Dalton EastonIf you’re stepping into the world of axe throwing, chances are you’ve quickly realized that keeping your axes organized isn’t just about looking neat—it’s a key part of staying safe, protecting your gear, and making your practice more efficient. I’ve spent years exploring the ins and outs of axe throwing, from the right grip to the best practice routines, and one thing becomes clear: proper storage can make or break your axe throwing experience. In this guide, I’m going to walk you through 9 practical axe throwing storage ideas for beginners, so you can keep your collection safe, accessible, and ready for action.
Introduction: Why Proper Axe Storage Matters
Imagine walking into your practice area and tripping over a stray axe, or worse, picking up one that’s gotten nicked, rusted, or warped from poor storage. Yikes! Storing axes properly isn’t just about neatness—it protects your axe throwing gear and ensures safety for everyone around. Plus, having a consistent spot for each axe helps you track your practice progress and keeps your equipment ready for precise throws.
Understanding Your Axe Collection
Before we jump into storage solutions, it’s important to understand what you’re storing. Not all axes are the same, and the way you store a small hatchet differs from how you’d handle a heavy throwing axe.
Types of Axes You Might Have
Beginner throwers often start with a few key types:
- Standard throwing axes – Lightweight, balanced for rotation.
- Hatchets – Shorter handles, great for close-range practice.
- Specialty competition axes – Often heavier and finely balanced, requiring extra care.
Knowing which axes you own helps you decide whether they need wall mounts, protective cases, or specialized holders. For more guidance on choosing the right axes, you can check out this axe selection guide.
Axe Components That Need Special Care
Your axe isn’t just a block of wood with a blade. It has:
- Handles – Wooden handles can warp or crack if exposed to moisture.
- Heads/Blades – Steel heads can rust without proper protection.
- Edges – Sharp edges need to be covered or separated to avoid accidents.
Understanding these components ensures your storage method protects the entire tool, not just the handle or the blade.
Storage Idea 1: Wall-Mounted Racks
Wall-mounted racks are a classic solution for keeping axes visible and accessible. They’re perfect for homes, garages, or even dedicated axe throwing rooms.
Materials and DIY Options
You can buy pre-made racks, but building your own is surprisingly simple. Using sturdy wooden planks, hooks, or brackets, you can create a customized wall rack that holds axes safely while displaying your collection. This DIY approach is great if you want a setup tailored to your practice habits.
Safety Considerations
When mounting your rack, make sure it’s anchored into studs or strong surfaces. An unstable rack can lead to accidents, especially if someone bumps into it during practice. Check out axe throwing safety tips for more details on creating a safe environment.
Storage Idea 2: Free-Standing Axe Holders
If wall space is limited, free-standing holders are a flexible alternative.
Pros and Cons
These holders can be moved around and adjusted to fit different axes. They’re excellent for small apartments or shared practice spaces. The downside? They can take up floor space and may tip if not properly weighted.
Space-Saving Tips
Consider narrow vertical designs or holders that accommodate multiple axes in one row. This way, even a compact room can store your gear neatly. You might find inspiration from this beginner gear setup guide.
Storage Idea 3: Pegboards for Axes
Pegboards aren’t just for tools—they can be fantastic for organizing axes.
Organizing Multiple Tools
Pegboards allow you to hang multiple axes at different heights, keeping the sharp edges away from reach but still visible for easy selection. Using labeled hooks can help beginners quickly grab the right axe for practice.
Accessibility Tips
Place the pegboard at a comfortable height, so you don’t have to stretch or bend awkwardly. Combine it with small shelves for axe throwing accessories like gloves or wax, enhancing your practice setup.
Storage Idea 4: Custom Wooden Cabinets
If you want your collection both safe and elegant, a custom cabinet might be the way to go.
Design Ideas for Beginners
Even a simple wooden cabinet with adjustable shelves and slots for each axe can work wonders. Beginners can use soft foam or rubber-lined slots to prevent scratches and dings.
Protection from Moisture and Dust
A cabinet keeps your axes protected from dust, humidity, and accidental knocks. For wooden-handled axes, this is particularly important. You can learn more about axe maintenance to prolong your gear’s lifespan.
Storage Idea 5: Toolboxes and Cases
For beginners who like to keep things portable, toolboxes and cases are a lifesaver.
Portable Storage Options
A sturdy toolbox can keep your axes safe from dust, moisture, and curious hands. Some cases come with foam inserts to cradle each axe individually, which is perfect for those who travel to different practice venues. If you’re curious about maximizing your practice space, check out this equipment setup guide.
Choosing the Right Size and Material
When picking a toolbox or case, size matters. Too small and your axes won’t fit; too large and you’re carrying unnecessary weight. Look for impact-resistant materials, like heavy-duty plastic or metal, that can handle knocks without bending or cracking. Soft interior padding can protect delicate axe heads and edges.
Storage Idea 6: Magnetic Strips and Bars
Magnetic strips aren’t just for knives—they work brilliantly for axes too.
Installation Tips
Attach a heavy-duty magnetic bar to a wall or inside a cabinet door. Ensure it’s rated to hold the weight of your axes securely. Place axes so that the blade or handle doesn’t interfere with the magnet’s hold, and avoid magnetic bars that are too close to other metal objects.
Safety and Reach Considerations
Keep the strips at a height that prevents accidental contact, especially if children or pets are around. For precision, consider pairing magnetic storage with a pegboard or rack setup to create zones for different axe types. This combination keeps everything accessible yet safe.
Storage Idea 7: Hanging Straps and Hooks
Sometimes the best solution is overhead. Hanging straps and hooks make great use of unused vertical space.
Using Garage or Workshop Ceilings
Install ceiling-mounted hooks or straps in your garage, basement, or workshop. Axes hang vertically, freeing floor space while keeping the blades clear of accidental contact. It’s a practical option for beginners with limited wall space.
Securing Heavy Axes Safely
Use strong straps rated for the weight of your axes. Regularly check the hardware for wear and tear, because a falling axe is more than just a scare—it can damage floors, walls, and fingers. You can read more about axe safety rules for beginners to ensure your setup stays secure.
Storage Idea 8: Outdoor Storage Solutions
If your practice area includes an outdoor space, storage becomes a little trickier but still manageable.
Weatherproof Options
Outdoor axes should be stored in sheds, waterproof cabinets, or weatherproof boxes. Exposure to rain, sun, and humidity can warp handles and rust blades. For guidance on outdoor setups that keep your axes in top condition, check axe storage tips.
Combining Storage and Display
Outdoor storage can double as display. Custom racks or cabinets can highlight your axes while keeping them protected from the elements. This is great for hobbyists who enjoy showing off their collection during summer backyard practice sessions.
Storage Idea 9: Drawer Inserts and Dividers
If you’re limited on wall space, consider keeping your axes in drawers—but organized.
Protecting Blades and Handles
Invest in drawer dividers or foam inserts to prevent metal-on-metal contact. A sharp axe edge sliding across another blade is an accident waiting to happen, and it can dull your axes unnecessarily. Use labeled compartments to keep each axe in its own “home.”
Efficient Use of Small Spaces
This method works exceptionally well in small apartments or multipurpose rooms. Combine with small cabinets or a toolbox to maximize space while keeping axes safe and accessible.
Maintenance Tips for Stored Axes
Storage isn’t just about placement—it’s also about care.
- Oiling blades – A thin layer of oil prevents rust.
- Checking handles – Ensure wood or composite handles haven’t cracked or warped.
- Regular cleaning – Wipe off sweat, dirt, and moisture after each session.
For deeper insight, here’s a guide on axe care and maintenance.
Common Mistakes Beginners Make
Even experienced throwers have storage slip-ups. Watch out for these beginner traps:
- Stacking axes carelessly – Can cause nicks and safety hazards.
- Ignoring humidity – Moisture warps handles and rusts blades.
- Improper height placement – Axes at knee or eye level can be dangerous.
- Using weak racks or hooks – Always check weight capacity.
- Neglecting labels – Beginners often confuse axes when in a multi-tool setup.
Avoid these errors, and you’ll enjoy both safe and efficient practice sessions.
Conclusion
Proper axe storage is more than just a matter of organization—it’s about safety, longevity, and convenience. From wall-mounted racks to clever drawer inserts, the right storage solution protects your blades, prevents accidents, and keeps your practice space efficient. As a beginner, experimenting with different storage methods will help you discover what works best for your setup, space, and collection.
Remember: your axes are investments in your hobby and skill development. Treating them well with adequate storage, regular maintenance, and careful handling ensures that every throw is as precise and satisfying as the first. Whether you prefer a sleek wall display, a portable toolbox, or a weatherproof outdoor shed, the key is consistency. Keep your axes stored thoughtfully, and your throwing sessions will become smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. For more inspiration on creating a full axe throwing setup, check out this complete beginner guide.
FAQs
1. What is the safest way for beginners to store axes at home?
The safest methods usually involve wall-mounted racks, magnetic bars, or padded cabinets. Keeping axes off the floor and out of reach of children prevents accidents while protecting the blades.
2. Can I store axes outdoors safely?
Yes, but they must be in a weatherproof box or shed. Avoid leaving axes exposed to rain or direct sunlight, as moisture can warp handles and rust the blades. Learn more about outdoor storage solutions.
3. How do I prevent wooden handles from cracking during storage?
Keep axes in a cool, dry area, and occasionally apply a light coat of linseed or mineral oil to maintain handle integrity. Avoid leaning axes against walls, as this can stress the wood.
4. Are magnetic strips strong enough for heavy throwing axes?
Yes, if rated for the proper weight. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure axes are positioned so they won’t slide or fall. Combining magnetic strips with a pegboard is a smart way to organize multiple axes.
5. How often should I check stored axes?
At least once a month, inspect handles, blades, and mounts. Wipe off dust, oil the metal, and adjust hooks or straps as necessary. This ensures your axes remain safe and ready for your next practice.
6. Can I mix different types of axes in one storage solution?
Yes, but it’s best to keep larger, heavier axes separate from smaller ones to avoid damage and improve accessibility. Consider labeled compartments or dividers for organization.
7. Is it worth investing in custom storage as a beginner?
Absolutely. Even beginner-friendly solutions like simple wall racks or foam-lined drawers can protect your gear and make practice more enjoyable. Investing in thoughtful storage now saves you headaches and costs in the future.