AXE THROWING DOWNTOWN? Yes, that exists. Epic Axe Throwing has opened its doors in Orlando for those seeking an adrenaline rush
Find your inner lumberjack and throw some axes (at a stationary wooden target, of course). Epic Axe Throwing has opened its doors on East Robinson Street in downtown Orlando for those who are looking for the adrenaline rush that the bowling alley can’t quite provide.
After a trip to Montreal, where axe throwing is “the rage,” friends Ken Siu and Jessada Sunhachawi returned to Orlando, disappointed there wasn’t a similar experience in Central Florida.
“We're like, 'Someone should open one of these,'” Siu said. Soon they were asking themselves, "What about us opening one of these?"
The Epic Axe Throwing co-owners then got to work on their own location, which took more than a year from concept to opening. Siu and Sunhachawi said the process took patience and perseverance.
“Luckily we had wood to throw axes at whenever we got frustrated,” Sunhachawi said.
Orlando Sentinel food reporter Lauren Delgado agreed that hurling sharp objects at wood can help relieve some pent-up anger.
“Typically, businesses encourage you not to destroy any part of their building, but Epic Axe Throwing encourages you to whale on (a select portion of ) their building,” Delgado said. “Talk about catharsis.”
Delgado joined myself and editors Todd Stewart and Katie Christiansen from our Things to Do team to get a better perspective on the new axe-throwing range. We took things into our own hands, and by things, I mean axes. Stewart donned his best flannel shirt for the occasion, hoping it would activate his secret lumberjack powers.
After some practice throws and some instruction from coach Jessada, Stewart suggested a little competition: boys vs. girls. We all jumped at the opportunity to demonstrate our new axe-throwing skills.
We were offered a choice of three different axes for our throwing pleasure. One was a heavier axe, which required a two-handed throw. The other two shared a lighter, unibody construction and could be hurled with one hand.
After choosing our weapon, we let the games begin.
Stewart buried an axe in the wood on his second competition throw, resulting in a satisfying “thunk” that reverberated throughout the cavernous space. Christiansen followed suit, and I was able to sink one soon after. Later, Delgado put up two points for the girls’ team.
It was a hard-fought battle, but when the dust had settled, the boys emerged victoriously. Stewart contributed a few points but noted his ensemble wasn’t as helpful as he had wished.
“As unquestionably the worst player in our foursome, it's clear that flannel alone isn't enough to make you a champion axe thrower,” Stewart said.
Since we managed to sneak away from the office and instead threw axes for almost two hours, I’d say we all came away winners.
Epic Axe Throwing can be found at 47 E. Robinson St. #104 in downtown Orlando. Depending on your group size and length of time, a throwing session can cost anywhere from $25 per person plus tax for one hour up to $40 per person for two hours. Call 385-429-3386, email Axe_Us@epicaxethrowing.com or book online at epicaxethrowing.com. Booking ahead is encouraged, but walkins are available.
If you go, be sure to wear closed toed shoes. Light snacks, drinks and water are for sale at the facility. Alcohol is not served at this time. Anyone 13 and up can participate, but those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.