or canopy), and a dedicated trailer or vehicle modification.

New vs Used Equipment

Buy new axes and throwing tools. Used axes are risky—you can’t verify their history, balance, or structural integrity. A cracked or poorly weighted ax fails mid-throw, which is dangerous and unprofessional. Expect to spend $80–150 per new ax. This is non-negotiable.

Used wood targets and stands are acceptable if they’re in good condition. A used target round might cost $20–40 versus $50–70 new. Inspect for deep cracks or rot before buying. Used safety equipment, barriers, and transport bags are fine—check for damage but don’t overpay for newness. Buy maintenance tools and accessories new or used indiscriminately; these wear out or get replaced regardless.

Where to Buy

• Specialty ax throwing suppliers: Companies like Badlands Outdoor Gear or local woodworking shops sell competition-grade axes and sometimes target rounds. They’re more expensive than Amazon but offer expertise and bulk discounts.
• Woodworking supply stores: Source quality target logs, sharpening tools, and maintenance supplies. Local stores often help with custom target sizing.
• Farm and agricultural suppliers: Tractor Supply, Ace Hardware, and similar stores stock axes, safety gear, rope, tarps, and storage solutions at fair prices.
• Online marketplaces: Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp for used stands, storage, and occasional equipment sales from other throwing businesses.
• Sporting goods retailers: Dick’s Sporting Goods and REI carry quality safety glasses, first aid kits, and some throwing tools.
• Custom fabricators: Welders or carpenters in your area can build custom target stands and safety frames cheaper than buying pre-made versions.