Great location. Great concept. I thoroughly enjoy the idea of being able to throw axes with my friends while enjoying fresh food and adult beverages. I went when Skal first opened, back in 2020 and had an excellent time.
Unfortunately on a recent visit the experience had slipped enormously and fell far short of previous levels. I believe it was due to complications from staffing challenges and neglecting to maintain the equipment.
When we arrived (party of six) we were greeted and checked in and had no initial issues. But our lane needed to have a board replaced and staff had difficulty getting that coordinated which created a significant delay before we were able to start. It seemed like the folks doing the repairs were untrained or poorly trained. (Thankfully it was only one!) Once the board was replaced, we weren't given any instructions on anything. No demonstrations of how to throw the axes, no safety advice, no help on technique, no instructions on the actual rules of the competition, literally nothing at all. PREVIOUSLY an axe master spent at least a quarter hour with us showing us the skills, helping us work on technique, and teaching us the rules. This time, the person who helped check us in escorted us to our lanes put down a couple of menus, showed us a rule book, pointed to the two janky axes, and left.
The axes were another disappointment. They were in poor condition and there were only two short axes. One was literally taped up and the other had a damaged handle. PREVIOUSLY there were very nice axes: two short ones, two long ones. (Long ones are thrown two handed.) This time: a couple of axes you'd find at a run down Boy Scout camp.
The food & beverage experience was another disappointment. PREVIOUSLY we had no issues placing an order or getting food. It was quick, efficient, and delicious. This time, there was a lone bartender who had to work the entire bar, make the food, and deliver the food. Way way way too much work and the person was visibly frustrated and could only handle one person at a time along a bar of maybe a dozen hungry/thirsty patrons. (And while we're waiting, our limited time at the axe lane is ticking down every second.) There were service industry folks offering to come back and help out because everyone felt so sorry for the bartender.
I understand staffing issues. The employees were doing the best they could with what they had. It isn't THEIR fault. And they are not responsible for keeping equipment in stock and maintained. I applaud the staff for trying to make it a good experience with the limited resources they had available.
I hope Skal management works to return operations to their previously glory. I really want to support our local business but paying almost $400 (6 people x $30 each for the axe lanes plus food/drink) for long delays on shoddy lanes to throw shoddy axes and wait half an hour for a beer and nachos is not an experience we...
Read morePretty excited to do this review for a multitude of reasons. Firstly I've been following this place on Facebook for a while, near a year, but never got to go bc ppl can be lame.
But i finally got the opportunity to go and I honestly dunno what I waited so long for. Bc it was awesome. I mean a bar where u can throw axes then throw back a beer HELL YES! OR u can just take out some pent up anger after a stressful day at work.
I didn't get the axe throwing rules in a pic I forgot I know I know.
I got to meet the owner Mr. Daniel McNatt.... I will say from experience it's rare to meet owners that are personable and friendly that regular clientele. Especially since after hours he stepped up and gave the axe coaching himself.
Theres a heavy history channel vikings theme as Mr Daniel's a fan. There's some nice murals on the wall in viking theme which seems to be done on biloxi Beach that look surprisingly authentic and best of all a handmade viking throne.
Also from Mr McNatt he is about to sign a lease back in my hometown of Covington. How ironic... Super stoked about it tho. It supposedly will be a larger location with a party room. Near the place by the old off track betting on hwy 190. He will be looking for bartenders and Axe coaches soon. Expected opening summer 21!!
Food and drinks here on the lite side but it's pretty good. Pics of the to Valhalla and punch drink monk (modified) were excellent. As was the full on berserker (pictured) very curiously the first time I've ever seen it on a menu koolaid pickles.....
The staff I met is all super friendly. Everyone seems to enjoy and know how to throw axes.
They do support WATL (world axe throwing league) so there are competitions, rules and regs... If u want or just throw for fun. You can buy sessions by throw or by time slot (30 or an hr).... The best part is there's a game book with several modes and rules to keep it fun and exciting.
I enjoyed my time here and will be back or at least at the opening of the location back home.
PSA seems Friday and Saturday seems to be by appointment only as there's so many appointments booked there's no open slots normally. You can also schedule private events and close the center down for the duration. Also a mobile axe...
Read moreOh, boy, did we have an absolute blast here! From the moment we walked through the doors, it was clear we were in for a treat. I can’t rave enough about the fantastic staff and the whole experience—everything was just top-notch! Let me tell you about Emily, our superstar guide for the day. Even with the place buzzing like a beehive, she took the time to show us the ropes. Her patience and enthusiasm were unmatched, and she made sure every single one of us was ready to dive into the fun. It was like having our very own cheerleader!
Now, let's talk about Justin, the cocktail wizard behind the bar! This guy was something special. Not only did he whip up the most delicious drinks, but he also shared tips and tricks like he was handing out candy on Halloween. His friendly demeanor and willingness to help made us feel right at home, and we couldn’t have asked for a better bartender to keep the good times rolling.
If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate date night or a spot for a group outing, look no further—this place has to be at the top of your list! Emily went above and beyond to ensure our group had an amazing time. She even worked her magic to get us lanes side by side, accommodating our large group with ease. It’s these little touches that made our visit unforgettable.
We’re giving this experience a 100% thumbs up! So much so that we’re already plotting and planning our next adventure back. Whether it's the incredible staff, the vibrant atmosphere, or the sheer fun of the activities, this place has captured our hearts. We can’t wait to return and relive all the excitement. Trust us, you won’t want to miss out...
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