Prehistoric pew-pew Ranged combat's ancient twist

Recent scientific research has led to a groundbreaking discovery that humans may have been utilizing ranged weapons as far back as 31,000 years ago, which is significantly earlier than previously believed. This finding was possible through ballistic analysis on ancient flint projectile heads found at a prehistoric hunting site in Belgium. The study, led by a team at the University of Liège's TraceoLab, suggests that these early humans likely employed spearthrowers to hunt, which could greatly increase the force and distance of a thrown spear. The survival of flint projectile tips, unlike the organic parts of the weapons, provides valuable insight into ancient hunting practices. This revelation sheds new light on human technological evolution and how early innovations paved the way for modern tactics in war and hunting.

A spearthrower, sometimes known as an atlatl, is a tool that acts as a lever to extend the arm's reach, allowing the user to throw a spear with more force and velocity. It typically consists of a long shaft with a hook or socket where the spear's base is placed. When the spearthrower is swung, its design maximizes leverage and speed, enabling the projectile to travel a greater distance with higher impact.

The use of spearthrowers represents a significant leap in prehistoric weapon technology, crucial for early human survival and hunting strategies. Similar tools are portrayed in various modern media such as the videogame Horizon: Forbidden West where the protagonist uses a "spike thrower," highlighting an interesting connection between ancient technology and contemporary entertainment interpretation.