Atlatl weight used by Native Americans. Dr. Schirmer of Minnesota State University, Mankato visited 2 July 2013 and determined that this is a Native American atlatl weight.The weight was mounted on the throwing stick to add considerable mechanical advantage in throwing a light weight spear called a "dart." It is believed that the atlatls were used worldwide before the advent of the bow and arrow. There is some evidence that the Incas and Mayas used atlatls, because launching its high-speed dart could penetrate the armor of the Spanish invaders. Currently displayed in the flat exhibit case located on the museum balcony timeline.
