African Yaka? Bow.

[Bill M]

Originally Posted by Nonoy Tan

In my country, the Philippines, we have at least 50 known arrow-types - each used differently depending on prey, size of prey, wet or dry season, distance of target, battle or hunt, etc., etc. even as brides-price!

Hello Nonoy,

Speaking of "brides-price" there are also a multitude of different arrows in the Papua New Guinea cultures. One of these arrow heads is designed for shooting the wife in the leg as a reminder of the husband's authority over her. The arrow head is designed to hurt, but not penetrate her leg.

Another variety of arrow head is used by two men having a dispute between them. They step off a number of paces and take turns shooting each other in the legs with non-penetrating arrow heads. This is considered an honorable way to settle arguments.

Maybe this cuts down on lawsuits

[Nonoy Tan]

Hi Bill,

That is fascinating! Such stories really make weapon objects worth preserving! Thank you.

Nonoy