How to Hit a Killshot: Five Things to Practice Before You Call It

The Killshot is the small blue target in the corners of a standard WATL hatchet target. It’s tempting to call one early, but the best way to improve is to make your regular throw repeatable first.

Start with the same stance and distance each time. Keep your feet behind the line, stand comfortably, and use the same setup before each throw. Small changes in position can change where the axe lands, so avoid moving around just to chase a miss.

Pick a clear aiming point and keep your eyes on it through the motion. Use a smooth, controlled throw instead of trying to muscle the axe at the board. After release, notice whether the axe landed high, low, left, or right, then make one small adjustment on the next throw. Changing several things at once makes it harder to learn what worked.

Practice the center and surrounding scoring rings before focusing on the Killshot. A consistent stick is more useful than a hard throw, and a coach can help you spot whether your release or distance needs a small correction. At Fort Worth Axe Factory, ask an Axepert for a tip between turns.

Know the current rules before you compete. WATL’s 2026 hatchet rules require you to call a Killshot before throwing; the inner Killshot scores 8 and the outer ring scores 7. The rules allow two Killshot calls in a game, with an extra call for a drop in most throws. Rules can vary by discipline, so check the current rulebook for your division.

The simple goal: build a throw you can repeat, then spend your Killshot calls when you’re ready. Current WATL rules: https://worldaxethrowingleague.com/axe-throwing-rules/