How to Start an Axe-Throwing Party Business

Part 1 - How to start an Axe-Throwing Party business - Background

Axe ranges are unique entertainment venues that cater to axe-throwing enthusiasts and individuals who want to try something new. Most axe ranges also have a “travel” option where they will come to a home or business and set up a mobile range. These parties are great for work or bachelor parties.

You may also be interested in additional unique business ideas.

Our guide is in 3 parts:

• Part 1 - How to start an Axe Throwing business - Background
• Part 2 - Our planner tool to see if this idea is the right fit for you
• Part 3 - Action plan to get started

What are the costs involved in opening an axe-throwing party business?

Costs can be rather high. The most expensive aspect of starting this business is getting an insurance company to agree to insure the activity. Many insurers don’t understand the business model. As a result, some ranges pay between $10,000 and $25,000 in premium per month for liability coverage.

Other expenses include the cost of throwing axes, which retail from $20 up to $150 per axe.

If you run a mobile axe-throwing range, then you will need to factor in the cost of a truck or van and a trailer to haul equipment to venues and events. This can add anywhere between $25,000 to $50,000 to the initial startup cost.

In addition to the insurance and equipment, there’s the range itself. A typical range needs safety cages, wooden stand-up targets, a treated floor to prevent slips and falls, proper lighting, and safety equipment for customers. Unless you are leasing an existing (or old) range, expect to pay between $50,000 and $150,000 to remodel a building for your business.

What are the ongoing expenses for an axe-throwing party business?

Ongoing expenses include insurance, utilities, and maintenance on the equipment (axes and related gear). Periodic replacement of safety gear is also recommended. These costs may amount to between $3,000 and $20,000 per month, depending on how expensive your insurance is and how much abuse your equipment suffers during normal use.

Who is the target market?

Preferred customers are those who are gaming enthusiasts. Axe-throwing also appeals to a wide range of other audiences, some of which include the vape community, cigar community, and firearms enthusiasts.

How does an axe-throwing party business make money?

Most axe-throwing companies make money by charging a per-hour or flat fee for axe-throwing, either at the business’s location, at a mobile range set up at a customer’s home or business, or at at an amusement park or fair. Another way that these businesses make money is by hosting weekly axe throwing leagues sponsored by the National Axe Throwing League (NATL). League participants are charged a fee.

How much can you charge customers?

Range fees can vary between $10 and $20 per person for “open range” throwing, up to $30 to $50 per person for private events. Some ranges charge per hour, while others set a flat-fee for a day’s worth of throwing or for a specific number of hours.

How much profit can an axe-throwing party business make?

Earning potential varies based on size. A small business can bring in up to $100,000 in its first year, with good marketing and strong a community presence. As your company grows, that revenue could swell to between $500,000 and $1 million per year.

How can you make your business more profitable?

Adding profit to your axe throwing range is a matter of decreasing costs and adding revenue streams. Some businesses choose to add food preparation services, a bar, or a cigar bar or smoking room, and other related activities.

Day-to-Day and Growth

What happens during a typical day at an axe-throwing party business?

Day-to-day activities of this business include setting up and breaking down the range, making sure all customers understand basic safety procedures before axe-throwing begins, and managing customer expectations. Business owners are usually involved with major venue planning and corporate decisions about whether the company will manage a mobile range or just a local one.

Companies also usually make customers sign a liability waiver before they participate.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful axe-throwing party business?

Obviously it helps to know how to throw an axe. Other than that, business owners need to have a good business sense and deep understanding of the gaming and entertainment industries.

What is the growth potential for an axe-throwing party business?

This business can be run as a small local range or as a franchise. Small ranges usually operate as sole proprietors or LLCs. Minimum staff varies between 1 and 5 people. Larger axe-throwing ranges can employ 10 to 20 people or more and can include both local and mobile ranges for parties and events.

What are some insider tips for jump starting an axe-throwing party business?

Since this is still a budding industry, jump starting your business is usually as easy as getting the word out in your local community. Offer a “bring your own beer” (BYOB) incentive and host a grand opening to celebrate. Invite all your friends, family, local business owners, and members of the community.

How and when to build a team

For safety reasons, you should have 1 dedicated employee for every 2 customers who are throwing. At minimum, this means a small range could have anywhere between 3 and 5 full-time employees. Larger ranges may employ 5 to 10 or more full-time employees.

Part 2 - Is an Axe-Throwing Party business the right fit for you?

Part 3 - Action plan to launch your Axe-Throwing Party business in 90 days