Aztec Warfare: Imperial Expansion and Political Control
Author(s): Ross Hassig
Year: 1988
Summary
J. Whittaker: Compiled from various sources. Atlatl predates Aztecs, although some myth claims they invented it, or credits god Opochtli. Surviving examples often ornate, perhaps for ceremonial occasions, ca. 2 feet long with hook and groove. Grips with loops, holes, or pegs. [Poor photo shows elaborate atlatl with apparently simple grip; codex drawing shows peg grips on atlatls used against Spanish] Darts made of oak and fletched, a variety of points used. Shown in art carried in hand, not quiver. Spanish sources say could penetrate armour. Suggests range over 55 meters, 60% more thrust than unaided spear [but all this is from old experiments of Browne, Howard, Peets]. Bows and slings also used in warfare.
Macuahuitl (obsidian edged wooden sword) also described, none survive, but 19th C illustration of one in Madrid armory does, and lots of contemporary illustrations.
Atlatl probably used as armies closed for hand to hand combat, after bow and sling barrage.
Cite this Record
Aztec Warfare: Imperial Expansion and Political Control. Ross Hassig. Norman, Oklahoma: University of Oklahoma Press. 1988 ( tDAR id: 423364)
Keywords
Spatial Coverage
min long: -117.122; min lat: 14.551 ; max long: -86.739; max lat: 32.718 ;
Individual & Institutional Roles
Contact(s): EXARC Experimental Archaeology Collection Manager
Record Identifiers
ExArc Id(s): 10175
Notes
Rights & Attribution: The information in this record was originally compiled by Dr. Roeland Paardekooper, EXARC Director.