THE ATLATL
The Atlatl, or spear thrower, is a two-piece weapon system, a throwing stick
and a dart (arrow). The throwing stick varies in length from 18 to 26 inches and
is about 1/2 inch in diameter. There is a hook on one end and usually a stone
weight located slightly below the hook. The stone weight, called a counter
weight, is located at a position that adds maximum energy to the dart at the
time of release. The hook may be carved bone or a wood protrusion, and fits into
a shallow depression in the end of the dart. The dart varies in length from 3 to
7 feet and consists of two sections (sometimes it may be a single shaft). A
removable foreshaft has a stone, bone, or shell point hafted on one end. The
other section, usually of some type cane, may be fletched (has feathers) or not
fletched. The dart is launched by holding the weapon in a raised position above
the shoulders while ensuring the dart is horizontal during the throw.
The approximate date for the introduction of the Atlatl into North America
is controversial. Carbon 14 dating has established that the weapon system was
used in Europe as early as 30,000 BC, had been introduced into North America by
12,500 BC, and was common throughout North America by 8,000 BC. Recent
discoveries indicate introduction into North America was much earlier than this
date; however, debate continues as to the exact date.
This weapon preceded the Bow and Arrow by thousands of years. Recent
research established introduction of the Bow and Arrow into West central
Louisiana about 700 AD.
The Atlatl is a unique system, using select components and counter weights
to achieve maximum energy. The dart and throwing stick are both constructed of
flexible materials. The flex in these wood components, and the mass of the
counter weight increases the energy to the dart as it leaves the hook on the
throwing stick. Modern day replicas, preserved Atlatl parts found in caves, and
the use of computer models, indicate the early craftsman was aware of the
necessity to use flexible components and exact placement of the counter weight
to maximize the capability of the system.
The interest in the weapon system has increased in the last few years
resulting in the formation of the World Atlatl Association (WAA). Members
sponsor annual events open to all individuals interested in mastering the skill
of throwing darts at fixed targets or hunting. These individuals have
demonstrated the ability to consistently hit a 9-inch target at 40 yards. The
effectiveness of the system is recorded in early history. Written accounts
report the darts ability to penetrate the armor worn by the Conquistadors as
they explored Central America. The presence of an individual with an Atlatl
during these encounters resulted in panic among the intended target victims.
There are many questions about the history of the Atlatl. We do know the
weapon appeared about 30,000 BC in Europe, and then as early as 12,500 BC in
North America. The Atlatl had a wide distribution since the dart points
(arrowheads) may be found throughout the world. The unmodified weapon is still
used in New Guinea and Australia. The Atlatl was certainly one of man's greatest
inventions in the struggle for survival.
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fore shaft
main shaft
fletching
hook
throwing stick
counter weight
handle
References:
Fogleman, Gary L. "All About The Atlatl", Fogleman Publishing Co., 1997.
Turbotville, PA. 17772-9599. ISBN: 0-941777-80-4.
Clubb, Leni. "World Atlatl Association", PO Box 56, Ocotillo, CA. 92259
Fogleman, Gary L. "Indian Artifact Magazine", RD 1, Box 240, Turbotville, PA.
17772.
National Geographic Magazine, Vol. 192, No. 4, October 1997.
Official Journal of National Geographic Society, Wash., D. C.
Ortega, Bob. "Nifty Spear Thrower Aztecs Called 'Atlatl' Makes
Comeback". Wall Street Journal, Tuesday, October 24, 1995.
Briggs 2002
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