Piercing tools include bows and arrows, lances, and spears. They are all tools that cause injury by piercing the flesh with a metal or stone point. Piercing tools were used for both hunting and combat and were adapted from their original form to be used on horseback. Bows became shorter and smaller than those used by hunters on foot. Lances became longer than traditional spears and were thrown underarm while riding.

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Spears-throwers or the “atlatl” appear in the archaeological record as early as 13,000 years ago. A shaft of wood with a groove that accommodated the spear, the atlatl was an extra joint and extension for the arm. It enabled hunters to effectively kill game and enemies at a safer distance and could also be used one-handed from a canoe. It was a lethal weapon when used by a skilled hunter or warrior.

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