I like to write articles that I wish existed when I first tried a new sport. Most of the time writers focus only on what the top athletes are doing and don't spend enough time on how to get started. A few weeks ago I wrote an article on completing my first season of Axe throwing. The next step is to review a new Axe that is making its way onto the scene - The Bullmag A365.
My name is Alex Hutchinson, I'm an amateur hatchet thrower and longtime adventure writer. My home base is Longhouse Axe in Plymouth, Massachusetts. I compete in the World Axe Throwing League. At the time of this review I have already participated in a Hatchet League, a Marathon and a Tier 3 Tournament. The point is, I've gotten in a good 10,000 throws and can feel the difference between various Axes.
The Axes I have worked with include The Killshot, The Ace of Spades, The Butcher, The Corporal and The Commander. I started off by using the WATL Killshot on an outdoor target then I proceeded to the Ace of Spades. Finally I ended up on the Commander as my competition Axe. However, as I progressed as a thrower it became obvious that I would need something more professional.
The Bullmag A365 is a genius creation in that it was engineered specifically for precision Axe throwing. In other words each part of the Axe was designed with the balance and toughness needed for countless throws. The blade is a unique stainless steel known as "BullSteel" that they developed for strength and longevity. The handle is made of aerospace grade carbon fiber. They have so much faith in this product that they offer a lifetime warranty.
For throwers it is important to note that the Bullmag A365 is WATL legal as it fits the technical specs for competitive use. Those stats and more technical details are all available on the Bullmag website.
First Impressions
Pros: This is a beautiful Axe. The carbon fiber handle has a wood grain look to it in dark gray. The blade can be purchased in either stone wash or satin finish. There are sticker skins in a variety of colors that you can buy to make the Axe uniquely your own. You can even purchase one of their leather sleeves to sheath the Axe head.
Cons: The cost is high. The A365 sells for $256. plus shipping which came out to $273. Even the MO2 sleeves cost $69. but you can get them engraved. Shipping was kind of an issue as well. You will get one or two confirmation e-mails but the tracking number for USPS Ground didn't appear until four days after the expected delivery date. Ultimately it took almost 3 weeks to arrive.
Fresh out of the box the Bullmag A365 is impressive but it is also different. I had to adjust to the rectangular carbon fiber handle as opposed to the wooden oval of the Commander. I had to adjust to the length as it is a full 19 inches long. The narrow blade allowed for easy penetration into a spruce target that is pretty beat up.
I knew that I would have to change my throw a little but they were easy changes. My usual practice was to see how many throws it takes to hit 12 targets of various sizes and placement. My best score is 27. On the first try with the Bullmag I matched my best score. After a few more tweaks I was able to line up with a target 6 times in a row on 5 occasions.
Important notes: The instruction manual cautions that this Axe is to be used ONLY for throwing. Any other usage that causes damage will probably not be covered by the warranty. Considering the cost of the item, it should only be purchased by experienced throwers.
The full 19 inch length would probably be cumbersome for most people. It can be shortened. Cutting Carbon fiber is a bit trickier than cutting wood so make sure you know what you are doing. Bullmag has a video about that process on their Youtube page.
I will be posting my competition experiences with the Bullmag A365. Feel free to check back to this story for updates or just follow me on Facebook.
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