Blade hits wood with a satisfying thunk, and my arms raised spontaneously in celebration. I've just completed my first successful ax throw and discovered how good it feels to chuck a crude weapon at a hunk of pine. The Vikings were onto something.
While Las Vegas is full of shooting ranges where you can pull the trigger of a bullet-spitting AK-47 or M4 machine gun, Axe Monkeys takes a decidedly lower-tech approach.
At the attraction, which celebrated its grand opening March 8 east of the Strip, it's just you, a 1.5-pound ax and a pine bull's-eye beckoning your best shot at the end of a simple lane separated by a chain link fence. Step up, raise your ax and let 'er rip.
Anyone over age 7 can throw, the learning curve is delightfully short and the vibe is friendly and relaxed: no camo, no aggressive soundtrack, no one trying to act like a badass while engaging in a sport whose only requirements are closed-toe shoes and maybe some plaid. There's even a bull's-eye bell to ring for your first center hit.
Originally opened in Canada, the Vegas location is Axe Monkeys' second, and the concept seems built for the Las Vegas market with its steady stream of corporate groups and bachelor parties.
A shuttle bus offers complimentary rides to and from the Strip, party rooms welcome groups and there are plenty of optional upgrades to add to your hour of throwing ($25), such as custom-printed targets or smash boxes with prizes inside.
Those who want to ramp up the difficulty level can select special weapons such as knives, ninja stars and steel throwing cards ($10) that require a bit more aim and finesse, as well as their own lanes with fine mesh walls.
The technique is tougher to master, but when knife hits pine the satisfaction is exactly the same. And when the zombie apocalypse arrives, you'll be ready.
Visit www.axemonkeys.com.