Learn to Throw an Axe in Kansas City

Taking the outdoors to the West Bottoms, two entrepreneurs have brought urban axe throwing to Kansas City. Blade & Timber founders Matt Baysinger and Ryan Henrich got their start in the escape room business with Breakout KC. With their newest venture, the duo hopes to provide another opportunity for people, ages 10 and up, to socialize through a unique activity. Opened in 2017, Blade & Timber is quickly gaining traction, and Ryan’s mother seems to be the number one fan. One Saturday, Ryan went to check in at the facility and found his mom and all her friends throwing axes in a lane. “She’s trying not to be biased. She’s trying to hide it from me,” Ryan says. “She doesn’t want me to think she’s just going there because I’m her son.” Although axe throwing may sound dangerous, Blade & Timber’s professional, certified axe-throwing coaches ensure newcomers are properly prepared. On the first visit, coaches give throwers an initial lesson and continue to monitor them throughout the entire experience, o•ffering guidance when needed. The goal is for participants to learn how to “stick it” before they leave. “We don’t just have them come in, hand them an axe, and say ‘have at it,’—” says Jessie Poole, Blade & Timber’s communication director. “We talk through all our safety procedures, and we talk through proper technique.” Patrons can bring in their own food and drink. Close-toe shoes are required for axe throwing, and Blade & Timber encourages everyone to flaunt their best flannel to get in the spirit of the sport. For more information, visit BladeAndTimber.com.