Axe-pert Advice: 3 Tips to Unleash the Power of Your Tomahawk
Posted by EKnives on Jun 20th 2024
You've decided to embrace your inner frontiersman and take up the art of tomahawk throwing. Whether you're a seasoned woodsman or just getting started after stumbling on some tomahawks for sale, mastering the throw takes practice, patience, and a trusty tomahawk by your side.
But just like any tool or weapon, your throwing tomahawk needs a little TLC to keep it in tip-top shape. Fear not, fellow adventurer, for we're here to guide you through the ins and outs of tomahawk care.
1. Respect the Edge: Maintenance Tips
First things first, let's talk about that sharp edge. Your tomahawk's blade is your best friend when it comes to hitting your mark with precision, so it deserves some extra love and attention. After each throwing session, gently wipe the blade down with a clean cloth to remove any dirt, sap, or debris. If you've been throwing in particularly rough terrain, a quick rinse with warm, soapy water followed by thorough drying is in order.
Now, let's talk about sharpening. Like a trusty sidekick, your tomahawk's edge needs to stay sharp to perform its best. Invest in a good-quality sharpening stone or file and learn the art of honing that blade to perfection. Remember, a sharp blade is not only more effective but also safer to use. Just be careful not to overdo it; you want a keen edge, not a razor-sharp one.
2. Rust Never Sleeps: Cleaning Tips
Ah, rust: the bane of every outdoor person's existence. Keeping your tomahawk rust-free is key to ensuring its longevity and performance. To prevent rust from taking hold, make sure to dry your tomahawk thoroughly after each use, especially if you expose it to moisture. A light coating of oil or WD-40 on the metal parts can also help ward off oxidation.
If you do happen to spot some rust starting to form, don't panic. Grab a piece of fine steel wool or a rust eraser and gently scrub away the offending spots. For stubborn rust, you can try soaking the affected area in vinegar or a rust remover solution but be sure to rinse and dry thoroughly afterward to prevent any damage to the metal.
3. Handle with Care: Care Tips
While the blade gets most of the attention, let's not forget about the handle. After all, it's what gives you the leverage and control you need to make those killer throws. Depending on the material, your tomahawk's handle may require different care techniques.
If your tomahawk has a wooden handle, keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear, such as splintering or cracking. Light sanding and a coat of wood finish or linseed oil can help keep the wood in good condition and protect it from the elements. Just be sure to let it dry completely before using your tomahawk again.
For synthetic or composite handles, a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth should suffice to keep them clean. Avoid exposing these handles to extreme temperatures or prolonged sunlight, as this can cause them to degrade over time.
Know Your Limits: Other Advice
Last but not least, a few words of wisdom to keep in mind as you embark on your tomahawk-throwing adventures:
- Put safety first. Always throw your tomahawk in a designated area away from people, pets, and property, and make sure you have plenty of space to move around safely.
- Practice makes perfect. Don't get discouraged if you don't hit your target right away; tomahawk throwing takes time and patience to master. Keep practicing, and you'll get there.
- Find your grip. You can find a few different grip styles online. Determine which one feels most comfortable for you. A standard one is to hold your dominant hand near the bottom of the handle with your non-dominant hand near the head.
- Solidify your stance. A good stance will help you maintain control when you throw. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, facing your target, with your throwing arm extended straight out in front of you. Keep your knees slightly bent and your weight evenly distributed between both feet to help absorb the recoil of the throw.
- Respect the land. Whether you're throwing in your backyard or out in the wilderness, always be mindful of your surroundings and leave no trace behind.
With these tips and a little bit of elbow grease, your throwing tomahawk will be ready to accompany you on all your wild adventures for years to come. So go ahead, embrace your inner frontiersman or woman, and let the tomahawk-throwing games begin!
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Infographic
You've decided to take up tomahawk throwing, whether you're experienced or just starting out. Your tomahawk needs care to stay in shape. This infographic will guide you through tomahawk care.