Wasn't that ancient throwing stick called an atlatl(sp?)?
Paul in Portland OR
On 1/3/2014 12:24 PM, Moose wrote:
> On 1/2/2014 4:07 PM, Chuck Norcutt wrote:
>> What's the blue thing next to Tom? A ball throwing stick?
>
> An adaptation of the physics of the throwing sticks that allowed humans to
> wipe out the big game in No. America. Now
> used to entertain dogs and their owners. :-)
>
> With decent muscle power behind the greatly increased lever arm, light
> objects may be thrown much higher/farther than by
> arm alone.
>
> It's common in literature, movies, etc. to picture spear equipped man as
> kinda puny. The spear throwers in those
> cultures that developed throwing sticks were fearsome hunters and warriors.
>
> Some, at least, used shafts that mounted detachable points. The shaft was
> recovered, a new point mounted and driven deep
> into the prey. Semi automatic weapons. A hunting party so equipped could
> apparently bring down animals like
> mammoths/mastodons fairly easily.
>
> I saw a TV show where guys (probably 'scientists') tried out throwing sticks.
> Even with just a few practice throws, the
> difference in distance and power was amazing.
>
> Moose Don't Fetch
>
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