Why People Throw Sharp Objects
Knife throwing and star throwing are growing hobbies with a simple appeal: they are fun, physical, and satisfying in a way that screen-based entertainment cannot match. There is something deeply rewarding about sticking a blade into a target from 10 or 15 feet away.
It is also more accessible than most people think. You do not need a gym membership, expensive equipment, or years of practice to start hitting targets consistently. A set of throwing knives, a wooden target, and 20 minutes of practice is all it takes to get started.
Throwing Knives vs. Throwing Stars
Throwing knives are balanced, weighted blades designed to rotate predictably in flight. They typically range from 6 to 12 inches and weigh 6 to 12 ounces. Heavier knives are easier for beginners because they rotate more slowly and forgive distance errors.
Throwing stars (shuriken) are flat, multi-pointed projectiles that do not rotate end-over-end like knives. Instead, they spin on a flat plane. Their multiple points mean at least one will contact the target regardless of rotation — making them more forgiving than knives for new throwers.
Choosing Your First Throwing Knives
- Weight — Start heavy. 8 to 12 ounces per knife. Lighter knives are harder to control and require more precise distance management.
- Length — 9 to 12 inches for beginners. Longer knives rotate slower and are more predictable.
- Balance — Center-balanced knives are the most versatile. They can be thrown by the blade or the handle.
- No sharp edges on the handle — Purpose-built throwing knives have dull handles for safe grip during blade-first throws.
- Buy a set of 3 — You will throw three, walk to the target, pull them, walk back. Sets of three keep the rhythm going.
Setting Up a Target
A proper throwing target is essential for safety and stick rate:
- Softwood end-grain — A cross-section of a log (cottonwood, pine, or poplar) is the classic target. End grain accepts blades cleanly.
- Stacked plywood — Multiple layers of plywood standing on edge create a durable target face.
- Commercial targets — Compressed cardboard or foam targets designed specifically for throwing.
- Backstop — Place your target against a solid fence or wall. Missed throws need something to stop them safely.
Basic Throwing Technique
- Grip — Hold the knife by the blade (for a blade-heavy knife) or handle (for a handle-heavy knife) with a hammer grip. Do not squeeze — a relaxed grip produces a cleaner release.
- Stance — Stand facing the target. Dominant foot slightly back. Relaxed posture.
- Throw — Bring the knife back behind your ear, then throw forward in a smooth arc. Release when your arm is extended toward the target. Do not flick your wrist.
- Distance — Start at about 8 feet. At this distance, a standard throwing knife completes one full rotation before hitting the target. Adjust distance forward or back until you consistently stick.
Safety Rules
- Never throw toward people, animals, or property
- Always have a clear backstop behind your target
- Throw in a dedicated area where no one will walk into the throwing lane
- Inspect knives before each session for damage that could cause unpredictable flight
- Never try to catch a thrown knife
Browse our throwing knife collection for balanced, weighted sets designed for target throwing. Pair them with our martial arts and outdoor gear for a complete throwing setup.