CJ’s Hangout offers smashtacular fun

It’s supervised, safe and smashtacular. That’s the apt description CJ’s Hangout offers for their brand-new business offering axe throwing and rage rooms.

The business opened Aug. 13, only 10 minutes out of Steinbach on Quarry Oaks Road.

Owned by Colin and Jennie Williams, the seven axe throwing lanes and two rage rooms represent what is just the beginning of a larger entertainment activity complex.

While the idea had been discussed for some time, Colin explained it wasn’t until March that they were able to rapidly move forward. That’s because they acquired the former home of D&G Archery, a building they remodeled for their purposes.

Axe throwing was the first activity on their agenda, and Colin explained it’s something he always loved.

Jennie said it fit the rural setting as well.

“It’s country life, farm life,” she said. “That’s what’s around here. What kid, what farmer hasn’t thrown an axe or thrown a tool at something?”

The nearest axe throwing locations are in Winnipeg.

Rage rooms are rare in the province, with this being the first permanent one in the area. (Popup rage rooms have come to Winnipeg in the past).

“Rage rooms are where you can go and get your frustrations out,” Jennie explained. “When you become frustrated you tend to take it out on people and the things around you, so this gives you a safe area to go and break objects and get that frustration out and to clear your mind.”

People using rage rooms are given protective gear, an assortment of objects to smash and a choice of weapons. They put their music of choice on a Bluetooth speaker, choose from bats, crowbars and sledgehammers and smash cups, plates, vases, printers, screens, dressers, coffee pots, toasters and more.

CJ’s Hangout is also hoping to establish league play for axe throwing, something Colin said is big in the U.S.

Safety is the most important factor for the business.

Guests are given instruction, and coaches observe and offer guidance as required.

Colin said it’s a great activity for first timers as well.

“Usually within the first session we will be getting you to stick,” he said. “When you leave, I want you to feel good that you hit the bullseye and had a good time.”

Various size axes and machetes are available for throwers.

CJ’s Hangout is open to walk-ins and groups can be reserved.

As word gets out, Jennie said interest is growing.

“I already have quite a few people inquiring about parties and corporate events,” she said.

With a capacity of 65, the facility can be a great destination for birthday parties, bachelor parties or corporate events.

She said many are excited about the experience, saying a group of teenagers who had arrived the day of the interview were excited to return.

“They had a blast,” she said. “They said they definitely would be back, and they took some business cards and were going to hand them out to their friends.”

CJ’s Hangout has also established a website at cjshangout.ca and are active on Facebook.

Jennie said the facility is open to all those age 10 and up, adding they wanted to create an activity that could be truly inter-generational.

“We want a place where the teenagers and adults can combine together and socialize because lots of times we don’t have that anymore,” she said.

While snacks are available, guests are also welcome to bring in outside food. In fact, delivery and take out menus for Santa Lucia are available on site.

While the business only just began operating, the couple has plans for an expansion, seeking to get approval on a 200 ft. by 150 ft. addition.

That will be home to rock climbing, mini-golf, laser tag and a golf simulator.

Jennie said it took a lot of work to get the business up and running.

“Now that it’s here it’s very exciting,” she said.

CJ’s Hangout is open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Sunday is available for group reservations only.