Blog | Latest updates from Ax-Caliber

About Ax-Caliber Lakeland

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 04:48:31 GMT

Have you ever gone ax throwing? Not in Polk County, Florida you haven’t. But you can soon. This year, AX-Caliber is opening as Polk County’s very first ax-throwing venue! Learn a bit about Ax-Caliber Lakeland below!

Ax-Caliber is proud to be opening in Lakeland, Florida! Our goal is to bring a family-friendly venue for quality coffee and exciting ax throwing to the Downtown Lakeland area. We will have 14 lanes, 2 pool tables, games, and big-screen TVs.

Never thrown an axe before?

Furthermore, all are welcome who are 12 and older with parental supervision and 18 and older without! We have AX-perts to help teach you and ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Since it is the first of its kind in this area, many people will be throwing their first ax here and we look forward to guiding you in this new thrilling past time.

AX-Caliber is fun for everyone! Join us any time for family fun, crafted coffee, and the thrill of axe throwing! Take an ax-full lunch break with friends, or come in for drinks after work! Opening 2020!

When do we open?

Finally, our soft opening and grand opening are TBA but coming soon! We are easy to find too. Just a couple of blocks down from Munn Park. You can find us at the corner of Orange Street and Kentucky Avenue in the new building!

So will you come into the next year as a novice ax-thrower? Will you discover your next favorite coffee brand and pass time? Stay tuned for info on ax throwing, openings, and more!

What is Ax-Throwing?

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 04:45:49 GMT

What is Axe Throwing?

Axes are one of the oldest tools and weapons in the world. Although ax-throwing did not exist until long after axes were already being used and competitions did not show up until even further in ax history. In the last 20 years of lumberjack sports, ax throwing has emerged as a unique pastime for many people.

What does it look like?

When you see an axe throwing venue, it looks similar to a rustic bowling alley with lanes separating each person for safety. Large wooden targets stand at the end of each lane. The axes are more of a handheld size like hatchets. There are generally two ways to throw, one-handed or two-handed, but there are always experts there to guide new throwers.

This may be the first you are hearing of it, but axe throwing is a real sport that even has tournaments on ESPN that get broadcasted live.

Is it for everyone?

Think of darts or bowling but more thrilling. This sport makes a fun get together for friends, families, the office, or even by yourself during a lunch break. The axe throwing venue is a place to hang out like no other. Complete with pool tables, big-screen TVs, and other games this can be a unique experience for parties and corporate events that stands out from the rest.

What else is there?

Aside from all the games and the main event, axe throwing, AX-Caliber has amazing food, beer & wine, and Caliber Coffee! Caliber Coffee has 6 different blends along with apparel and gear.

Why throw an Ax?

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 04:43:46 GMT

You might be wondering why someone would want to throw an ax, I can assure you that there are plenty of reasons. First, it is fun. It is probably something you haven’t done before and now is the perfect time to try something new.

How to throw an ax

Ax throwing is not difficult. Although you might not get bullseyes right away, it is fundamentally simple. With either one hand or two, you throw the ax and it leaves your hand. It should rotate 1 time in the air before hitting the target. The wooden target is large and it won’t take long for you to get in the flow of it.

What else can you do?

Aside from the ax-throwing lanes, AX-Caliber has pool tables, games, and big-screen TVs making it a great all-around space out-of-the-box parties and events. We will also have leagues and competitions you can participate in. Have you ever been in a bowling league? Picture that but with axes instead. We also have our Caliber Coffee brand being served in our cafe.

Who started this trend?

Are you ready to give it a try? Book now!

Is Axe Throwing Safe?

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 04:38:38 GMT

The big question, is axe throwing safe? Although it sounds like hurling a sharp and ancient weapon at a wooden target would have its dangers, axe throwing is safe. In this post, we will go over how Ax-Caliber has made a fun-filled night of axe throwing safe.

COVID-19

Ax-Caliber has built out pits with two targets per pit. Each pit is separated by a wood wall with cage-like fencing in between. So if groups are together but throwing in separate lanes they can still interact. For COVID-19 precautions coaches will wipe down all axes and tabletops with high-level disinfectants in between each group to ensure cleanliness during these times.

Our Top Priority

Safety is the number one priority. You are in a controlled environment with a coach overseeing your activity for the duration of your visit to ensure safety is adhered to. Each guest will be briefed on proper techniques and procedures before they can participate. If any participant in a session does not follow rules and becomes a safety hazard, we reserve the right to ask that guest to cease throwing and they will not receive a refund.

What if it’s your first time?

We have experts at the ready to walk you through ax-throwing for beginners until you get it down. As this venue is Polk County’s first-ever of its kind, we suspect many people will be throwing for their first time. The safety and training for ax throwing take about 15-25 minutes depending on group size and how quickly people catch on to the sport.

Are you ready?

All you have to do is be 18 or older, wear closed-toe shoes, and book your session. Walk-ins will also be accepted if time slots are available, but booking ensures your place. Kids 12-17 are permitted to throw as long as there is a parent or guardian to supervise. Check out our FAQs page for more answers!

Axe Throwing Tournaments

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 04:35:47 GMT

Are Axe Throwing Tournaments a Real Thing?

You bet that axe throwing tournaments are a real thing! Within the World Axe Throwing League , represented in 19 different countries, with over 157 league locations in the United States along; there is more than enough appetite for the friendly competition and family fun that axe throwing tournaments bring. The main elements of every axe-throwing competition are code of conduct, definition of fair sportsmanship, and the rules of gameplay.

Axe Throwing Competition Codes of Conduct

Whether you refer to the World Axe Throwing League or the International Axe-Throwing Federation , each takes a moment to outline very similar codes of conduct. Code of Conduct for ax throwing competition all agree on some of the following:

No discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental ability, or religious beliefs will cause a competitor to be expelled from a tournament.
No behaviors which endanger the health or safety of any player, official, or spectator.
Not initiate a fight or scuffle with any individual at the event

With rules like these, you can tell that competition can get intense at a good tournament!

Axe Throwing Sportsmanship

Furthermore, every sport has disagreements between competitors. Axe throwing tournaments are the same! Having a professional level of sportsmanship ensures that everyone can enjoy the experience.

The phrase “be a good sport” applies to this sport, too. After all, you want to be welcome back to the venue to compete in the future. So be a great competitor and operate with solid sportsmanship.

Rules of Game Play

At every tournament, the rules may vary slightly. If the event is sponsored by one of the leading organizations in the axe throwing world, you can get their rules from their respective websites.

However, be sure to learn the rules of gameplay. They nearly always include clarification on important rules such as minimum age, warm-up throws, quality of targets, pauses in play and more.

Rules Like These Ensure Axe Throwing Tournaments Are Fun For Everyone

Finally, as the sport of axe throwing grows, the need for clear and consistent rules will be supremely important. Be sure to review the rules of the next venue where you compete. Learn the code of conduct, what is viewed as proper sportsmanship, and the rules of gameplay, and you will definitely ensure the growth of this awesome sport!

Venue in Lakeland – Ax-Caliber

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 04:31:36 GMT

An amazing Venue in Lakeland, now open for reservations!

We have it all under one roof – food and fun! Why not be the coolest person setting this day up! We handle the details with you and you come out on top! In fact, check out our website for more information.

Want to host your next corporate event throwing axes?

Has your team been under pressure lately? Do they need a way to blow off steam and have a little fun together?

While society endures social distancing and isolation, election fears, and general uncertainty, teams and employees every endure the strains of tightening budgets, elevated emotions, and urgency to grow in tough times.

Further, that may be all the reason you need to get your team together throwing sharp objects at targets!

Axe Throwing for Team Building

You don’t need to look hard to find a good reason to help your team blow off steam and more. Several great reasons to host a corporate event at Ax-Caliber is:

it’s great for team building,
inter-unit dynamics, and;
allows employees of the company to let loose and have a fun time even during a corporate event.

I am sure that your corporate team could improve in one of these areas. But what are the benefits of a team event like this? There are many benefits to team building, but these are some of the top, most-important benefits of a corporate event at an axe venue.

The Benefit of Corporate Events at Ax-Caliber

Hosting a corporate axe throwing is not only fun, it can help your team:

align around goals,

build effective working relationships,

reduce team members’ role ambiguity, or;

find solutions to team problems.

If they haven’t asked for their next retreat to be at Ax-Caliber yet, they will!

The Events are Endless!

Besides corporate events, although very popular, are not the only thing we participate in! You can come in for anything you want!

Bachelorette/Bachelor Party
Birthday Party
Gender Reveals
Baby Shower
Bridal Shower
Bridal Reception
Going Away Party
Retirement Party
Welcome Home Party
Just Because Party

The list is never ending….

Pricing

Pricing for your corporate event will vary group to group. For larger groups, there will be discounted prices on axe throwing, even up to 30% off depending on size of group.

Contact Ax-Caliber – the best Venue in Lakeland!

Last, the easiest way to reserve a spot is to contact us directly so we can book it and set up the discount code. Email us at info@axcaliber.com

Soft Opening Week!

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 04:10:50 GMT

Central Florida Axe Throwing is really booming – that’s why we are excited to bring a venue here to Lakeland, FL. Though our Grand Opening is not until this Friday, we are open to the public!

Our Ax Caliber First Reviews

We are open for plenty of time to ensure you have a chance at axe throwing, too!

Monday: 7am – 11pm
Tuesday: 7am – 11pm
Wednesday: 7am – 11pm
Thursday: 7am – 11pm
Friday: 7am – 11pm
Saturday: 7am – 11pm
Sunday: 10am – 7pm

Since these hours may change after the grand opening, you want to take advantage now of this Central Florida Axe Throwing venue right here in Lakeland.

Our Soft Opening is going over well!

Our team is greeting clients, perfecting our recipes, and, yes, sharpening our axes!

From our wonderful menu to our welcoming cafe , you and your family are going to feel at home! Stop by whenever you have time to get an ax throwing lane to yourself before its too busy! And, if you are a first responder and show up in your uniform, ask about our special discounts!

Our passionate team is excited to welcome you here.

Ax-Caliber: Your New Favorite Restaurant

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 03:55:12 GMT

At Ax-Caliber, your new favorite restaurant in downtown Lakeland, we’re also more than just a place you can come to throw axes at! If you think you can only come here with an appointment for axe throwing, you’d be mistaken. Our doors are open throughout the day to offer a wide variety of delectable meals.

Let’s walk through our lunch and dinner menu shall we?

Your new favorite downtown Lakeland lunch spot

Tired of all the lunch spots that Lakeland has to offer? How about adding Ax-Caliber to your wheel of lunch choices every week? Our bistro lunch options are the perfect amount to keep you going through the rest of your workday.

The sunny atmosphere of Ax-Caliber makes it a nice choice for a midday lunch meet-up with friends and co-workers. Plus where else in Lakeland can you chuck an axe on your lunch break?

Our lunch menu has a little bit to offer everyone. Maybe you’re looking for a lighter, leafier lunch? Try one of our salads! Whether it’s the hearty Turkey Cobb, our sweeter Sweet Greens salad or the classic Caesar – our salads will not only fill you up but also taste great!

Maybe you’re more in the mood for a sandwich. Between our handles and paninis there’s a sandwich option for everyone. If you’re looking for a meaty, filling lunch options like Bring the Piggy Back and The Huntsman are sure to satisfy. If you still want a sandwich, but perhaps a more liter option the Oh My Veggies panini or the Target Turkey Pesto panini are great choices! Overall we have several handles and paninis to offer, all coming with an option of chips, coleslaw or fruit as a side.

If you didn’t think our salads and sandwiches were enough then try one of our two soups! We offer Du Jour and seasonal Chili by the cup and bowl. We even have homemade Turkey Pot Pie! Nothing says southern delight like a pot pie lunch!

Check out our full lunch menu and come grab a bite!

Spend a fun evening at Ax-Caliber

What’s more fun than meeting up with your friends to throw axes while enjoying a few rounds of beer and sharing an appetizer? We pride ourselves on creating a thrilling and fun atmosphere for you and your party.

Our dinner menu offers several different options for appetizers to share. While we offer classics like wings and onion rings we also have unique offerings like The Cone of Bacon and our Monte Cristo Sliders. All our apps will foster the feelings of a good time.

At Ax-Caliber we believe in the spirit that sharing is caring, therefore we also offer a variety of dips and flatbreads to share with your closest pals (or to keep for yourself, we won’t judge!)

Also making an appearance on our dinner menu are everyone’s favorite: fries! There are several combinations of tasty fry options you have to satiate that salty craving that only fries can satisfy.

Because we love them so much we also have two salads (Sweet Greens and Caesar) and two handles (Bring the Piggy Back and The Huntsman) making a reappearance on our dinner menu.

And if you didn’t think that was enough, nothing caps off an exciting evening out quite like dessert! Ice cream, donuts, and cookies, oh my! We have some seriously sweet desserts that you’ll be glad you indulged on.

Check out our dinner menu and come have some fun with us tonight!

We’re more than just an axe throwing joint

At Ax-Caliber we have a lot to offer. You may come expecting just axe throwing, but you’ll leave with a belly full of delicious food too! You don’t even have to throw axes to eat here, we want to become your new favorite lunch spot and your go-to hang out spot in the evening.

Lastly, your favorite restaurant in downtown Lakeland is located at 204 E. Orange Street Suite 102 – come throw an axe and grab a bite to eat!

Ax-Caliber Breakfast: the Best Way to Rise and Shine

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 03:29:16 GMT

Rise and shine Lakelanders and treat yourself to an Ax-Caliber breakfast! Yes, you heard that right – there’s more to Ax-Caliber than just throwing axes at a target. In addition, we provide a full service menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

In our opinion, breakfast and coffee at Ax-Caliber is an experience you must try for yourself. Our amazing downtown location makes it an easy stop on the way into work and it’s quite peaceful in the mornings here. Plus our breakfast menu offers the perfect variety so there’s a breakfast option for everyone.

Curious? Check out our menu and let us tell you more about an Ax-Caliber breakfast!

Start your morning energized with an Ax-Caliber coffee

If you work in Lakeland, chances are you work downtown. Although as nice as it would be to enjoy your morning cup of joe at home, sometimes there just isn’t the luxury time! With our awesome location downtown, chances are we’re steps away from your office making it the perfect energizer pit stop on the way to work.

Did you know before there was Ax-Caliber, first, there was Caliber Coffee? Having bold, great tasting coffee has always been part of the Caliber vision, our beans are even roasted locally. Every coffee beverage available for order was made completely in house.

We have different coffee beverages for all kinds of coffee drinkers. We offer the classic and simple cup of coffee with varying roast levels so there’s something percolating for everyone. Perhaps you’re more of an espresso drinker? We offer “Ax-Presso” classics hot and iced! And if you’re really in the mood to treat yourself to a caffeinated delight, try one of our several frappe blended drinks. It’s for all you sweet tooths out there!

You know you need to get to work on time and waiting in the never-ending Starbucks line is never the best option. Start your morning on the right foot with Ax-Caliber coffee.

Ax-Caliber breakfast: the most fun breakfast you’ll ever have

There’s no such thing as too many breakfast places in one city and we felt like Lakeland was in need of another solid breakfast option. That’s why we’re open everyday at 10am!

Our Ax-Caliber breakfast menu is simple, but impactful. We have offerings for everyone! Our Bad Ax Breakfast Sandwich will allow everyone to build the breakfast sandwich they’re craving. You won’t want to miss out on our waffles, whether it’s the Waffle Plus or our Chicken and Waffles – our golden, crispy, buttery waffles will make anyone’s mouth water.

If you’re looking for lighter fare we also provide tasty toasts, rotating quiche of the day, and our Bullseye Parfait – all a delicious way to start your day. Perhaps you’re looking for a small taste of New York here in Lakeland, FL? Then you should try our Battle Box Bagel! Life hack: if you’re looking for a way to cultivate office camaraderie order bagels for the whole office, we’re sure it’ll be a hit!

And if you’re on-the-go one of our pastries paired with your coffee is a sure fire way to make your morning a happy one.

Where else in Lakeland can you order Chicken and Waffles with a side of axe throwing? We feel pretty confident that an Ax-Caliber breakfast is the most fun breakfast you can have in Lakeland. Come see for yourself!

Rise and shine at Ax-Caliber!

Last, at Ax-Caliber we welcome all morning people and sleepy heads alike. We’re more than just a place to throw axes, we want to be your go-to morning coffee and brunch spot!

Come try our all-day convenient coffee and also the most fun breakfast you’ll ever have, we’re located in the middle of downtown at 204 E. Orange Street Suite 102 . Come rise and shine with us Lakeland!

Ax-Caliber: Wine Down With Us Tonight

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 03:11:50 GMT

By now you’ve heard about all of our delicious food options, and of course our ax-throwing activities. But did you know that Ax-Caliber also offers a wide variety of beer and wine?

We’ve got a little something for everyone – we make the perfect date night destination or after-work meetup. No matter what your plans, we’ve got just the right drink to help you wind down your day.

Check out our beer and wine menu to see what options are available today!

The Perfect After-Work Destination

Picture this… it’s been a long day at the office and you’re ready to relax and let off some steam. Since you’re already in the downtown area, you want to walk to your destination and grab a bite to eat and a drink with your friends.

Enter Ax-Caliber: where you can eat, drink, and throw an axe or two! Ax-Caliber is the perfect place to hang out with your friends after a hectic day. Complete your meal with a draft, bottled, or canned beer, or a glass of wine. We even have pitchers of beer so you can share with your friends and family.

A Drink For Everyone

At Ax-Caliber we pride ourselves on having options for everyone – food and drinks alike. No matter if you prefer beer or wine, we’ve got something tasty for you!

We have our own 300 blackout coffee brewed into a signature beer with The Florida Brewing Co. called ‘300 Damn kids.’ It received this name as a joke. Kraig says to all the kids when they are up to no good – “damn kids.”

Maybe you’re in the mood for some wings, what better way to wash down chicken wings than with an ice cold beer on draft? Maybe you’d prefer something a little lighter- like our caprese flatbread which pairs perfectly with a glass of cabernet.

Come Wine Down With Us Tonight

No matter your drink preference, we’ve got you covered! Come visit us tonight at 204 E Orange St, Suite 102 and enjoy all that Ax-Caliber has to offer.

Ribbon Cutting NEW DATE

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 03:04:32 GMT

We are so excited to be welcomed into the neighborhood as Polk Counties First Axe Throwing Venue & Coffee House!

This was a huge accomplishment for our family! We hope everyone will enjoy this family friendly and fun environment! Come by and enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner or a handcrafted coffee beverage – not to mention throw an axe! All ages are welcome – we have fun foam axe throwing for the little ones and a kids menu!

Not only do we feel so loved by the people of the Lakeland community, but we are now able to perform a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Lakeland Chamber . We would love for you to join us on March 2nd at 4 PM for this ceremony! Lastly, we have specials running all day to keep the celebration going!

Specials include:

$15 Axe Throwing Walk-Ins

15% off food and beverages

Ax-Caliber is also a Coffee House/Restaurant, in addition to the axe throwing, where we serve Caliber Coffee – an organic water washed bean roasted locally here in Lakeland. We even had the honor to pair with The Florida Brewery to create a coffee lager called “300 damn kids” which is brewed with our 300 Blackout Coffee.

Come check us out and celebrate with us as we become Polk Counties First Axe Throwing Venue & Coffee House. We cannot wait to see you!

From our family to yours!

Haven Magazine – So Very Ax-Citing

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 02:48:35 GMT

We are so honored to be welcomed to Polk County as a new restaurant and to have been written about in Haven Magazine! Didn’t get a chance to read it, then read it here or below:

So Very Ax-citing

WORDS Tara Crutchfield PHOTOGRAPH Amy Sexson | Mar 1, 2021 Updated Mar 1, 2021

There’s nothing like a strong cup of coffee to keep you sharp in the morning, well that and maybe an airborne axe or two. Joyce and Kraig Woodrow opened Ax-Caliber Axe Venue and Coffee House, the first of its kind for Polk County, in downtown Lakeland last fall. The pandemic presented challenges, but Joyce says they’ve been ‘blessed’ in their venture despite them all. “We’re both entrepreneurs. We always have been,” said Joyce. She hails from South Florida, Kraig from New Jersey. They moved to Polk County in 1999. Kraig is a software engineer, and Joyce has been running her own fitness company, Fit for Life Ministries, for about ten years.

“We started the coffee business about four and a half years ago,” she said. “Everybody in our family loves to drink coffee.” Every Saturday morning, the Woodrow’s would go on a coffee date to Starbucks. Joyce said, “I remember sitting there one day saying to my husband, ‘We need to have our own coffee company.’”

For some time, the family had desires to open an indoor gun range and coffeehouse. They dubbed their coffee brand, Caliber. “All of our blends are based on the strength of the caliber,” she said. “We found a local roaster here in Lakeland […]. We told them how we wanted our coffee to taste and that we wanted it to be organic with no chemicals, all water washed. They were able to accommodate us. […] They designed blends based on our palate.”

Their blends – from free-trade farms around the world – include a selection of bullet-themed names like their 22 Cal Decaf, 9mm Breakfast Blend, 45 Cal Medium Smooth, 357 Magnum Dark, and Kraig’s favorite, the 300 Blackout Extra Dark. Until they opened Ax-Caliber, Caliber Coffee Company was exclusively online. “We wanted to open something up that was going to be fun for Polk County for people to come to.” The gun range concept shifted into an axe throwing venue and coffeehouse.

Ax-Caliber opened in late November, with their grand opening on December 4, 2020. “It was quite a challenge,” Joyce said, looking back on the journey. When they signed the contract for their building, COVID-19 wasn’t at the forefront of public attention in the states yet. A month or two later, everything changed. Kraig was furloughed, and Joyce left her company for six months. Holding their breath, the pair carried on with their plans to open the downtown axe throwing venue. “It was this uncertainty and not knowing what was going to happen,” she said. The Woodrow’s hit a snag when ordering supplies to furnish and stock Ax-Caliber, with shipments being continuously pushed back due to the virus. They initially intended to open in August, but supplies weren’t coming. “You can’t open a restaurant without equipment, and you can’t open anything without furniture,” she said.

“Finally, things started falling into place, but it wasn’t until November. […] We just prayed a lot and asked God to continue to keep those doors open, and whatever was going to happen was going to happen. We decided on November 20 that we were going to go for it.”

“We have been blessed beyond words,” she said. “We’ve had some ups and downs. There have been a lot of learning curves during this time with COVID.” Joyce and the team are taking those learning curves in stride, doing all they can to keep staff and guests safe by implementing a mask policy for their employees and keeping the establishment sanitized. Everything was different than it might have been, had they opened any other year – staff capacity, hours of operation, even menu size.

The Ax-Caliber motto is ‘Coffee of a higher caliber.’ Joyce said, “We wanted to make sure whatever we brought to Lakeland or Polk County was also of a higher caliber. When you visit Ax-Caliber, everything from the beginning when you walk into the door, to the time you order your food, what you taste, what you drink, and how you play – we also want to make sure it’s of a higher caliber and that you leave here feeling that you were really taken care of.”

Food and Drink

In addition to their full café menu of Caliber Coffee drinks prepared by trained baristas, Ax-Caliber serves beer, wine, and a full axe pun-laden menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

If you’re looking for a pick-me-up and calm-me-down all wrapped in one drink, check out their coffee lager– 300 Damn Kids, brewed by The Florida Brewery. The name comes from the 300 Blackout Coffee it’s made with and an affectionate reference to their kids, an inside joke amongst the Woodrow family.

“When our kids come over, and they eat us out of house and home, my husband always looks in the refrigerator and goes, ‘Those damn kids ate all my food.’ He’s always joking with them all the time like, ‘Here come those damn kids again.’ We love, love, love our kids and grandkids, and it’s a big joke in the house. They even write on their cards sometimes, ‘Love, your damn kids.’”

‘Fresh’ and ‘tasty’ are words Woodrow used to describe the items on Ax-Caliber’s curated menu. The team prides itself on their food – making many of their dips, sauces, pastries, quiche, and other goods like turkey pot pie made with their turkey cooked in-house. Guests can enjoy soups, salads, sandwiches, and shareables down to a little something for your sweet tooth.

A Sharp Atmosphere

Home away from home is the vibe the Ax-Caliber owners were shooting (or should I say axe throwing) for, and Joyce’s interior design hit the bullseye. “When I designed it, I wanted it to feel industrial but not hard. I wanted it to feel just like if you were to go home and enjoy a nice drink or sit and listen to some music, and I wanted it to feel comfortable.”

Joyce envisioned a space for everyone – an atmosphere that welcomed couples and college students, professionals, and people from all walks of life. She chose a mix of materials to achieve the cozy industrial look. Materials like leather and cloth, wood, iron, steel, and stone, work in tandem, radiating a welcoming warmth to customers.

From the dreamy lighting and comfy couches to table games, televisions, and pool tables, Ax-Caliber can be a place for camaraderie or a quiet cup of coffee and a book.

Getting the Axe

Lakelanders and lumberjacks can walk in to enjoy a one-hour axe throwing session or reserve two hours ahead of time. Guests are greeted at the axe check-in area, where they sign a waiver (which can be done on your phone by scanning a QR code) and assigned a personal Ax-pert and pit.

The venue, which is an official venue of the World Axe Throwing League, has seven pits made up of two lanes each, for a total of 14 lanes. Because of the pandemic, guests may sometimes have to wait for an axe throwing session as safety guidelines don’t allow for shared pits beyond your group. At your pit, your Ax-pert will explain safety guidelines, answer questions, and demonstrate how to throw. “They want to make sure that you have a great time and that you stay safe doing it,” said Joyce.

Closed toes shoes are mandatory to participate. No worries if you show up in a pair of flip-flops, Ax-Caliber offers pink Crocs (yes, even for you manly men) and disposable socks. Scorecards are available, as well as different games to play throughout your session. “We are working on a scoring system right now that will be up on the tv screen,” said Joyce. You can order food and drinks before you start throwing or ask your Ax-pert to have someone take your order. You can enjoy your meal right there in the pit.

Running an axe throwing venue means plenty of maintenance. “We have a sawmill where we make all our targets,” said Joyce. They also sharpen the axes and change out handles regularly.

“It’s very empowering, […] You come in and think, ‘I can’t do this. There’s no way I can do this.’ And then you stick the axe in the wood,” she said. Exhilaration is par for the course with throwing axes. “If you’re not yelling, then you’re not having fun.”

The Woodrows seem to be succeeding in their mission to bring something new and fun to the county. About Ax-Caliber’s customers, Joyce said, “When they walk through our doors, it’s their house. It’s our house to them, and we welcome them as our family.”

Thank you so much for creating these beautiful words about us Haven Magazine! Last, please visit our website for all there is to know about Ax-Caliber Polk Counties first Axe Venue and Coffee House.

Ax-Caliber Coffee House – How to Brew

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 02:38:29 GMT

Ever wonder how to brew up an order from a coffee house and just do not know where to begin? Many of us enter a coffee house without a clue so to avoid sounding novice, we stick to what we know! But there is so much more than your typical iced or hot coffee – here is a quick tutorial!

Basics of a Coffee House

To start with the basics, we have hot or iced coffee in all blends:

Ax-Blonde – Extra Light

22 Cal – Decaf Blend

9 mm – Breakfast Blend

45 Cal – Medium

357 Magnum – Dark

300 Blackout – Extra Dark

50 Cal – Espresso

Types of Brew

So, start with the blend then move on to the next stop. One quick tip you must know is that 50 Cal is our only espresso so if you order any espresso drink, that is the blend you will receive. All of our coffee is organic, locally roasted in Lakeland and brewed daily in house. Furthermore, each coffee has different caffeine levels, here it is in order from least to most (we offer decaf as well):

Coffee

Espresso

Cold Brew

Nitro Cold Brew

Ordering Made Easy

Now for the best part… ordering time. This is where your planning all comes to light and where, if you read this, the knowledge sets in:

Iced/Hot/Cold Brew Coffee – pick the milk percentage or cream and add flavoring (if you want)

Nitro Cold Brew – served similar to the ones above but does not contain ice and comes from a tap

Frappe – same as traditional coffee but blended together to create a wonderful icy combination of yumminess

Now comes the specialty drinks, that you always wondered about:

Latte – espresso with milk poured into it, holding the foam towards the top

Macchiato – milk poured before espresso to allow for the milk and espresso to mingle before drinking

Cappuccino – equal parts espresso to milk, prepared similar to a latte

12 – 3 PM

$11 Axe Throwing for 30 Minutes

Book parties of 4 or more for axe throwing, get 10% off – use code WEEKDAYS10. Must be reserved online.

FINALLY, we love our people of Lakeland and hope these specials bring you, your families, friends, etc closer together for a time of fun and food. And if you did not know, Ax-Caliber is also a restaurant! Make sure to read our other blog posts to find out more about our specials.

All of our specials are consistent each week but we like to throw some dingers in there every once in a while so follow our social media or website for all updates!

Ax-Caliber Coffee House: Coffee For All

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 02:20:27 GMT

Good morning, Lakelanders! Are you ready to caffeinate your day here at Ax-Caliber Coffee House? We’re proud to bring you a wide-range of coffee options to start your day off on the right foot.

You can cross ‘making coffee’ off your morning to do-list. Instead, stop in and grab a cup of joe on your way to work. We’re conveniently located in downtown Lakeland!

From frappes to cold brew – there’s something for everyone here at Ax-Caliber.

Ready to start your day with us? Check out our coffee menu .

Every Beverage Starts with Coffee of a Higher Caliber

Every beverage is crafted from the ground up- starting with our coffee beans. Then, our beans are water washed, organic from free trade farms, and have no chemicals. Last, we source our beans from all over the world and then roast them right here in Lakeland.

Rest assured, we’re making you the freshest cup of coffee you can find around the Lakeland area!

Menu Guide: Little Axers Kids Menu

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 02:18:26 GMT

At Ax-Caliber we strive to create an atmosphere that’s fun and family friendly – including the little ones! While adults have a wide variety of food and drink options to choose from, we make sure we include a kids menu that they are sure to love. In this post we want to share with you the options your kids have to enjoy when dining at Ax-Caliber.

Little Axers Lunch and Dinner Menu

We understand that your 5-year-old probably isn’t craving a hummus board, caesar salad or BLT that’s why we have the Little Axers menu ! When you come and eat at our place your child will have a handful of options they can choose from to eat.

Grilled Cheese: Our Grilled Cheese sandwich for little axers is full of that cheesy, ooey-gooey goodness that kids love.

PB&J: What’s more classic than a PB&J sandwich? Your kids will love our take on the classic American favorite with loads of sticky peanut butter and sweet grape jam.

Chicken Nuggets: Children everywhere rejoice! Have you met a kid who doesn’t love chicken nuggets? We haven’t either! Which is why we knew having this kid-approved dish would make it their favorite restaurant.

Flatbread Cheese Pizza: If you have a kid who wants something less “kids menu”, our Flatbread Cheese Pizza is right up their alley. Made with the same ingredients we use for our Flatboards – your child will feel like a “big kid” enjoying their (fun-sized) flatbread pizza.

Next, all our Little Axers can pick one of the following sides: a choice of fruit, chips, coleslaw, or applesauce. Also, every kids menu item is served with a drink.

Little Axers Beverage Kids Menu

In addition to your Little Axers entree, kids can choose from a selection of beverages to accompany their meal. Our kid-approved drink options are: apple juice carton, milk, chocolate milk, and orange juice.

All beverages can also be swapped out for a kids sized soda!

Ax-Caliber has a Menu for the Whole Family

Lastly, while we agree that Ax-Caliber truly shines as the unique date night spot or the fun evening hangout with friends – we also want to make sure any family feels welcome in our establishment. Part of the way we try to do this is by offering our Little Axers kids menu. For $6 you get your kids menu entree, a side and drink as well!

Next time you’re going out as a family, come eat at Ax-Caliber! We can’t wait to meet and serve your family. If you’re curious about all our options, check out our full menu !

From Booking to Axe Throwing: What to Expect at Ax-caliber

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 02:07:59 GMT

Axe throwing at Ax-Caliber? First off, great choice! We think we host a fun and safe environment for anyone to throw axes. From booking to throwing the first axe, this is what you can expect when scheduling an axe throwing lane at Ax-Caliber.

We offer 5 for 5 which is 5 minutes of coaching and 5 minutes of free axe throwing to see if you like it! Only offered during non-peak hours, test it out while eating lunch. Axe throwing opens at 12 pm.

Step 1: Decide How Long You Want for Axe Throwing

The shortest time slot we offer is a 1-hour walk-in only throwing reservation for $28 per person. We also offer 2-hour throwing reservations for $43 per person, reservation only.

Step 2: Book Your Lane or Swing on By for Axe Throwing!

If you know you want to do a 1-hour walk-in booking, then we would suggest calling ahead to see how busy lanes are. You won’t be able to book your lane until you arrive – but at least calling ahead to see how busy we are will help gauge whether or not you’ll be able to book a lane.

If you know you want to do a 2-hour booking, you can book your lane online or call ahead at 863-593-3500 to let us know the date and time you’d like to reserve.

Step 3: Arrive Early for Your Booking

You’ll want to make full use of your booking at Ax-Caliber and arrive 15 minutes early to your lane booking. That way, getting checked-in and completing your waiver form won’t get in the way of your throwing time – fill it out ahead of time here .

Step 4: Safety Training

The first 15-25 minutes of your booking will be taught by one of our “ax-perts!” This is to make sure everyone knows the proper technique in throwing an axe and stays safe! If your group is able to catch on quick, sometimes the training can take less time. Rest assured you’re still getting to throw axes and play the games the ax-perts have for you!

Step 5: Have an Absolute BLAST Throwing Axes

Now it is time for you and your group to enjoy the rest of your booking throwing axes! We hope that you will have the best time together and challenging one another on your axe throwing skills. While you’re at it, grab some food off our menu or a beer or wine to round out your experience.

So there you have it! Those are the 5 steps everyone takes from booking to throwing an axe at Ax-Caliber. If you have further questions about scheduling or our process – feel free to contact us through our website or give us a call at 863-592-3500 . We hope you’ll visit us soon at Ax-Caliber!