Native American throwing stick, 1871, from Nahuatl (Aztecan) atlatl "spear-thrower."

A tool used by prehistoric hunters to throw projectile weapons such as spears and darts. It consisted of a long, hollowed-out rod made from bone or wood, with a hook at one end and a handle at the oth [..]

an early weapon that increased both the force and distance that a spear could be thrown, used primarily for large game

An atlatl or “spear thrower” is a tool used to throw or fling a dart shaft. The long shaft of the atlatl acts as an arm extension and results in a more powerful throw than the human arm alone could accomplish. Atlatls were generally used in southern California prior to the Bow and Arrow (see below). Although atlatls were typically made out of wood [..]

An Aztec term for spear-thrower; a wooden device with a handle at one end and a hook or spar at the other end that fits into a concavity at one end of the spear shaft. In North America, atlatls were replaced circa 1500 B.P. by the bow and arrow. Bedrock (mortar) Milling Station

spear-thrower, used with a spear to make the spear travel farther and with more force

A short stick with a top hook on one end and finger grips on the other used for hand-propelling large darts to increase range and power. Atlatls become increasing popular in the Archaic Period.

Spear thrower; used in most parts of North America before the advent of the bow and arrow.

a wood or bone shaft implement that is held in one hand and used to propel a spear. The tool functions as a lever, giving greater thrust and distance.

A primitive hand-held device used for throwing a spear.