Spear-thrower

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Spear-thrower

A spear-thrower or atlatl (Nahuatl: ahtlatl) is a tool that uses leverage to achieve greater velocity in spear-throwing, and includes a shaft with a cup or a spur at the end that holds the butt end of the spear. The spear-thrower is held in one hand, gripped near the end farthest from the cup. The spear is thrown by the action of the upper arm and wrist. The throwing arm together with the atlatl acts as a lever. The spear-thrower is a low-mass, fast-moving extension of the thrower's arm, allowing the thrower to impart a much greater speed and distance to the spear than if it were thrown by hand alone.

History

Spear-throwers have been used by human societies around the world since the Upper Paleolithic period, with the earliest secure evidence coming from several sites in France dating to about 17,000 years ago. They were most commonly used by hunter-gatherers before the advent of the bow and arrow. In addition to their use in hunting, spear-throwers were also employed in warfare by various cultures until the arrival of more advanced weaponry.

Design and Operation

The design of a spear-thrower can vary from a simple straight piece of wood to more elaborate designs incorporating bone, antler, or ivory. The end of the spear-thrower that holds the spear can be a simple cup shape or a more complex spur design that hooks into a corresponding notch in the spear shaft. The length of the spear-thrower also varies, but generally, longer designs provide greater leverage and thus greater throwing speed and distance.

The operation of a spear-thrower involves several steps. The user places the butt of the spear into the spear-thrower's cup or spur, grips the spear-thrower with one hand, and with the spear balanced in the other hand, the user then performs a throwing motion. This action leverages the length of the spear-thrower to increase the velocity of the spear upon release.

Cultural Significance

Spear-throwers were more than just hunting tools; they held significant cultural value in many societies. For example, in the Aztec civilization, the atlatl was considered a symbol of power and prestige and was often depicted in art and mythology. In Australia, the Aboriginal people developed a unique version of the spear-thrower known as the woomera, which was an integral part of their culture and hunting practices.

Modern Use

Today, spear-throwers are primarily used in sport and recreation, with enthusiasts and historical reenactors keeping the ancient skill alive. They are also studied by archaeologists and anthropologists interested in understanding the technologies and lifeways of past human societies.

See Also

• Projectile
• Bow and arrow
• Hunting weapon