I think it is crazy that some people preferred throwing axes to javelins. To my understanding, javelin is easier to make, easier to throw, flies further, and the javelin thrower has almost no chance to fail the throw the same way that an axe thrower can, as in hitting with the handle. Also, javelins pierce further, right? So it would also do more damage and were harder to remove.
As the title says, why did some people prefer to use a throwing axe?
I have no source on this but I seem to remember reading that a thrown axe has a reasonable chance to bounce and bounce erratically.
Remember the purpose of javelins and throwing axes isn't primarily to kill enemy soldiers but disrupt a formation - either a charge or a shield wall. Tripping over a bouncing axe haft does just as much to disrupt a running soldier or horse as hitting them with the blade.