WATL King of Diamonds Throwing Axe, Round Handle 17" Hickory, 2.20 lb Competition Precision

The WATL King of Diamonds Throwing Axe is a competition-grade throwing hatchet engineered for precision, consistent release, and reliable flight for advanced and aspiring axe throwers.

This premium throwing axe meets World Axe Throwing League design intent with a thin, curved blade profile and a straight, round hickory handle built for trimming and tuning. Built with competition performance in mind, its balance and weight let throwers dial-in rotations and find repeatable release points. Read on for practical details about construction, handling, and who will get the most from this model.

How is this axe different from a regular splitting or camping axe?

Unlike chopping tools, the King of Diamonds is shaped and finished specifically for axe throwing. The blade is ground thinner to penetrate wooden targets cleanly, and the straight round handle promotes predictable release timing. It’s not intended for chopping or felling; using it as such can damage the blade and void expectations about its throwing performance.

• Thin blade profile optimized for sticking in targets.
• Straight 17" round hickory handle for consistent hand placement.
• Curved blade geometry tuned for rotation and grip control.
• Not designed for splitting, batoning, or heavy-duty chopping.

What are the key specs and how do they affect performance?

The head weighs about 1.70 lbs and the complete axe averages 2.20 lbs, a balance favored by many competitive throwers for controlled rotation. The 17" handle offers room to shorten in quarter-inch steps so you can adjust spin and release without replacing the entire handle. These specs help experienced throwers refine distance, grip, and wrist snap for consistent hits.

• Average head weight: 1.70 lbs for stable momentum.
• Total weight: ~2.20 lbs for controlled flight and feel.
• 17" round hickory handle, easy to trim and sand for fit.
• Curved blade requires target care to avoid chipping.

How should I maintain and modify the handle and blade safely?

Trim the handle gradually—remove small amounts and test between cuts to preserve balance. Keep the blade sharp but avoid aggressive sharpening that alters the intended thin profile. Always use a proper target surface and protective flooring under the target to prevent blade damage from hitting hard or uneven backings.

• Cut the handle in small increments; test after each trim.
• Store dry and apply light oil to the wooden handle occasionally.
• Use plywood/OSB targets and secure padding under the board.
• Inspect edges for chips; avoid concrete contact to prevent damage.

Is this axe suitable for beginners or advanced throwers?

The King of Diamonds is built with competition characteristics that appeal most to intermediate and advanced throwers who understand rotation, release, and target care. Strongly consider starting with a more forgiving, thicker-profile trainer axe if you’re brand new to axe throwing; this model excels when you already have basic technique and need precision equipment.

• Recommended for intermediate to advanced throwers.
• Advanced blade profile rewards consistent, accurate throws.
• Beginners should consider trainer axes first to learn basics.
• Great choice for players preparing for league or tournament play.

Who is this for? The WATL King of Diamonds Throwing Axe suits competitive throwers and dedicated hobbyists seeking a competition-style hatchet that can be customized to match personal throwing mechanics. If you value a thin blade designed for sticking, a long round hickory handle you can trim, and a setup compatible with World Axe Throwing League preferences, this tool delivers the control and feel needed to refine accuracy. Avoid using this axe for splitting or heavy fieldwork—its performance is optimized for target throwing, safe practice environments, and ongoing maintenance to protect the thin blade edge.