How do you make atlatls?

[Russ]

How do you make atlatls? Im new to this stuff and I want to make atlatls along with bows  so I was wondering how you make them

Russ

[Azmdted]

Russ,

Atlatls are fairly easy to make, depending upon the style and historical authenticity you may want.  If you want a historically accurate one then you need to check into the period and locale of interest.  For me, I'm interested in the western style which culminated in the Basketmaker atlatls of the southwest.  Check out this website for tutorials and information:  http://basketmakeratlatl.com/  He also has a great book with a very good discussion on how to make atlatls common to the Four Corners region which I recommend.

If you just want to make a modern functional atlatl there are plenty of videos on youtube.  Good luck, have fun.

BREAK:

Now to see if I can answer all the questions on the reply page in order for this to post..... three tries and I think I may have it.  Is it always like this?

[willie]

atlatls are ez, good darts are more work

http://www.thudscave.com/npaa/

[Hawkdancer]

A good stick with a bit of spring, a hook to seat the dart, a grip area to fit your hand, patience, and a bit of luck!  See Willie's comment!  The devil is in the details and the darts!  Be prepared to answer a lot of questions if you are on a public or club range!
Hawkdancer

[willie]

Is it always like this?

just for the first few posts

[Azmdted]

Thanks.

[Hawkdancer]

Forgot to say, post lots of pictures and don't be afraid to ask questions!  Check the archaeology collections at various universities, and visit them if you can.  Also check any Native American(tribal) collections you can find.  I saw a very nice atlatl and darts at the Leech Lake Casino in Walker, MN several years ago but haven't been able to upload the pictures.  May have lost the camera!  How's your project going?
Hawkdancer