More Paleolithic Technology in the Shop

I recently finished another Paleolithic inspired spear thrower (a.k.a. atlatl). This came about due to some throwing over the past year that re-energized my feelings about this technology and it’s sporting aspects. As usual for this type of project, I made several at once since the tools were at hand. Here’s a quick rundown on the process of connecting an antler hook to a wooden handle.

DSC_0002 (13) — I cut the antler and rough out a notch for the hook. A few hours soaking in water will soften the cancellous core for easy working.

DSC_0001 (11) — Drilling can easily be done on the softened antler with a narrow knife, stone flake, or tapered drill bit.

DSC_0003 (10) — Once the hole is drilled (I take it down to about 3/8 inch or a little thicker) the handle can be roughly whittled, testing periodically for fit.

DSC_0002 (14) — Argh! A moment of distraction means the snap of a stone bit!

DSC_0005 (10) — A process of trial and error will eventually make a tight joint.

DSC_0007 (8) — Cleaning of the shoulders of the joint makes for a much neater look and solid connection.

DSC_0008 (3) — If the fit is tight, the drying cancellous tissue in the horn sticks surprisingly well. However, I want this to be maintenance-free for the owner so a drop of wood glue will insure decades of strength. Now the slow and tedious shaping can commence.

DSC_0001 (10) — Antler hook after shaping.

Hickory handle after being painted with red ochre. — Here is the hickory handle after being painted with red ochre.

And, for mine, I added a turk's head knot in vegetable-tanned leather to keep hand placement consistent. — And, for mine, I added a turk’s head knot in vegetable-tanned leather to keep hand placement consistent.

My favorite style is the Western European Upper Paleolithic “hammer-handle” style thrower. It works well with heavier darts and is a solid companion.

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A Gallery of Some Past Projects

Bodhrans.

Elk leg sinews dried and ready for processing.

An overview of traveling gear. I see this format on the web a lot so I’m stealing the style from far batter photographers than I.

Bodhrans.

Replicated woven sandals from the Southern High Plains and the greater Southwest. Produced from narrow-leaf yucca.

A little walnut oil brings out the grain.

Willow pack basket I made several years ago. The straps were obviously new then.

Design was kept as short as possible for transport. The cross bolt where the arm hinges is a salvaged bolt from an old truck spare tire holder.

The holdfasts in place, holding nothing in particular.

The small rucksack with the portmanteau attached.

Mountain dulcimer.

Or just click the image to get to the gallery.

Tools, clockwise from lower left: large awl, sewing awl, rivercane needle case, bone toothpick, sewing needles in center.

My traveling bucksaw.

The bench’s small size will allow it to pack easily into the truck, even holding items in the tills.

Higher, more ergonomic table.

Low-resolution selfie from a morning hike.

The author with his antler-fork walking stick and his dog begging for a walk.

Taking a break.

My Portmanteau. 18th Century style, it has become my favorite overnight bag.

Dopp kit and some leather working tools I use to create items like this.

The sacred connection.

Flame maple neck, walnut rim.

My personal favorite (at the moment).

Paleotool at Rabbitstick, Rexburg, Idaho

The little table has many miles on it now and doesn’t look this pretty at all. I’m actually in the midst of refinishing it and will post pictures sometime soon.