First Impressions of Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe
The Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe aims to deliver a balanced and durable throwing experience at an affordable price. Marketed towards both beginners and experienced throwers, its stainless steel construction and included sheath promise convenient portability and lasting performance. I was intrigued by the in-handle bottle opener, a feature that could add a bit of fun to outdoor gatherings, but remained cautiously optimistic about its overall throwing capability.
Years of instructing tactical breaching and survival skills often leave me yearning for simpler tools and activities. The allure of axe throwing is a primal one, but I’ve seen many budget-friendly axes fail to live up to the hype. I needed an axe that could withstand repeated throws and beginner mistakes without sacrificing balance or accuracy.
Upon unboxing the Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe, the weight immediately struck me. It felt solid, but not excessively heavy, hinting at a reasonable balance point. The stainless steel finish gave it a clean look, and the three beveled edges appeared well-defined. The nylon sheath, while functional, felt somewhat basic compared to the axe itself.
Compared to my Council Tool Wood-Craft Pack Axe, a serious chopping tool, the Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe felt more like a toy at first glance, albeit a sturdy one. I also considered a similar-priced Cold Steel throwing axe, but the Smith & Wesson‘s in-handle bottle opener swayed my decision – sometimes, the little things matter. I picked the Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe for its potential as a fun, durable, and easily portable throwing axe suitable for recreational use.
My initial impression was cautiously positive. The weight and balance seemed promising, but the true test would be how it performed in the field. I was eager to see if it could stick consistently and withstand the inevitable missed throws that come with practice.
Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe to a friend’s property with a designated axe-throwing target area. This allowed me to test the axe safely and repeatedly without worrying about damaging property or injuring anyone. I tested it in dry conditions, with temperatures hovering around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, ideal for outdoor activities.
The axe proved surprisingly easy to use, even for a novice thrower. Its balanced weight distribution allowed for consistent throws, and the beveled edges helped it stick in the target with satisfying regularity. It took only a few throws to get a feel for the proper distance and rotation needed for accurate throws.
The only initial issue was the handle finish being a little slippery, especially after repeated throws and sweaty hands. This was easily remedied with a pair of gloves and wouldn’t be an issue for experienced throwers.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it at least twice a week, throwing it hundreds of times at both wooden targets and even some (unintentionally) harder surfaces. There are a few minor scratches on the blade, but no signs of bending, cracking, or chipping.
The stainless steel construction has proven its durability. The axe has withstood numerous impacts without any significant damage. The nylon sheath has also held up, although the stitching around the belt loop is showing some minor wear.
Cleaning and maintaining the axe is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use keeps it free from dirt and debris. Compared to other throwing axes I’ve used, the Smith & Wesson requires minimal maintenance. This surpasses my expectations for a budget-friendly option.
Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe
Specifications
The Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe, manufactured by Smith & Wesson, features a full tang stainless steel construction for enhanced durability. Its overall length is 20 inches, while the blade length measures 3.5 inches, and the handle stretches to 17.3 inches. The axe weighs in at 1.61 pounds, making it light enough for extended use without causing excessive fatigue.
The specifications contribute to the axe’s balanced feel and throwing accuracy. The stainless steel blade provides good edge retention and corrosion resistance. The handle’s length and weight allow for a comfortable grip and powerful throws.
Performance & Functionality
The Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe performs admirably as a throwing axe. Its balanced design and beveled edges consistently stick into the target. The axe is easy to throw and requires minimal effort to achieve a good rotation.
The axe’s primary strength lies in its ease of use and consistency. The bottle opener is a fun novelty, but the axe’s throwing ability is what truly matters. One potential improvement could be the handle’s grip, which can be slippery when wet, but overall it meets expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe has a simple yet effective design. The stainless steel construction gives it a clean and modern look. The handle’s ergonomics are generally good, but could be improved with a textured grip.
The axe feels balanced in hand and is comfortable to throw. The learning curve is minimal, making it accessible to beginners.
Durability & Maintenance
The Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe is built to last. The stainless steel construction is highly resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable use.
Maintaining the axe is straightforward. A quick cleaning after each use is all that’s needed. The stainless steel resists corrosion, minimizing the need for extensive maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe comes with a nylon sheath for storage and transportation. While there are no official customization options offered by Smith & Wesson, users could potentially modify the handle with aftermarket grips. The axe is compatible with universal axe sheaths if a more durable or aesthetically pleasing option is desired.
Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe
Pros
- Durable stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Balanced design makes it easy to throw and stick consistently.
- Affordable price makes it accessible to beginners and casual throwers.
- Included nylon sheath provides convenient storage and portability.
- In-handle bottle opener adds a fun and unique touch.
Cons
- The handle can be slippery, especially when wet.
- The nylon sheath is somewhat basic and may not be as durable as the axe itself.
Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe?
The Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe is perfect for casual axe throwers, backyard enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a fun and affordable outdoor activity. It’s also a great option for beginners who are just getting started with axe throwing. The axe’s ease of use and durable construction make it a suitable choice for recreational use.
This axe might not be ideal for professional throwers or those who demand the highest level of precision and performance. Those individuals would be better served by investing in a higher-end, competition-grade axe. A textured handle wrap would be a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe
The Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe offers a solid throwing experience at an exceptional value. Its durable construction, balanced design, and ease of use make it a great choice for beginners and casual throwers. While the handle could benefit from a better grip, the overall performance and fun factor outweigh this minor drawback.
The price is absolutely justified. For around $50, you get a durable and well-balanced throwing axe that will provide hours of entertainment.
I would personally recommend the Smith & Wesson Bullseye Large Throwing Axe to anyone looking for an affordable and enjoyable way to get into axe throwing. Grab one, head outdoors, and start sticking those throws!