Reviewing The Atlatl Hooks of Intihuasi Cave (Argentina): Implications For Advancing The Study of South American Spear-Thrower Technology

Abstract

Projectile points are among the most well-preserved tools in South American archaeology,providing crucial insights into ancient weapon systems. However, accurately determiningwhether a projectile point was used for a dart or an arrow has proven difficult when elementsof the system are missing. This article reviews four hooks, interpreted as spear-throwerengagingspurs from Intihuasi Cave in central Argentina, which are closely associated withatlatl-delivered projectile points. The study examines raw materials, basic hook shapes, andmetric attributes, classifying the hooks into typological groups. The hafting system ishypothesized based on the morphology of the hooks’ cross-section and comparisons with otherSouth American archaeological spear-throwers. The potential classification of three hooks asatlatl spurs is questioned and tested through experimentation. Additionally, a newly identifiedtype of bullet-shaped atlatl spur is highlighted, contributing to our understanding of thesophisticated hunting and warfare tools used by ancient South American foragers.