When was atlatl invented

Every year in June, Meadowcroft teams up with these atlatl enthusiasts to hold a competition at the museum. Even if this is the first time you have heard the word atlatl, you can try it for yourself and even enter the competition. Check out our events calendar to learn more about our next atlatl competition. Close up of an atlatl.

Beginner atlatl participants during the Atlatl competition at Meadowcroft. Share on Facebook Share. Share on Twitter Tweet. Share on Pinterest Share. Send email Mail. Jump to: navigation , search.

The word "atlatl" comes from the Aztec language Nahuatl. Lepper, Bradley T. Wilmington, Ohio, Orange Frazer Press, Laird, Roderick D. The atlatl is a launching stick. It increases the velocity of the dart and the force of impact on the target. It was superior to the older technology and was the weapon of choice for millennia, supplanted only by the invention of the bow and arrow, which occurred at least 1, years ago in North America.

Who invented the atlatl? They probably came to North America with the people who crossed the Bering Land Bridge about 15, BC, or when people came in boats maybe. What is a spear thrower called? Spear-thrower, also called Throwing-stick, or Atlatl, a device for throwing a spear or dart usually consisting of a rod or board with a groove on the upper surface and a hook, thong, or projection at the rear end to hold the weapon in place until its release.

Who used atlatls? The same thing happened in North America starting around BC. What replaced the atlatl? The atlatl likely came to America with the earliest Paleoindian cultures. It remained the main hunting weapon until it was replaced by the bow and arrow during the Late Woodland period.

What is the benefit of an atlatl? It is used to increase the force and distance of a spear throw. It is a unique type of projectile point. Can you hunt with an atlatl? Currently only two states, Missouri and Alabama, allow people to use atlatls for deer hunting.