Atlatl is an individual activity where participants use an ancient wooden throwing device to launch darts or arrows at targets. Competitions consist of challenges of distance and accuracy.

An atlatl is a primitive device used to launch darts. It was the most effective weapon of the ancient world, prior to the bow and arrow. Use consists of loading a dart onto the bearing surface, then throwing in an overhand motion. Today the atlatl is used for sport hunting and accuracy/distance competitions.

Use an atlatl to launch a dart for sport hunting and or accuracy/distance competitions.

A dart is placed on the bearing surface of the atlatl and launched by the thrower using an overhand motion, similar to the throwing of a football.

The atlatl was first used by primitive man 27,000 years ago. Capable of killing even the largest of animals, the atlatl was the most effective weapon of its time. It was replaced in Europe by the advent of the bow and arrow, but still used in the Americas during colonial times. Today it is used in sport hunting and accuracy/distance competitions. A large competition is held annually in Rhode Island.

Atlatl
Darts

The atlatl, by nature, is a dangerous weapon used. As such, extreme caution should be used at all times.

Throwing an atlatl accurately requires the thrower to have strong arms and shoulders, and good hand-eye coordination. These can be attained through weight training and activities that involve aim and follow through, such as darts.

Atlatl - a tool that uses leverage to achieve greater velocity in dart throwing; consists of a shaft with a cup or a spur, which may be integrated into the weapon or made separately and attached; modern improvements include finger loops, flexible shafts and stone balance weights

Dart - projectile resembling a spear or large arrow, usually measuring four to nine feet

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atlatl