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Native American Spears
For many Native American tribes warfare was equally a physical and spiritual
experience. Their choices of weaponry included clubs, hatchets, bows and arrows,
spears, lances and knives. The Native American spears had shafts made of wood
while the tips could be metal copper in particular. Flint and obsidian were
the other materials used to craft the tip of Native American spears. The material
used for the tip of the spear varied depending upon the area where the tribes
lived. The length of spears used in battle was around eight to ten feet. Those
used for hunting were twice this length and hence, unsuitable for battle.
As other methods of warfare gained popularity the Native American spears
became more symbolic than useful. Some spears used for ceremonial purposes
or in dances are decorated with leather and feathers. The braves had their
own customized spears. Another use for the Native American spears was for
fishing in the many lakes and streams. Winter and spring were the best
times for this kind of spear fishing. A tip with three prongs was used
to catch the smaller fish. In spring spear fishing was done at night while
in winter it was more like the ice fishing we see today. But not all tribes
practiced spear fishing.
Today, many people have Native American spears in their homes as decorative
pieces. There are many organizations working for the tribes that supply
original, handcrafted products like spears, masks and blankets. Another
place to find authentic Native American goods are the many powwows that
are held regularly at different venues all over the country. Buying at these
places ensures that you are getting original stuff for a reasonable price
since there is no need for middlemen. While buying online or through stores,
you end up paying extra in the form of the retailer’s cut of the
profits.
Joseph Paige © 2006
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