Axe throwing bar off to good start in Halifax

Business is off to a good start at the Timber Lounge in Halifax where axe throwing is the main attraction. The bar on Agricola Street opened for business last month.

Just hitting the target at the end of one of the four throwing lanes is a major accomplishment for players who are new to the game.

"It's an adrenaline rush. I didn't quite know what to expect," said Carrie Todd, who was trying it for the first time.

"It was a lot more fun than what I expected."

Learn from a pro

Razor sharp axes are used and players are given a quick lesson from a coach on how to throw them.

That coach is also responsible for keeping an eye on the players to make sure they are playing safely and not drinking too much alcohol.

"There are a ton of safety measures in place, and before you even step into the cage, you're given a complete run down of all the rules," said Lucianna Plaxton, head axe throwing coach at Timber Lounge.

"No one throws axes when they're too intoxicated. We are very strict about that." 

'Kick axe time'

Plaxton, a former competitive swimmer, got the axe throwing bug when she lived in Toronto. Now the idea is taking off in Halifax.

"Everyone has an awesome time — I guess you could say a kick axe time," said Plaxton.

"It's really easy to do, and people are surprised at that, and they really enjoy the game aspect of it where they're competing against their friends."

Business is brisk

It costs $25 to $35 for a 90-minute, two-lane session.

"The group bookings have been coming in steady and usually on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, we're just packed," said Marc Chisholm, co-owner of Timber Lounge.

"Typically groups range from eight to 14 people and we've had a few bachelor parties come through."

There's a league for that

Wednesday nights also are busy. Twenty-five players have registered to take part in the axe throwing league.

"That's becoming a great form of socialization," said Plaxton.

"People who didn't know each other previously are now becoming friends and going out with each other outside of the axe lounge."

Made in Nova Scotia

All of the furniture in the bar comes from logs milled in Barrington, N.S., by one of the lounge co-owners, Darren Hudson.

The part-time professional lumberjack is competing in Illinois this weekend.