Throwing With An Atlatl
| Field | Hunting, warfare |
| Went Obsolete | With the invention of the bow |
| Made Obsolete By | Superior effectiveness of bow and arrow |
| Knowledge Assumed | Minimal |
| When useful | Practically never |
The atlatl (or spear thrower, woomera, and known by other names as well) was a nearly universal tool used to give a thrown spear greater range and power. It consists of an approximately forearm length of wood or bone, with a hook or socket at one end and a handle at the other. A light spear constructed to fit the hook or socket is placed on top, and the atlatl is used to give extra force to the throw.
The atlatl became obsolete as its users discovered the superior range and power of the bow and arrow. While an atlatl and darts were more easily constructed, the bow and arrow were sufficiently superior that the extra effort was considered worthwhile.
An atlatl could conceivably be useful in a wilderness survival situation, if it became necessary to hunt a large animal on short notice.
It can also be useful in hunting in West Virginia because you get a few days to a week extra before the bow hunters get a turn.
