Quick Draw Rules

Quick draw is a head-to-head bracketed game that can be played by single or double elimination, depending on the number of participants and available time. All competitors must register before the bracket commences. No changes to the bracket are allowed once it has started.

To compete, throwers will need one knife that adheres to the general Blade Aces regulations and a sheath affixed to a belt at the waist or lower. There are ongoing discussions regarding how much of the knife must be in the sheath; generally, the entire blade or at least half the knife (if the blade is less than half the length of the knife) must be sheathed.

Two throwers will be called to face off, with the order determined by the randomized bracket. The foul line is 3 meters. The starting position requires the thumb of the throwing hand to be placed on the thrower’s collarbone. Matches can be conducted in two ways:

  • The range master will confirm readiness by asking both throwers if they are prepared, followed by “Set” and then “Go” at a random interval. The point is awarded to the first person to stick a knife in the 3 ring or better. If no points are scored, it counts as 0-0. Line judges will be present on both sides, using cameras for slow-motion verification if necessary.
  • An electronic version utilizes a light instead of verbal commands. Sensors on the target automatically indicate the winner, which the range master verifies the knife is within the 3 ring.

In the event of equipment malfunction or throws too close to verify even with camera assistance, the throw will be considered void and rethrown. Matches continue until a best of 3 is achieved, meaning whoever leads after 3 throws wins and advances in the bracket. If throwers tie after 3 throws, they continue until someone scores.

Matches proceed through the bracket until a winner is determined, with additional matches to decide second and third place.

Participants with unconventional sheath setups should consult Blade Aces to ensure legality. If deemed an unfair advantage, it will be prohibited.

Throwers’ thumbs must remain on their collarbones until “Go” is indicated.