EXPERIENCE MODERN AXE THROWING EXPERIENCE IN MANHATTAN LIVE AXE: EAT, DRINK THROW

By Bennett Marcus

The Draw

Part of the experience is in doing something unique. “You get excited. You see people being tense, and then half an hour later, screaming and yelling and rooting for their friends, getting very competitive,” Segal explains. As it’s a fairly new activity, there are not many people who are really good at it, so everyone is competing at the same level, and you don’t feel intimidated. “Unlike, say, bowling, where there are people who have been playing since they were young.” says Segal.

Inner Viking

Throwing an axe is a vigorous activity, you’re moving your body, using energy. The cage captains offer encouragement and tips on stance and accuracy. Opened during the pandemic, Live Axe faced some delays due to Covid-related restrictions, but has now been steadily operating since December, with social-distancing and other protocols in place. Axe-throwing is not required, and in fact, a lot of well-dressed folks come by after dinner for drinks. The bar recommends that people wear flat shoes, but they do have some on-hand for those in heels or sandals who decide spur of the moment to embrace their inner Viking.

Popular With All Ages

The proprietors have been amazed at the variety of people Live Axe has attracted. A few months ago, a woman held a 35th birthday party there with over 45 guests. Not long after, the birthday girl’s mother celebrated her 76th at the venue with a bunch of female friends, all of similar age. “They had so much fun, these mature ladies,” Segal says. “And they said next time they’re bringing their husbands.”

Corporate Events

Segal has been surprised at how popular the place has proven for corporate events. “ People are branching out, and it’s fun for everybody,” he says. With different sections on different levels, parties can have their own space, or even their own floor.