CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. - After attending a stag party in Halifax earlier this year, two Islanders decided to bring the fun they experienced back to Charlottetown.
Ryan MacMillan and Ian MacDonald have gone into business together to open P.E.I.’s first axe throwing lounge.
Chuck Hatchets, located next to the Sports Page on Kent Street, is a place where beer and axes join forces.
“It was just kind of an idea we put together,” MacMillan told The Guardian. “We did it in Halifax at Timber Lounge. When we came back here, we just kept talking about how much fun it was.”
“There was a need for something different on P.E.I.,” MacDonald added.
MacMillan said the idea was to create a venue where people can go out as a group and try something new and fun they haven’t tried before.
“It’s axe-throwing is what it is, there’s no fancy way to explain it.”
“Obviously, (mixing) alcohol and axes is something to be weary of. But the bartenders and the other staff working will keep an eye on people’s state, and if somebody seems too intoxicated to throw, they’re more than welcome to keep watching, but they won’t be allowed to actually handle the axes.”
-Ryan MacMillan
MacMillan’s father owns the Sports Page and had an extra room available in the building, which made the possibility for the lounge a reality.
In early November, the co-owners got to work constructing the cage where the axes will be thrown.
Since handling sharp axes is involved, MacMillan said those playing will be asked to sign a waiver.
“Obviously, (mixing) alcohol and axes is something to be weary of,” MacMillan said. “But the bartenders and the other staff working will keep an eye on people’s state, and if somebody seems too intoxicated to throw, they’re more than welcome to keep watching, but they won’t be allowed to actually handle the axes.”
Axes are contained to the caged-in area, where only two people will be allowed in at a time and will play against each other.
MacMillan said anyone who is 19 years of age and older can give it a try, regardless of gender or skill set.
“There’s absolutely zero experience required,” he said. “After they do it a few times, they’ll eventually hit one and start to get on to it and they’ll have more fun – and it does feel good when you get one (in the target).”
Aside from opening a unique venue, MacMillan said working with local businesses was important. Food will be available at the venue through Famous Peppers; beer from the P.E.I. Brewing Company and Upstreet Craft Brewing will be on tap; and the signs were made by Sign Craft in Charlottetown.
Chuck Hatchets opens today and is taking bookings. To book a time or for more information, visit the Chuck Hatchet Facebook page.
