In this blog, we sat down with Tom to talk about his journey, his proudest moments, and what keeps him excited to coach new throwers every day at Epic Axe Throwing.
From Roofing to the Bullseye 🎯
Tom’s introduction to axe throwing was almost by accident. At a local Scottish festival in 2017, his girlfriend suggested he try out axe throwing after buying a tomahawk. At first, he wasn’t interested but after a couple of throws, he hit two bullseyes out of three. He entered the competition later that day and, out of a field of about 70 competitors, walked away with first place.
What started as a fun hobby in the backyard soon became something more serious. Tom wasn’t satisfied with his roofing job, and when he heard about Epic Axe Throwing opening in Orlando, he jumped at the chance to turn his passion into a career. He’s been part of the Epic family ever since.
Competing at the Highest Level 🪓
Tom began competing in axe throwing leagues in 2018 and quickly became a dominant force. By 2019, he had turned fully competitive, winning around 20 leagues in both hatchet (up to 19”) and big axe (23”+) events.
His proudest achievements include qualifying for six consecutive World Axe Throwing Championships, competing in both hatchet and big axe divisions. Even more impressive? Tom has thrown multiple perfect games 8 bullseyes and 2 kill-shots with hatchets, and 4 bullseyes with 1 kill-shot using big axe.
In the Official Big Axe Season 3 (2025) of the World Axe Throwing League, Tom reached an impressive #17 ranking worldwide further proof of his skill at the highest level of competition.
When asked about his proudest wins, Tom says, “Anytime I can win a league is special. At first I dominated easily, but now the competition has grown stronger. That makes every win mean even more.”
Coaching at Epic Axe Throwing
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“Had a great time! Tom was an amazing coach. We actually hit the bullseye! Awesome girls night for this competitive bunch. Thanks for the drinks Dan! I would definitely recommend this for date night or even just a night out with friends. Will definitely be coming back!”
– Zacha Garcia, Google Review
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“Had an awesome time at Epic Axe Throwing Place! The staff Tom was super friendly and made sure we felt safe and confident before we even picked up an axe. They gave a great demo and stayed nearby to help with technique and cheer us on. The place had a great vibe and clean. It’s surprisingly satisfying to play! Definitely a unique, fun experience and a great way to blow off some steam. I’ll be coming back for sure — maybe even for a group event or date night. Highly recommend!”
– Stefy U, Google Review
While Tom loves competing, one of his favorite parts of the sport is coaching first-timers at Epic Axe Throwing in Orlando.
“What I enjoy most is when someone says they’ll be happy just making the axe stick once. I know they’ll get more than that, usually even a bullseye!” Tom says with a smile.
He’s quick to point out that axe throwing isn’t the same as throwing a baseball or football. “If you’ve never been shown how to throw an axe, you don’t know how,” he explains. His coaching style focuses on safety and fundamentals, teaching guests the two approved throws: single rotation, one-handed over the shoulder, and two-handed down the middle.
One of his more memorable guests was former WWE wrestler Mojo Rawley, who regularly came in to challenge him. “He’d always say, ‘Today’s the day I’m going to beat you, brotha!’ I’d tell him, ‘You’ve got as much chance beating me as I have pinning you!’” Tom laughs.
Competing with Confidence
For Tom, mental focus is everything. He doesn’t have any complicated pre-throw rituals. Instead, he tells himself one simple phrase before every throw:
“This is the only throw that matters.”
That mindset has carried him through tough competitions. But he admits the biggest challenge in axe throwing today is staying competitive as the sport grows. “When I started, no one in Orlando was close to my level. Now, people like Dylan Teets the current World Champion — used to compete in our local leagues. The competition just keeps getting stronger.”
Tom’s advice for beginners? “When you start, you’re going to lose a lot. Don’t let wins and losses define your enjoyment. Listen to advice even small changes can make a huge difference.”
Outside the Lanes: Tom’s Fun Side 🤘
When he’s not throwing, Tom’s personality is just as bold as his game:
- Celebrity Challenge: Jason Momoa, who’s also an axe throwing enthusiast.
- Walk-up song: “Tom Sawyer” by Rush.
- Favorite post-throw drink: A simple whiskey and Pepsi.
- Hype music: Classic rock before the 1990s.
- Perfect bullseye feeling in one word: Satisfaction.
Come Throw with Tom at Epic Axe Throwing
Visiting Orlando or planning a corporate team building event? Plan a private party, or just stop by for a night out with friends and get tips from one of the best. Book your lane and experience the thrill of your first bullseye with Tom Knapp and our Epic coaches.
Whether you’re visiting Orlando for the first time or planning a corporate team building event, Tom and the rest of our amazing coaches are ready to teach you how to throw like a pro.
Join a league, plan a private party, or just stop by for a night out with friends and maybe even get a few tips from one of the best axe throwers in the world.
👉 Book your lane today at Epic Axe Throwing and experience the thrill of hitting your first bullseye with guidance from Tom Knapp himself.