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Discussion Membership
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Atlatl The physics of the atlatl.
Both the atlatl and dart are springs that store energy. As the arm moves forward, both will flex and, if properly tuned, will spring back at the point of release, imparting the maximum amount of power. Weights (called banner stones) can be added to the atlatl to adjust the flex timing and properly shaped weights can actually help to silence the sound of the rushing atlatl. Because the atlatl is essentially a lever that doubles the length of
the thrower's arm, it can easily deliver 200 times as much power and 6 times
the range as a dart thrown like a traditional spear. Even with the increased
mass of a normal spear, the atlatl-thrown dart clearly outpowers the
spear. A 5 oz dart can be thrown at 100 mph and have as much impact as an arrow
fired from a 60 lb compound bow. ** To watch a basic animation of an Atlatl being thrown, click on the link below. ** http://www.beringia.com/03/03maina1b.html |
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