Shad, I read your book over the weekend! To be honest, I was kinda hesitant to read it, but I just wanted to know what it was about. I was pleasantly surprised for it to be this engaging, I really loved it. It's been a long time since I read a whole book over a weekend and I'm a bit sad to be finished already. It was an very enjoyable and emotional read! Great Work!
Spoilers for the book The main issue with the book is how much Daylen guilts himself, it's get's kinda obnoxious how he under his trial just accepts every single accusation even though it might have not been guilty in that. Otherwise yes the whole descriptive style of combat and the magic system is done very well, though sometimes it might be a bit too much, but that doesn't mean it isn't a good read, it's still a book I sometimes read every now and then.
@@NocturnalPyro It also feels like Daylen isn't doing enough good, and he slips into his old self a lot. Like when he absolutely brutalized the old man in that alley, and stuck the pirate on a spike. But that honestly makes sense. While he is determined to do good, his past, his Shadow still has some control over him.
'what situation would there be in which you would want to throw an axe'. I'd say when it's magic and comes back to you hand. I feel like super strength isn't what makes the leviathan axe work as a logic weapon i think it's the magic that allows it to defy the laws of physics once thrown.
Kind. Of like when would you want to throw a hammer at someone unless you could call it back......lmao... Or if its made from one of the most dense "magical" ore to man... I love shad because of how literal he is
Very this, yeah. Even if your aim isn't good I doubt getting hit in the face by the butt of an axe isn't particularly pleasant. If you miss you could even do the Thor maneuver of recalling it and it'll smack someone in the back of the head.
from watching the animation, it also seems possible, even likely, that some sort of magic guides the blades as they are moving through the air, as if Kratos is somehow aiming them by transferring energy through the chains and into the blades.
You would be really happy, because oyu know the guy A) just lost his weapon which oyu might be able to grab while running and B) the throwing has slowed him down, so if oyu don't mange to grab the axe, you at least won 2m of distance, if not more.
Something to keep in mind about the game is that when Kratos throws the axe one handed it bounces off the enemies, but it sticks in when he throws two handed
Great observation. I thought the same thing when he said that about 2 hand being harder. Also Kratos kinda turns twists into the 2 hand throw. It's almost over the shoulder instead over the head.
Or if you hold the one hand down, and unlock the move where the axe circles, and hits them multiple times, then comes down with a small explosion. Its one of my go to moves
I grew up in the woods. Throwing all kinds of axes. I know in the game he throws the axe one handed. But once a axe gets that big, it’s better to throw it overhead with two hands. You get more force and it’s easier to control the spin of the axe. And keep the axe head from spinning off of center. Great video guys. Seems like the armor was tough to throw in too
I’m pretty sure that Krato’s actually throws the axe with two hands, when he charges at least. The result being an increase in accuracy/damage. But other than that I think your right 👍
I've always just used one hand throws regardless of the weight and size, but then.. I might have super strength. 😅 It feels awkward to do the two-handed throws, maybe it's just about practice, but I think it's more feasible in a real battle situation anyway, because you should have a shield or backup weapon ready once you've thrown away your axe.
While it wasnt connecting all the time, the fact that you hit the tree with the blade almost all the time proves this works. So even if it didnt connect, this shows its possible.
Like I know he says he’s done it before but damn I was so impressed. I Went to one of those axe throwing places and learning the axe throwing technique is no joke, you have got to have skill to master that.
A couple things I wanna mention. The Leviathanaxe has 2 sindes! It has a smaller blade on the backside which increases the area where it will stick to the target! Also it has a freakin pommel! It helps to balance the axe out, soo he rotation point is further back!
@@vadimblin seems more like it'll just make the weight centre around the blade even more so the handle will swing even more than with just one blade, which was the major problem
I am a competitive ace thrower and coach. The form is what leads to edge alignment being difficult to maintain. Having thrown axes that are 3 kilos, the baseball throw makes constancy and accuracy very hard to maintain, try squating up and keep the axe in front you to make throwing easier and more enjoyable. Enjoying the content. Keep up the good work.
In real life throwing your weapon is quite situational even if you have a backup, but if you actually had the ability to recall your weapon like Kratos or Thor, that would probably make spending time perfecting your throwing skills worth it. Being able to hit enemies from several meters away without switching to a dedicated ranged weapon, and then having the ability to attack from two opposite directions at the same time when it's returning to your hand. It's probably one of my favorite magic weapon tropes because it's such a simple concept with a lot of versatility, and it looks awesome without needing to rely on flashy colors and effects. Too bad it's also the kind of magic ability that's basically impossible to recreate in real life.
Closest I'd think we could get to recalling weapons is having a wire on it to pull it back, though there'd be a fair bit of restrictions for it realistically
@@oliverrowland2725 Modern version might be a drone of some kind (probably land rather than air traversing) being able to have a gun quickly mounted to it, so it could be sent out instead of the user who then controls it.
I consider these traits fundamental to (cinematic/videogame) boomerangs, and they're part of why it's my favorite weapon in most games that have them. The only weapons I like more than boomerangs are other weapons given this property of boomerangs - Thor's Mjolnir, Thunor's flaming labrys presumably named something like Mjolnir with an Anglo accent, Captain America's shield, the cross subweapon from the Castlevania games, and so on.
Kratos had been throwing weapons for long time, so he don't need to actually practice the throw as if it was his first time, so he can afford to throw axe as much he wanted.
As a kid I used to throw a camping axe at an old door for fun and eventually you can get it to stick just right at any distance. But it takes a lot of time to learn that skill. Also when you try it with another axe you have to relearn because of the different proportions. though it doesn't take long if you're skilled with the first axe.
Every time I see Shad with a new blade/axe/other weapon, I get the sneaking suspicion that all this UA-cam stuff's just his cover story to his wife to cover his massive greed for sharp/pointy/bludgeoning objects.
Or he has simply found the secret for him to combine his passion and proffession together. Ergo he has the dream job.a job,where it is actually a pleasure to work at.One where you are actually paid,to do what you love doing.
@@hanzquejano7112 yup,done the same thing myself in some aspects. Currently pursuing two careers that are both aligned with my passions. One as a published author,and another as a Stand up comedian
We’ve also got to remember that the Leviathan axe most likely wasn’t intended to be used as a weapon all the time. Brok and Sindri knew Faye pretty well so they probably designed the axe to also be good for cutting down trees
I don't know, it was clearly intended as a very deadly magical weapon that could rival Mjolnir. Woodcutting would likely be the least of their concerns. Also, according to some GoW: Ragnarok lore (not really a spoiler) Faye was MUCH more vicious in her fighting days than what the first game would lead you to believe.
@@ghurcbghurcb It could rival mjolnir but it was made after mjolnir, when Sindri/Brok were rather guilty about the harm they caused by giving mjolnir to the Aesir. I think a non-combat utility for the leviathan axe, so that it wasn't JUST a tool of war, was absolutely one of the intents with their creation of it.
@@ghurcbghurcb yeah, especially while fighting thor. we see from spirits in the crater that she was piiiiiiiiiiiised while fighting him, and the axe would reflect that
More specifically, many of the magical weapons in Norse mythology serve several functions. Mjolnir is a hammer that could be used for building and destroying, for an analogue.
One of the reason the horizontally thrown ax had a hard time sticking was also the fact that it was trying to enter the tree perpendicular to the grain of the wood instead of parallel with it.
When it comes to video game weapons, I’m still waiting for Shad to analyze the trick weapons from Bloodborne. It’s one of the coolest idea I’ve ever seen for video game weapons
There's nothing to analyze. It's a ridiculous, nonsensical idea. Requires technology of mechanical engineering we don't have to this day and all for pretty much zero gain at best to extreme disadvantages at usual or worst.
The problem is that the camera isn't positioned over the shoulder so shad's aim was off. Joking aside it should be mentioned that Kratos grips the handle more toward the center not bottom end of the shaft.
in my opinion its one of the best redemption stories out there especially when you think of all the things Daylen has done. now obviously at the end of the book the world has not forgiven him BUT he has enough good will and friends around him that makes him push forward.
TBH it's so good it makes me wish he would stop making youtube content and just write full-time. I want sequels. Lots and lots of sequels. New series, too.
I recently pre-ordered the comic book adaptation, but i had to really struggle, to not buy the digital version, as where i live, the shipping fee is the same price as the book, but i like to hold things in my hand, you know? Still I'm really glad to have done it and am giddily awaiting it. Greetings from Germany.
@@fenorlex1126 Yeah, he basically one of few people Kratos can call friend. He basically the great example of something like being kind and being nice it's not the same thing.
I also think that it makes a lot of sense for Kratos to be able to get it right 100% of the time and to get it to stick so deep into the target... After all this is Kratos we are talking about. He is the literal god of war, a spartan raised from birth to battle, but most importantly: He has years and years of experience with this axe that Shad just doesn't have yet... so I think that's where it comes from
Other than the fact he is a fictional character a big factor with Kratos is super strength followed by the fact Shad only has decades to practice whereas Kratos has already had hundreds if not thousands of years.
kratos actually has a two handed throw by holding the r2 button while aiming, and for the answer of why you would need to ever throw your axe kratos can miss a million times and instantly call it back so in a scenario like that i think its actually pretty good for throwing if you are skilled enough, also love tyrant man he's so adorable.
plus sometimes he hits them with the blunt end on just so it bounces off into a position behind them. all so when he calls it back it gos right into their back. plus on higher levels im prity sure his ricoshay moves is him just him throwing blunts just to bounce off multiple people
The Leviathan Axe when upgraded has a kind of spike/curve on the top of the blade to give the axe extra bite/damage. Perhaps if your replica/lookalike had a spike curve it would be more effective. Great video Shad.
I never thought that my first impulse when I started my morning would be to purchase throwing axes. Then Shad had to make this video. Good on you mate, keep up the good work!!
Shad, as someone who knows what practice is like, thank you for including the failed throw attempts! It really helps to be reminded that all of us are human and failure is an unavoidable part of DOING something, much less perfecting it (ik that wasnt the point of the video but it was nice when i realized it XD)
Let's just say, this is probably one of the best Practical knowledge channels out there (for ancient weapons)! having fun and all, but I like the fact that you just go out and try things. if it works or not, we all learned something
I love your content Shad. I watch every video I can, and they never fail to make me smile. You are your people are just so likeable, and I can't help but feel like I'm right there, hanging out with you guys.
I would indeed want to see a video on thrown swords! I still remember seeing that shot in Witcher where Geralt throws a sword and it would be interesting to find out whether that would end up being lethal or not. Fantastic video!
When throwing batarangs (heavy shuriken-like), I've found the horizontal throw is easier backhand (if throwing right-handed, swing from left to right). This allows your elbow to lead the swing (increasing range of motion), and places your shoulder in a more neutral position.
I think a potential improvement would be a kind of spike at the top of the axe head and maybe a smaller beard to compensate. A lot of the misses were due to the top hitting first and a taller head might help. I don't know though. Ps. Congrats on the graphic novel, it looks amazing. can't wait to get mine.
A flipped axe blade would be better. Instead of the axe head curving downward, if it curves upward, there's more exposed axe blade and more chances it would bite. If I design a throwing axe I will make it that way.
Btw best way to throw a axe especially with the length and weight you are throwing it's best to take one step forward, twist your wrist(the hand holding the axe) like you are about to twirl the axe and put all your weight into your chest and arm you are about throw with, then step forward with your other foot (say if you are throwing with your right hand then step with your right foot) and hurl the axe, puts a bit more force into it with a better spin. This is how it is usually done here in Norway and how a viking would have thrown a bearded axe with the force to flip the target (usually a human) onto their back,. This also helps when you have a old physical injury like a shoulder injury, or a lower back injury from years ago.
What are you talking about? A viking throwing an axe? when would a viking ever do that? It doesnt have any adventage towards an enemy and if you didnt hit your enemy you are stuck without a weapon. Please stop writing shit like this, as you were some kind of historian.
First off, finally listened to your book, and found it super enjoyable, so great job there. And thanks for once again giving us an interesting and informative video about absurd weapons.
Love your videos Shad, I’m a big medieval weapons enthusiast and I love hearing your thoughts and opinions on different types of weapons. Also the progression of your armor is awesome.
There's an ancient french culture that had axes like that which was designed to be thrown and it would spin down hills like a cartwheel and it was an extremely effective weapon. Francisca Throwing Axe
@Turigamot Why not? Many good ideas are stolen/shared by other ethnic groups. Fireworks, gunpowder, and ice cream were "stolen" from China. Rome stole military tactics from every opposing force they faced. I doubt there's a single ethnic group of any age that hasn't "stolen"/shared an idea from/to someone else. A good idea rarely stays hidden forever.
I love that in the time I've been watching shad, he went from "Medieval history enthusiast with an fantasy flair" to "Eccentric noble man with paid mercenaries who are absolutely done with his shit" lol, I love your videos man!
Ok, so I just realized how strong Shad is compared to average people. He is throwing an ax pretty freaking far while also in full armor. Of course... He is a dad, so... Dad strength!
I love this concept. Been looking for something similar to leviathan axe. I just want something bigger and more badass than my smaller axes. I’ll keep looking but this axe seems pretty legit
This was a great case study in how armor type can impact combat style. Also on why starting your axe throw infront of you is so important for allowing you to start from a position of proper alignment.
Maybe, when you're doing these comparisons of throwing weapons, you should do a baseline test against the one throwing weapon that has been used around the world by pretty much every society. The javelin or throwing spear. It's cheap, simple and, unlike the throwing knife or axe, it's always pointed in the right direction. If your alternative throwing weapon doesn't offer better penetration, range or convenience of carry your fantasy hero should just carry a javelin.
True,he'll if I remember correctly, I once watched an anime,where one of the main characters, had a javelin, that magically returned after a strike. Regretfully I can't recall the name of said anime.
Awesome video Shad! Super fun watching you guys just play around and find out cool observations about these weapons and techniques. It would be really cool to see a follow up to this on how effective the Blades of Chaos might be, both as short swords as well as thrown and swung weapons
Currently doing your book on Audible now!! On chapter 22 at the moment. I must say for your first book you’ve certainly taken on a lot of challenges, first with a redemption arc which is extremely difficult, then with your incredibly unique world and the abilities with it. I’d say there’s definitely some nitpicks I could make but overall I’m enjoying it and looking forward to where this story goes!!!
Me a Lumberjack who has been to and even joined a few Lumberjack games and knows you can throw a Felling axe a very good distance, even seen a guy throw two felling axes one in each hand and hit the target. 'not really surprised, but loving the video, Hello from Norway'.
I'd be interested in a sword throwing video. I remember Skallagrim did one a while back, but I don't think he tried different sizes. I wonder if a gladius or longsword would have any significant advantages over each other.
a fun theory i have is that kratos actually used leviathan as a wood cutting axe as he is basically retired in the woods at game start, would make a lot of sense for his weapon to double as a tool or vice versa.
@@shadiversity Thanks Shad, means a lot to me. Keep the content coming, I love both these kind of trying weapon videos and stuff about medieval times like when you explained how sieges worked and the general rules applied to them, that was super interesting
Incidentally, throwing might be a justification for the second rear edge, as if it hits just after the main edge, there's still a chance it could hit on the second edge. If it had a thrusting spike it would be even better and 15:09 wouldn't have missed.
Throwing weapons may not have been very practical in actual combat, but I'm sure it was just as much fun to do as a hobby back then as it is today. That feel when you get a nice, solid stick on your target never fails to satisfy.
With that armor on and with a huge one handed axe like that you hit almost all of the shots at least with a damaging possibility, even if they did not sink in. I think that was mad impressive 👍
I just love the banter between tyranth and shad 😂 Tyranth is just such a good addition to the shadiversity team by just being cheeky against shad and giving him a bit of competition. Love you guys! Keep up the amazing and fun work!
As someone who does competition knife and axe throwing, if it's even relatively axe-shaped, it can be thrown. Hell, it's almost like it's made to be thrown. Sure, the handle is a bit long for it, but that just means you change your stance and form a bit to fit it, otherwise it's perfectly fine.
In fairness there are special moves in the last game where the axe magically attacks targets on its own. So maybe it has some kind of magical aim assist enchantment
Yes I'm actually annoyed that you tune isn't showing me your videos as often, I love your enthusiasm, how the word tumbled out of you with the sheer joy you have in the subject
I don't know why, but Shad throwing an axe against a tree and screaming "AYEEEEEE!" everytime he hits and "woooo..." everytime he misses brings out "group of australian youngsters doing mischievous acts" vibes
I mean (spoiler for game ) Kratos wife is a giant (giants in god of war are not all giant just in comparison to humans some are 2meters and some are around 100meters tall) and also was pretty strong so it makes sense that the dwarfs made it bigger for her and also made it heavier.
I just started playing Dad of Boy again (on PC this time!) and I was pleased that the algorithm gods saw fit to put this in my queue. I love your videos. Much love from Minnesota in the US.
I think the main reason why axes like these werent for throwing isnt that it wouldnt work, its that these are large axes meant as a primary weapon. And yo do NOT want to throw away your primary weapon in a fight when it cant magically come back! (and also that, well, axes like these werent really used on the battlefield)
I gotta say that if you threw this axe at someone… it doesn’t seem like it even matters. From the way even the handle hit the tree, that’d right fuck you up if it hit you in the face. Axe blade or not
Man, I don't know why. But each time Shad reviews his throws, I keep thinking on reflex that he'd put his hand out-expecting the axe to fly back to him like the Leviathan does. Hahahaha
I don't know if this has been said yet, or not, but there is actually a technique to where you hold the axe on the handle when you throw it to adjust the spin speed.
UA-cam has recommended your video and i absolutely love the content and.....more importantly the content stuck me to the videos till the end! A subscription totally worth!
I'm not always on board for these test videos, but this one was great. Openly acknowledging own limitations, acknowledging that other, more skilled individuals would be getting better results - even if it's implicit in other videos, it's refreshing to see it be openly said.
Let's take something into account. Sticking a tree vs sticking say a more squishy organic target. As long as that blade made contact it would do significant damage
I love this video so much, it reminds me of when I was younger and started throwing all sorts of objects at an old dead tree in backyard, from machetes, knives, screw drivers and tomahawks. Now that I'm older I'm still throwing but exclusively in the World Axe Throwing League.
Hey Shad! Love your work. i was wondering if you would like to test how well chaos blades might function as well. we see Kratos whipping and throwing them around with ease.
I’m enjoying watching you practice your axe throwing techniques. Every time it sticks in good and deep, it’s a rush of endorphins. Great job. Like the God of War himself.
While I appreciate the test, a tree is kinda inconsistent target. I'd recommend getting one of those zombie-head torsos, or something similiar, if possible
I don’t know if you have anything interesting to tell us about Javelins, but can you please make a video where you (any your cute intern boy) just throw them at stuff?
I’ve been watching your channel for over a year now and every time I click on a video I get so pumped and yet jealous cause the stuff you do has always been a big passion/interest of mine! How does someone get into this field of medieval history and sword play?! Also keep making awesome videos!!
Shad, I read your book over the weekend!
To be honest, I was kinda hesitant to read it, but I just wanted to know what it was about. I was pleasantly surprised for it to be this engaging, I really loved it.
It's been a long time since I read a whole book over a weekend and I'm a bit sad to be finished already.
It was an very enjoyable and emotional read! Great Work!
Agreed! I've only just started it (about 9 chapters in) but it is quite a compelling and interesting read.
Spoilers for the book
The main issue with the book is how much Daylen guilts himself, it's get's kinda obnoxious how he under his trial just accepts every single accusation even though it might have not been guilty in that.
Otherwise yes the whole descriptive style of combat and the magic system is done very well, though sometimes it might be a bit too much, but that doesn't mean it isn't a good read, it's still a book I sometimes read every now and then.
@@NocturnalPyro It also feels like Daylen isn't doing enough good, and he slips into his old self a lot. Like when he absolutely brutalized the old man in that alley, and stuck the pirate on a spike. But that honestly makes sense. While he is determined to do good, his past, his Shadow still has some control over him.
As time goes on I’ve seen an increase in armour on shad and I’m seriously convinced he’s planning on heading back in time!
He's coming to your domain to defeat you
@@-aid4084 I yield to the giga shad
Do you think he'll reach mecha level one day?
i know who i call "my liege" once the supervirus kills internet and all modern communication, and burns all chips worldwide
100 percent to deal with the forgotten zombie invasion
'what situation would there be in which you would want to throw an axe'.
I'd say when it's magic and comes back to you hand. I feel like super strength isn't what makes the leviathan axe work as a logic weapon i think it's the magic that allows it to defy the laws of physics once thrown.
Mostly the magic, but it wouldn't really be worth throwing at all kinds of undead or superhuman monsters without the super strength.
Always like a blink dagger
Kind. Of like when would you want to throw a hammer at someone unless you could call it back......lmao... Or if its made from one of the most dense "magical" ore to man... I love shad because of how literal he is
Very this, yeah. Even if your aim isn't good I doubt getting hit in the face by the butt of an axe isn't particularly pleasant. If you miss you could even do the Thor maneuver of recalling it and it'll smack someone in the back of the head.
from watching the animation, it also seems possible, even likely, that some sort of magic guides the blades as they are moving through the air, as if Kratos is somehow aiming them by transferring energy through the chains and into the blades.
Imagine trying to run from the executioner only to see a bloody axe hit the wall in front of you.
You would be really happy, because oyu know the guy A) just lost his weapon which oyu might be able to grab while running and B) the throwing has slowed him down, so if oyu don't mange to grab the axe, you at least won 2m of distance, if not more.
Imagine runing from him an the last thing you see is his axe punching through your skull
@@steemlenn8797 that's your first thought than the axe magically flies back to the owner!
@UCed4DqjEriaXOvWV1L9TXyA I think you still have about 30s of blood still running through your head if you’re really slow
Anyone who fell to a Draven ult can relate.
Something to keep in mind about the game is that when Kratos throws the axe one handed it bounces off the enemies, but it sticks in when he throws two handed
Sticks when he puts some umph behind it
Huh... That is true
Great observation. I thought the same thing when he said that about 2 hand being harder. Also Kratos kinda turns twists into the 2 hand throw. It's almost over the shoulder instead over the head.
Or if you hold the one hand down, and unlock the move where the axe circles, and hits them multiple times, then comes down with a small explosion. Its one of my go to moves
Kratos: Can you hit it from here?
Shadiversity: We should get closer😔
I grew up in the woods. Throwing all kinds of axes. I know in the game he throws the axe one handed. But once a axe gets that big, it’s better to throw it overhead with two hands. You get more force and it’s easier to control the spin of the axe. And keep the axe head from spinning off of center.
Great video guys. Seems like the armor was tough to throw in too
Kratos does exactly that if you hold R2
I’m pretty sure that Krato’s actually throws the axe with two hands, when he charges at least. The result being an increase in accuracy/damage. But other than that I think your right 👍
I've always just used one hand throws regardless of the weight and size, but then.. I might have super strength. 😅 It feels awkward to do the two-handed throws, maybe it's just about practice, but I think it's more feasible in a real battle situation anyway, because you should have a shield or backup weapon ready once you've thrown away your axe.
Weight is kinda irrelevant to kratos
Kratos' heavy axe throw is a double handed overhead throw.
While it wasnt connecting all the time, the fact that you hit the tree with the blade almost all the time proves this works. So even if it didnt connect, this shows its possible.
Like I know he says he’s done it before but damn I was so impressed. I Went to one of those axe throwing places and learning the axe throwing technique is no joke, you have got to have skill to master that.
Let's be honest most of his throws are deadly even if they wouldn't go into the brain
A couple things I wanna mention.
The Leviathanaxe has 2 sindes! It has a smaller blade on the backside which increases the area where it will stick to the target!
Also it has a freakin pommel!
It helps to balance the axe out, soo he rotation point is further back!
The pommmel must be pretty big
It seems really logical for a large throwing weapon to have a counterbalance, it's something I think shad isn't thinking about enough
@@depressionbomb big throwing axes don't have that but they're double sided...
Does that count?
@@vadimblin seems more like it'll just make the weight centre around the blade even more so the handle will swing even more than with just one blade, which was the major problem
@Ruska Well Kratos has two throws in the game, the light and heavy throws. The heavy throw is actually overhead if I’m recalling correctly.
I am a competitive ace thrower and coach. The form is what leads to edge alignment being difficult to maintain. Having thrown axes that are 3 kilos, the baseball throw makes constancy and accuracy very hard to maintain, try squating up and keep the axe in front you to make throwing easier and more enjoyable. Enjoying the content. Keep up the good work.
I found throwing knives and darts to be the same, essentially "aiming with my elbows."
@Derek Moore I try to aim with the elbow no matter what I throw. Have used throwing a dart to help teach throwing hatchets
In real life throwing your weapon is quite situational even if you have a backup, but if you actually had the ability to recall your weapon like Kratos or Thor, that would probably make spending time perfecting your throwing skills worth it. Being able to hit enemies from several meters away without switching to a dedicated ranged weapon, and then having the ability to attack from two opposite directions at the same time when it's returning to your hand. It's probably one of my favorite magic weapon tropes because it's such a simple concept with a lot of versatility, and it looks awesome without needing to rely on flashy colors and effects. Too bad it's also the kind of magic ability that's basically impossible to recreate in real life.
Closest I'd think we could get to recalling weapons is having a wire on it to pull it back, though there'd be a fair bit of restrictions for it realistically
@@oliverrowland2725 Modern version might be a drone of some kind (probably land rather than air traversing) being able to have a gun quickly mounted to it, so it could be sent out instead of the user who then controls it.
I consider these traits fundamental to (cinematic/videogame) boomerangs, and they're part of why it's my favorite weapon in most games that have them. The only weapons I like more than boomerangs are other weapons given this property of boomerangs - Thor's Mjolnir, Thunor's flaming labrys presumably named something like Mjolnir with an Anglo accent, Captain America's shield, the cross subweapon from the Castlevania games, and so on.
Grappling hooks exist, but those are more like whips than an axe or sword or hammer.
Kratos had been throwing weapons for long time, so he don't need to actually practice the throw as if it was his first time, so he can afford to throw axe as much he wanted.
As a kid I used to throw a camping axe at an old door for fun and eventually you can get it to stick just right at any distance. But it takes a lot of time to learn that skill. Also when you try it with another axe you have to relearn because of the different proportions. though it doesn't take long if you're skilled with the first axe.
Every time I see Shad with a new blade/axe/other weapon, I get the sneaking suspicion that all this UA-cam stuff's just his cover story to his wife to cover his massive greed for sharp/pointy/bludgeoning objects.
Or he has simply found the secret for him to combine his passion and proffession together. Ergo he has the dream job.a job,where it is actually a pleasure to work at.One where you are actually paid,to do what you love doing.
@@alkirk6
True. Wish I'm like him.
@@hanzquejano7112 yup,done the same thing myself in some aspects. Currently pursuing two careers that are both aligned with my passions. One as a published author,and another as a Stand up comedian
You're not precisely wrong. He's basically making his hobby into a job.
@@SergioLeonardoCornejo That is the dream
We’ve also got to remember that the Leviathan axe most likely wasn’t intended to be used as a weapon all the time. Brok and Sindri knew Faye pretty well so they probably designed the axe to also be good for cutting down trees
Plus that’s literally the first thing we see said ax do
I don't know, it was clearly intended as a very deadly magical weapon that could rival Mjolnir. Woodcutting would likely be the least of their concerns. Also, according to some GoW: Ragnarok lore (not really a spoiler) Faye was MUCH more vicious in her fighting days than what the first game would lead you to believe.
@@ghurcbghurcb It could rival mjolnir but it was made after mjolnir, when Sindri/Brok were rather guilty about the harm they caused by giving mjolnir to the Aesir. I think a non-combat utility for the leviathan axe, so that it wasn't JUST a tool of war, was absolutely one of the intents with their creation of it.
@@ghurcbghurcb yeah, especially while fighting thor. we see from spirits in the crater that she was piiiiiiiiiiiised while fighting him, and the axe would reflect that
More specifically, many of the magical weapons in Norse mythology serve several functions. Mjolnir is a hammer that could be used for building and destroying, for an analogue.
Tyron is always a pleasure to watch😂😂The way he says boss all the time. Like a bodyguard or something 😂
He probably watched Pod in GoT.
One of the reason the horizontally thrown ax had a hard time sticking was also the fact that it was trying to enter the tree perpendicular to the grain of the wood instead of parallel with it.
When it comes to video game weapons, I’m still waiting for Shad to analyze the trick weapons from Bloodborne. It’s one of the coolest idea I’ve ever seen for video game weapons
Amen to that!
Absolutely.
Hehe, hammer go bonk
same with skallagrim
There's nothing to analyze. It's a ridiculous, nonsensical idea. Requires technology of mechanical engineering we don't have to this day and all for pretty much zero gain at best to extreme disadvantages at usual or worst.
The problem is that the camera isn't positioned over the shoulder so shad's aim was off. Joking aside it should be mentioned that Kratos grips the handle more toward the center not bottom end of the shaft.
I read his book, Shadows of the Conqueror and I was damn surprised at the quality :) very good job.
Guess I'll try it then
in my opinion its one of the best redemption stories out there especially when you think of all the things Daylen has done. now obviously at the end of the book the world has not forgiven him BUT he has enough good will and friends around him that makes him push forward.
TBH it's so good it makes me wish he would stop making youtube content and just write full-time. I want sequels. Lots and lots of sequels. New series, too.
I recently pre-ordered the comic book adaptation, but i had to really struggle, to not buy the digital version, as where i live, the shipping fee is the same price as the book, but i like to hold things in my hand, you know? Still I'm really glad to have done it and am giddily awaiting it.
Greetings from Germany.
@@stonecoldscubasteveo4827 there was a short film in the works, wasn't it?
Can we all take a moment to appreciate Tree? He's taking those hits like a boss :D
who votes Shad carves a face into it and names him?
The Leviathan Axe is easily among my favorite fictional weapon. Awesome abilities and it just looks so sick.
Also basically not an overly design fantasy weapon and basically a practical by-design if somehow you have strength like a gorilla.
@@Ilyas-ty6cy Yep. If the Dwarves put effort, they did it alright. RIP Brok the Blue Chad.
@@fenorlex1126 Yeah, he basically one of few people Kratos can call friend. He basically the great example of something like being kind and being nice it's not the same thing.
I also think that it makes a lot of sense for Kratos to be able to get it right 100% of the time and to get it to stick so deep into the target... After all this is Kratos we are talking about. He is the literal god of war, a spartan raised from birth to battle, but most importantly: He has years and years of experience with this axe that Shad just doesn't have yet... so I think that's where it comes from
Other than the fact he is a fictional character a big factor with Kratos is super strength followed by the fact Shad only has decades to practice whereas Kratos has already had hundreds if not thousands of years.
The irony? Yesterday, maybe while he was recording this, I thought "It would be cool to see Shad's thoughts on God of War Ragnarok." So haha! Epic!
That axe is definitely going to do damage to anyone that isn't a tree when it's thrown
kratos actually has a two handed throw by holding the r2 button while aiming, and for the answer of why you would need to ever throw your axe kratos can miss a million times and instantly call it back so in a scenario like that i think its actually pretty good for throwing if you are skilled enough, also love tyrant man he's so adorable.
plus sometimes he hits them with the blunt end on just so it bounces off into a position behind them. all so when he calls it back it gos right into their back.
plus on higher levels im prity sure his ricoshay moves is him just him throwing blunts just to bounce off multiple people
I feel that it's missing a Pommel, the Leviathan axe had a plethora of pommels, and even weighted ones.
The Leviathan Axe when upgraded has a kind of spike/curve on the top of the blade to give the axe extra bite/damage. Perhaps if your replica/lookalike had a spike curve it would be more effective. Great video Shad.
I love Tirant's comedic flare. And yes. Please show us the coolest way to disarm yourself by volunterily throwing your sward away 😁
I have done a lot of practice throwing a heavy bearded axe, and came to the same conclusions. A shorter handled axe is simply better for throwing.
make a tierlist of how well you can throw ALL different kinds of weapons, even maces (I'm new here so you may already have done it)
yeah, watch a old man throwing a lot of things is fun, i can watch that
I never thought that my first impulse when I started my morning would be to purchase throwing axes. Then Shad had to make this video. Good on you mate, keep up the good work!!
Shad, as someone who knows what practice is like, thank you for including the failed throw attempts! It really helps to be reminded that all of us are human and failure is an unavoidable part of DOING something, much less perfecting it (ik that wasnt the point of the video but it was nice when i realized it XD)
I threw a Leviathan Axe and tried to catch it and now i'm typing using my elbows.
I like that, in this video, the "get back" mechanic is realistic... and paid.
Let's just say, this is probably one of the best Practical knowledge channels out there (for ancient weapons)!
having fun and all, but I like the fact that you just go out and try things. if it works or not, we all learned something
I love your content Shad. I watch every video I can, and they never fail to make me smile. You are your people are just so likeable, and I can't help but feel like I'm right there, hanging out with you guys.
I have to say that this new squire has similar amount of character as Oz had. Really good find. Keep this one for sure!
I would indeed want to see a video on thrown swords! I still remember seeing that shot in Witcher where Geralt throws a sword and it would be interesting to find out whether that would end up being lethal or not.
Fantastic video!
Now imagine God of War but instead of recalling the axe you had to use the "BOY!" button every time to get it back and Atreus zooms off to find it.
When throwing batarangs (heavy shuriken-like), I've found the horizontal throw is easier backhand (if throwing right-handed, swing from left to right). This allows your elbow to lead the swing (increasing range of motion), and places your shoulder in a more neutral position.
I think a potential improvement would be a kind of spike at the top of the axe head and maybe a smaller beard to compensate. A lot of the misses were due to the top hitting first and a taller head might help. I don't know though.
Ps. Congrats on the graphic novel, it looks amazing. can't wait to get mine.
A horn would probably work well.
A flipped axe blade would be better. Instead of the axe head curving downward, if it curves upward, there's more exposed axe blade and more chances it would bite. If I design a throwing axe I will make it that way.
@@andrewsock1608 I just did and it's like a medieval European ninja star lol
Btw best way to throw a axe especially with the length and weight you are throwing it's best to take one step forward, twist your wrist(the hand holding the axe) like you are about to twirl the axe and put all your weight into your chest and arm you are about throw with, then step forward with your other foot (say if you are throwing with your right hand then step with your right foot) and hurl the axe, puts a bit more force into it with a better spin. This is how it is usually done here in Norway and how a viking would have thrown a bearded axe with the force to flip the target (usually a human) onto their back,.
This also helps when you have a old physical injury like a shoulder injury, or a lower back injury from years ago.
What are you talking about? A viking throwing an axe? when would a viking ever do that? It doesnt have any adventage towards an enemy and if you didnt hit your enemy you are stuck without a weapon.
Please stop writing shit like this, as you were some kind of historian.
First off, finally listened to your book, and found it super enjoyable, so great job there. And thanks for once again giving us an interesting and informative video about absurd weapons.
Love your videos Shad, I’m a big medieval weapons enthusiast and I love hearing your thoughts and opinions on different types of weapons. Also the progression of your armor is awesome.
There's an ancient french culture that had axes like that which was designed to be thrown and it would spin down hills like a cartwheel and it was an extremely effective weapon.
Francisca Throwing Axe
I think he showed an example image of that type of axe at the beginning. He just didn't mention it by name.
@@benkayvfalsifier3817 he actually did stumble over the name, poorly!
You know they stole that from the Native Americans, right?
@@TheTakato122 I hope you aren't serious
@Turigamot Why not? Many good ideas are stolen/shared by other ethnic groups. Fireworks, gunpowder, and ice cream were "stolen" from China. Rome stole military tactics from every opposing force they faced. I doubt there's a single ethnic group of any age that hasn't "stolen"/shared an idea from/to someone else. A good idea rarely stays hidden forever.
I love that in the time I've been watching shad, he went from "Medieval history enthusiast with an fantasy flair" to "Eccentric noble man with paid mercenaries who are absolutely done with his shit" lol, I love your videos man!
Ok, so I just realized how strong Shad is compared to average people. He is throwing an ax pretty freaking far while also in full armor. Of course... He is a dad, so... Dad strength!
It's the longbow reps
Longbows cause heckin chonk shoulders.
Shad could kill a man effortlessly... luckily (for us) he's good natured... XD
bruh an axe ranges only from 3 to 7 kg, that is the weight I literally lift at the bare minimum in my everyday life.
That moment he mocked Shad and he actually nailed it was extremely entertaining to watch. I laughed my ass off lol
I love the new guys! Their humor is perfect and they bring a good time to the channel
Just recently found ya'll and absolutely loving the vids already. Time for a binge!
Welcome aboard!
I love this concept. Been looking for something similar to leviathan axe. I just want something bigger and more badass than my smaller axes. I’ll keep looking but this axe seems pretty legit
This was a great case study in how armor type can impact combat style. Also on why starting your axe throw infront of you is so important for allowing you to start from a position of proper alignment.
Maybe, when you're doing these comparisons of throwing weapons, you should do a baseline test against the one throwing weapon that has been used around the world by pretty much every society. The javelin or throwing spear. It's cheap, simple and, unlike the throwing knife or axe, it's always pointed in the right direction. If your alternative throwing weapon doesn't offer better penetration, range or convenience of carry your fantasy hero should just carry a javelin.
True,he'll if I remember correctly, I once watched an anime,where one of the main characters, had a javelin, that magically returned after a strike.
Regretfully I can't recall the name of said anime.
Awesome video Shad! Super fun watching you guys just play around and find out cool observations about these weapons and techniques. It would be really cool to see a follow up to this on how effective the Blades of Chaos might be, both as short swords as well as thrown and swung weapons
I just watched you throw an axe at a tree for 30 minutes. I wouldn't have it any other way lol
Currently doing your book on Audible now!! On chapter 22 at the moment.
I must say for your first book you’ve certainly taken on a lot of challenges, first with a redemption arc which is extremely difficult, then with your incredibly unique world and the abilities with it.
I’d say there’s definitely some nitpicks I could make but overall I’m enjoying it and looking forward to where this story goes!!!
It gets epic! The book can have a little too much exposition sometimes but the characters and worldbuilding just get better over time.
@@wingsoffreedom3589 yeah that’s essentially my main nitpick. Like I don’t need to know the exact distance to the centimetre 🤣
Me a Lumberjack who has been to and even joined a few Lumberjack games and knows you can throw a Felling axe a very good distance, even seen a guy throw two felling axes one in each hand and hit the target.
'not really surprised, but loving the video, Hello from Norway'.
I'd be interested in a sword throwing video. I remember Skallagrim did one a while back, but I don't think he tried different sizes. I wonder if a gladius or longsword would have any significant advantages over each other.
a fun theory i have is that kratos actually used leviathan as a wood cutting axe as he is basically retired in the woods at game start, would make a lot of sense for his weapon to double as a tool or vice versa.
I always have a lot of fun with these videos Shad, thanks for your content because it is helping me through these unbeliably hard times in my life.
Real glad I'm able to help. Hope things get better for you.
@@shadiversity Thanks Shad, means a lot to me. Keep the content coming, I love both these kind of trying weapon videos and stuff about medieval times like when you explained how sieges worked and the general rules applied to them, that was super interesting
I love how much of a goof Shad can be and friends at times......
Incidentally, throwing might be a justification for the second rear edge, as if it hits just after the main edge, there's still a chance it could hit on the second edge. If it had a thrusting spike it would be even better and 15:09 wouldn't have missed.
Throwing weapons may not have been very practical in actual combat, but I'm sure it was just as much fun to do as a hobby back then as it is today. That feel when you get a nice, solid stick on your target never fails to satisfy.
With that armor on and with a huge one handed axe like that you hit almost all of the shots at least with a damaging possibility, even if they did not sink in. I think that was mad impressive 👍
You two are great together. I laughed a lot.
I just love the banter between tyranth and shad 😂
Tyranth is just such a good addition to the shadiversity team by just being cheeky against shad and giving him a bit of competition.
Love you guys!
Keep up the amazing and fun work!
I love Axe's and I'm glad god of war has brought the axe to the forefront. The bearded axe is my fav style of Axe.
shad truly is the best boss, get payed to excersise AND throw pointy objects
Low key, I would actually be interested in a sword-throwing video, even if it's just for the laughs!
As someone who does competition knife and axe throwing, if it's even relatively axe-shaped, it can be thrown. Hell, it's almost like it's made to be thrown. Sure, the handle is a bit long for it, but that just means you change your stance and form a bit to fit it, otherwise it's perfectly fine.
In fairness there are special moves in the last game where the axe magically attacks targets on its own. So maybe it has some kind of magical aim assist enchantment
It probably has some kind of aim assist considering it always returns to Kratos hand handle first
All magical weapons help with aim
Yes I'm actually annoyed that you tune isn't showing me your videos as often, I love your enthusiasm, how the word tumbled out of you with the sheer joy you have in the subject
I was totally “axing” for this video. :) I will leave now… keep up the good work, Shad.
I don't know why, but Shad throwing an axe against a tree and screaming "AYEEEEEE!" everytime he hits and "woooo..." everytime he misses brings out "group of australian youngsters doing mischievous acts" vibes
I mean (spoiler for game )
Kratos wife is a giant (giants in god of war are not all giant just in comparison to humans some are 2meters and some are around 100meters tall) and also was pretty strong so it makes sense that the dwarfs made it bigger for her and also made it heavier.
She also fought Thor 1v1 to a stalemate, so she was pretty strong even by godly standards. No wonder Kratos respected her so much.
I just started playing Dad of Boy again (on PC this time!) and I was pleased that the algorithm gods saw fit to put this in my queue. I love your videos. Much love from Minnesota in the US.
Oh God one of those scam accounts tried to talk at me.
I think the main reason why axes like these werent for throwing isnt that it wouldnt work, its that these are large axes meant as a primary weapon. And yo do NOT want to throw away your primary weapon in a fight when it cant magically come back!
(and also that, well, axes like these werent really used on the battlefield)
if people could enchant axes like this to magically fly back to you then they definitely would have
You need 3 magically returning axes.
One flying towards your oponent,
One returning and one in hand, just in case you need to do melee.
"Sir, when are we ever going to need how to throw a blade?"
PUT YOUR HAND ON THAT WALL PRIVATE!
...what?
😂❤
I gotta say that if you threw this axe at someone… it doesn’t seem like it even matters.
From the way even the handle hit the tree, that’d right fuck you up if it hit you in the face.
Axe blade or not
Man, I don't know why. But each time Shad reviews his throws, I keep thinking on reflex that he'd put his hand out-expecting the axe to fly back to him like the Leviathan does. Hahahaha
I don't know if this has been said yet, or not, but there is actually a technique to where you hold the axe on the handle when you throw it to adjust the spin speed.
finally got around to Listening to Shadow of The Conqueror. Really good, Waiting on a sequel. Since its supposed to be book 1.
I think this proves why edge alignment is important boy.
UA-cam has recommended your video and i absolutely love the content and.....more importantly the content stuck me to the videos till the end! A subscription totally worth!
A sword throwing vid would be rad as hell XD
I'm not always on board for these test videos, but this one was great. Openly acknowledging own limitations, acknowledging that other, more skilled individuals would be getting better results - even if it's implicit in other videos, it's refreshing to see it be openly said.
Let's take something into account. Sticking a tree vs sticking say a more squishy organic target. As long as that blade made contact it would do significant damage
And stagger a person long enough to pull your sword out and finish the fight
I love this video so much, it reminds me of when I was younger and started throwing all sorts of objects at an old dead tree in backyard, from machetes, knives, screw drivers and tomahawks. Now that I'm older I'm still throwing but exclusively in the World Axe Throwing League.
Hey Shad! Love your work. i was wondering if you would like to test how well chaos blades might function as well. we see Kratos whipping and throwing them around with ease.
I’m enjoying watching you practice your axe throwing techniques. Every time it sticks in good and deep, it’s a rush of endorphins. Great job. Like the God of War himself.
While I appreciate the test, a tree is kinda inconsistent target. I'd recommend getting one of those zombie-head torsos, or something similiar, if possible
I feel so anxious watching you throw that even tho I know it probably won't hit you
I don’t know if you have anything interesting to tell us about Javelins, but can you please make a video where you (any your cute intern boy) just throw them at stuff?
I’ve been watching your channel for over a year now and every time I click on a video I get so pumped and yet jealous cause the stuff you do has always been a big passion/interest of mine! How does someone get into this field of medieval history and sword play?! Also keep making awesome videos!!
you don't need the axe to stick into wood every time. wouldn't want to get hit by the blade in any angle
That running in 1 Frame at 16:23 is caught me off guard. 🤣🤣
I'd say it is a good weapon to be thrown, provided you have practiced with it like throwing knifes or tomahawks
18:00 lol at the lackey, good job lackey keep shining in that spotlight! woo
Boy
You don't know everything boy
Shad about to call his squire boy
I'd imagine a sword would require a non-spin or sideways-spin throw because of how they are weighted, but it'd probably be interesting to test and see