My am-dram group are staging a production of Annie Get Your Gun. Hurrah! A musical set around a Wild West Circus. Prestige and adoration stick to me like magnetic flies when my circus skills background is revealed. The trouble I face now, however, is one of theme and propriety.

I reckon tomahawks are probably the way to go as far as juggling is concerned. I have seen tomahawks used as juggling props before, but I've never seen them available for sale as such. I could probably get hold of some on eBay or through specialist online retailers, but I'd really like some idea of weight/balance/heft/spin before I start buying axes online. With that in mind, does anyone have any recommendations? I'm based in the midlands, UK, if that has any bearing on things.

Cheers.


Rikk

From what I remember about juggling bladed objects, longer handled are better than shorter as the handles tend to whip round really fast.

Nigel

I am also waiting for a answer to this quwstion too. Isn't there any one who knows where to buy a Michael Davis quality juggling axe?

Years ago the Sikorsky Bros. of Baltimore sold juggling axes...but they are long gone. My suggestion is to go to your hardware store and find some axe/hatchet handles. Find a size or two that you think might work then take them to a metalworker who should be able to cut you axe heads out of metal.

You might require a little trial and error on the size of the axe head to create a balanced club...if this is important. If money is no object get the axe heads chromed and then have your metal worker grind the edge so it looks like it has been sharpened.

Your pal Lefty...(a tribute to Mr. Davis)

Kevin

Hawk handles are not the same as axe handles, they are strate and meant to be thrown. (but not caught) long handels are the way to go. (ie. no mouse hawks)
it is not that bad but the spin is more to the head so it will take some work.

I buy my axes from my local hardware store. They are very similar to these http://images.outdoorinteractive.net/mgen/509525_d.jpg

but mine are not camping ones. and have no hole in the handle.

no axes really that I know are actually designed and waited properly but, the axes I use I can do simple tricks like double spins, under the leg, continuous behind the back (one side only - 2 sided is near impossible)

The ones I have at the moment in the UK are SILVERLINE Hatchet (1.5lb)
http://www.silverlinetools.com

I prefer these short handled ones, as the longer the handle the faster and more deadly the flick.

Best way to practice for short handled axes is to juggle hammers with a sock tied around the dangerous bit first.

A friend of mine Pete Matthews juggles the bigger longer ones, so if you would like I can ask him the brand etc?

James

Might want to consider wrapping some of this around the handle.

http://www.chicagolandbicycle.com/bartape.htm

Your hands may thank you.
Anton SJ