Range Leader Basics
Safe, Confident and Effective Range Management
Running a tomahawk or knife throwing activity safely requires more than knowing how to throw. A Range Leader is responsible for creating a controlled environment where everyone understands the rules, follows the correct procedures and can take part safely.
With two targets, the Range Leader and Instructor can be the same person, managing the range and providing instruction.
With more than two targets, it is recommended to have a dedicated Range Leader/Master overseeing the whole range, with one Instructor for every three targets. This ensures that each group of participants receives appropriate supervision and instruction while the Range Leader maintains overall control of the range.
This section introduces the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to supervise a throwing range within a Scouting environment.
Before the Activity
A good range starts with good preparation.
Before allowing anyone onto the range, the Range Leader should walk through the entire area and check for potential hazards. This should include the throwing line, target area, safety zone and surrounding area.
Check that:
- Targets are secure and suitable for the activity.
- Target stands are stable and undamaged.
- Throwing lines are clearly identified.
- Safety boundaries are clearly marked.
- There is no one behind or beside the targets where they could be struck by a missed throw or deflection.
- The ground is suitable and free from obvious trip hazards.
- Spectators are positioned in a safe location.
- All equipment is in good condition.
- The range remains under the control of the Range Leader.
Never assume that a range is safe simply because it was safe at the last session. Conditions can change, so check it every time.
Range Briefing
Before the first throw, everyone should receive a clear safety briefing.
Participants should understand:
One person throws on each target — everyone else watches from the safe area.
The throwing line must be treated as a controlled boundary. Nobody should cross it to retrieve equipment, inspect a target or collect a tomahawk or knife until the Range Leader has given permission.
The Instructor demonstrates the correct stance, grip and throwing technique, explaining each step clearly before participants attempt the throw themselves including safe carry, colect from target first, remove standing sligtly to the side not facing the target, Safe Carry.
Explain the Range Commands (see them below) before starting so that participants know exactly what each command means.
Range Commands
“Take a Tomahawk”
Everyone should be in their designated safe position. The Range Leader must check that the range is clear and that the correct throwing distance has been established before giving the command to proceed.
“Check Your Stance”
Participants check that they are standing in the correct stance, as demonstrated and explained during the safety briefing.
“Check Your Grip”
Participance check the grip and and a chance for the instructor to make any changes.
“Point at the Tatget and Throw when Reddy”
Lift the Tomahawk or Angel and point to the target and throw with the techiques, this will help on the next round as we can look at the throw and on the next we can offer techniques changes to improve if needed.
“Safe to Collect, Safe Carry”
Everyone has finished and the range is clear, look and be sure before giving this comand, wathch for safe carry and make sure they take from the target first the any on the floor.
Use simple, consistent commands throughout the session.
Controlling the Range
The Range Leader must always know who is throwing, who is waiting and who is downrange.
Only start a throwing round when the range is completely clear.
If there is any doubt:
STOP THE ACTIVITY.
It is always better to pause and check than to continue when something is unclear.
Participants should never be allowed to throw while another person is collecting equipment, standing near a target or entering the target area.
Supervising Participants
The Range Leader should remain in a position where the whole range can be observed.
Particular attention should be given to:
- New participants.
- Young or inexperienced throwers.
- Anyone who is struggling with the technique.
- Participants becoming distracted or overconfident.
- People approaching the throwing line or target area without permission.
The Range Leader should encourage good technique rather than simply concentrating on whether a throw hits the target.
Accuracy comes from controlled technique, not from throwing harder.
When Things Go Wrong
Do not allow participants to chase or retrieve equipment until the Range Leader has confirmed that it is safe to do so.
If someone enters the range unexpectedly:
STOP THROWING IMMEDIATELY.
The Range Leader should remain calm, give a clear command and regain control of the range before continuing.
Emergency Procedures
Before starting, the Range Leader should know:
- Where the first-aid kit is located.
- Who is responsible for first aid.
- How to raise the alarm.
- Where the emergency access point is.
- The location of the nearest telephone or means of communication.
- What to do in the event of an injury.
- The site's emergency procedures.
The appropriate activity risk assessment and local Scouting procedures must always be followed.
The Range Leader's Golden Rules
STOP – CHECK – CONTROL – THROW
STOP
Stop the activity if anything is unclear or unsafe.
CHECK
Check the range, equipment and people.
CONTROL
Make sure everyone understands the commands and remains in the correct area.
THROW
Only allow throwing when the Range Leader is satisfied that the range is safe.
Tomahawk Throwing Basics FAQs
What are the basic skills needed to throw a tomahawk?
The basic skills include a safe stance, correct grip, controlled throwing motion, consistent release and good follow-through. Beginners should learn these fundamentals before attempting more advanced techniques.
How should I stand when throwing a tomahawk?
Stand in the instructed throwing position with your feet stable and your body facing the target. Your stance should allow you to remain balanced throughout the throwing movement.
How should I hold a tomahawk?
Hold the tomahawk firmly but without excessive tension. The grip should allow the tomahawk to move naturally through the throwing action and release cleanly by holding at the base. We call this the hammer grip.
Which part of the tomahawk should I focus on?
Beginners should concentrate on the specific point they are trying to hit rather than simply looking at the whole target. Good visual focus can help develop consistency and accuracy.
How do I start learning to throw a tomahawk?
Start with a qualified or experienced instructor who can demonstrate the correct stance, grip and throwing movement. Practise each part of the technique slowly before attempting to increase distance or speed.
How far away should a beginner stand from the target?
The instructor should establish a suitable throwing distance based on the equipment, target and technique being taught. Beginners should not change their throwing distance without instruction.
Should I throw a tomahawk as hard as possible?
No. Power is not the most important part of learning to throw accurately. A controlled and repeatable throwing action is more useful than simply throwing with maximum force.
How do I know when to release the tomahawk?
The release point is part of the throwing technique and should be demonstrated by the instructor. Beginners should concentrate on repeating the same controlled movement rather than trying to force the tomahawk into the target.
Why does my tomahawk hit the target at the wrong angle?
The angle can be affected by the throwing distance, release point, rotation and consistency of the throwing action. An instructor can help identify which part of the technique needs adjusting.
Why does my tomahawk sometimes bounce out of the target?
A tomahawk may fail to stick if it reaches the target at an unsuitable angle, hits a poor area of the target or the target material is unsuitable. Always investigate the cause rather than simply throwing harder.
Should I change my throwing distance if the tomahawk does not stick?
Only under the direction of the instructor. Throwing distance affects the rotation and angle of the tomahawk, so changes should be made in a controlled way.
Is it better to throw with one hand or two?
- Natural Rotation: Tomahawks are lightweight, usually weighing around 1 to 1.5 pounds. A single-handed grip allows the axe to glide out of your hand and rotate naturally over long distances.
- Consistent Release: Using one hand keeps your arm movement aligned with your shoulder, creating a repeatable, straight release point. Two hands often cause uneven pushing, making the blade wobble in the air.
- Safety Regulations: Official youth organization rules explicitly state no double-handed throwing. It prevents over-muscling the throw, which leads to dangerous bounces and rebounds off the target.
How can I improve my accuracy?
Focus on consistency. Use the same stance, grip, throwing movement and release each time. Practising controlled throws is generally more useful than simply throwing repeatedly without analysing the result.
How often should a beginner practise?
Short, focused practice sessions are preferable to becoming tired and allowing technique to deteriorate. Always follow the instructor's guidance and stop if concentration or control begins to decline.
Can I practise tomahawk throwing on my own?
Tomahawk throwing should only take place in a properly prepared and controlled throwing area with appropriate supervision and safety arrangements. Beginners should learn the fundamentals under suitable instruction.
What should I wear when learning to throw?
Wear suitable outdoor clothing and secure footwear (no open toes) that allows you to maintain a stable stance. Avoid loose items that could interfere with the throwing movement.
What should I check before throwing?
Check that the tomahawk is in good condition, the head is secure, the handle is sound and the throwing area is clear. Always follow the range briefing before starting.
What is the most important thing for a beginner to learn?
Consistency and safety come first. Learn the correct technique, listen to your instructor and develop your throwing skills gradually rather than concentrating solely on hitting the target.
When should I move on to more advanced techniques?
Move on only when you can consistently demonstrate the basic technique and your instructor considers you ready. Advanced techniques should be introduced progressively and within the appropriate safety procedures, good to join a club.
Remember
A good Range Leader does not just watch the throwing.
They control the whole environment.
Clear instructions, consistent commands, good supervision and careful preparation are the foundations of a safe and enjoyable throwing activity for Scouts and Leaders.
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