How to Make a Simple Atlatl

Last Updated: March 29, 2019

Atlatl means "spear thrower" in Nahuatl, the language of the Aztec. Atlatl are an ancient, yet extremely effective, hunting tool.^{[1]
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Research source} An experienced thrower can hurl a 7 foot (2.1 m) dart (fletched spear) well over 100 yards (91.4 m). When Cortez the Conquistador and his men invaded and captured Tenochtitlan, modern day Mexico City, the Aztec were able to kill many men with darts from the Atlatl. It even pierced their armor. Nowadays, many high tech Atlatls are available for hundreds of Dollars, and many states allow their hunting. However, if you want to take up the sport the traditional way, why not do like the ancients, and make your very own.?

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Using a Hook-Shaped Branch

1
Find a straight branch with a hook shape on the end of it. The main branch should be the length of the user's forearm and hand. The end with the small hook will be where the spear attaches to.
2
Cut the hook shape down to be about one inch long and one quarter inch wide.

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3
Now you can sand down, add a handle, decorate, or apply laquer and paint.
4
Finally, attach the store bought dart to hook, and you're ready!

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Using a Straight Branch

1
Find a straight branch. The main branch should be the length of the user's forearm and hand. No hook this time.
2
At one end, take a knife and split down the middle about three inches.
3
Find a small twig and carefully shape it into a wedge.
4
Now, force the wedge into the split from step #2. Force it down until it separates the two sides of the stick about one inch.
5
Leaving the wedge in the stick, drill two small holes in the stick, one on each split end, down about one half inch from the top.
6
Thread heavy duty string through the two holes, and secure it so that it forms a "bridge" from one split to the other split.
7
Store bought darts and the arrow nocks. Glue one arrow nock down each of the hollow dart ends.
8
Now you can sand down, add a handle, decorate, or apply laquer and paint to the atlatl.
9
Finally, attach the knocked dart to the string bridge, and you're ready!

Community Q&A

Question

Can I use a steel rod for an arrow?

Community Answer

I think so. I prefer using a wooden dowel, but steel should resist rain and impacts better. You probably can't throw it as far, but it should still work.

Warnings

These weapons can penetrate metal, so obviously, be careful!

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Check local regulations on hunting and use.

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