Scientific Reports (Aug 2023)

Atlatl use equalizes female and male projectile weapon velocity

  • Michelle R. Bebber,
  • Briggs Buchanan,
  • Metin I. Eren,
  • Robert S. Walker,
  • Dexter Zirkle

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-40451-8
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 13, no. 1
pp. 1 – 9

Abstract

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Abstract The atlatl is a handheld, rod-shaped device that employs leverage to launch a dart, and represents a major human technological innovation. One hypothesis for forager atlatl adoption over its presumed predecessor, the thrown javelin, is that a diverse array of people could achieve equal performance results, thereby facilitating inclusive participation of more people in hunting activities. We tested this hypothesis via a systematic assessment of 2160 weapon launch events by 108 people who used both technologies. Our results show that, unlike the javelin, the atlatl equalizes the velocity of female- and male-launched projectiles. This result indicates that a javelin to atlatl transition would have promoted a unification, rather than division, of labor. Moreover, our results suggest that female and male interments with atlatl weaponry should be interpreted similarly.