Kraken Axes & Rage | Penn Quarter

This place used to be great for beginners—flattering targets, light axes, and attentive staff. That’s exactly why I chose to return here after a two-month break due to an injury. Unfortunately, everything has gone downhill. 1. The manager started arguing about my shoes, even though their website clearly states that closed-toe shoes are required. I was wearing ballet flats, which fully cover the toes, but he insisted that my entire foot had to be covered—something that’s nowhere in the actual rules, just his personal interpretation. When I pointed this out, he muttered, “Ugh, they should have been more specific,” but instead of just letting me in, he tried to suggest I borrow my husband’s socks and his (manager’s) (!) boots. Seriously??? 2. We were unexpectedly paired with a random customer, which made the experience frustrating. It’s not this person’s fault—they were just a beginner—but we had to constantly wait for them. Since the lanes are shared, you can’t retrieve your axe while the other person is still aiming, unless you want to risk getting an axe to the back of the head. 3. The axes were in awful condition, and yet we weren’t allowed to use our own. The grip wrapping was in terrible shape, making it uncomfortable and even unsafe to hold. 4. The targets were in terrible shape (see photo). They were literally falling apart into splinters, making it impossible for an axe to stick, no matter how accurately you throw. Instead, the axes just dropped to the ground. When I pointed this out to an employee, he pretended not to understand, even though he had the exact same issue while demonstrating the technique. Even when the random customer also complained, he ignored it. 5. We were left with two options: either share a single functional target between three people, or leave. We chose the latter. I used to recommend this place, but after this experience—never again. Complete disappointment.

Took my boyfriend here for us to let out some rage after a loss. The rage room experience itself was good. However, the safety gear did not seem safe, smelled horrific and were dirty. They should be washing the jumpsuit after each customer. We felt so gross putting everything on. The helmet and ear muffs were disgusting. There were Lysol wipes to use in which we did and the amount of dirt that came off was gross. We wanted to get drinks somewhere after but we had to run home and shower instead. Furthermore, the male that assisted us was on the phone with headphones in and did not explain anything to us. We walked in and he handed us the smelly jumpsuits then he walked off. The other female that was there was kind and noticed us just standing there confused and explained where he went. I would not recommend this place or go back. We would have left but were there and already paid for the experience.

I organized a work outing to Kraken. From setting it up, to communication before the event to the actual event, the Kraken team was super helpful and everything went smoothly. The event itself was super fun, we had lots of time to socialize and throw axes. It was very warm in there, which is the only negative, but the cold drinks helped. The coaches were not overbearing but as involved and helpful as we wanted. And they gave really good instruction.

First time throwing an axe. Booked a slot for an early evening activity before going somewhere for dinner. Group of four were highly entertained by our host who gave us the rules and a quick lesson before guiding us through some competitive axe throwing games. Didn’t try out the rage room this time. I would definitely hand fun wielding an axe and would return if in the DC area.

This place is awesome! Super efficient check in process with the host, the bartender was funny and friendly and they were just super accommodating to us. We’ve been here a few times before and love it every time. It’s a pretty low-key, relaxing vibe and lots of fun. 10/10 recommend and will keep coming back.