Professional Documents
Culture Documents
World Atlatl Association President Scott Van Arsdale demonstrates casting an atlatl.
Casting Tips: -Stand up straight and tall, face the target with one foot slightly in front of the other. -With the dart loaded on, hold the handle of the atlatl horizontally above and slightly behind your ear. Angle the dart point upward above horizontal for 20 meters or more distances. Take 1/2 step forward with your lead foot as you start the casting motion. Cast into the initial angle you have chosen. -Dont lever the atlatl at the start of your cast. Pull forward first, then lever the atlatl and flick your wrist. Use momentum to build the force of your throw. Dont drop your elbows. Dont bend over. Aim throughout the casting motion, not just at the start. -Ray Strischek
Liability Waiver
Read this before purchasing or using this product. By purchasing or accepting our products you become responsible for the safe use of them. To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, in no event shall Thunderbird Atlatl, or the owners, family, sponsors, associates, retailers, wholesalers, their heirs, successors or assignees, be liable for any special, direct, indirect, incidental or consequential damages, regardless of the legal or equitable theory (in criminal or civil proceeding, contract, tort or otherwise) upon which the claim is based whatsoever arising out of or resulting from the use of, or inability to use, data, documents, information, products or materials, sold or made available by Thunderbird Atlatl, beyond the actual amount of funds collected upon purchasing the product. Anyone using Thunderbird Atlatl data, documents, information, products or materials agrees by the acceptance of it from anyone whomsoever (which includes any means of obtaining it): That he or she acknowledges, understands, and accepts any and all of the risks and responsibilities involved in its use, and is advised of the possibility of personal harm or harm to others, and furthermore takes on all legal liability unto him or her self. That it is necessary that he or she will take any appropriate steps in learning, understanding and applying all procedures, safety rules, regulations and laws, written or spoken, regarding the proper use of it. That this agreement extends in perpetuity to successors in use or ownership, regardless of the means of transfer, and regardless of whether or not this document or information has been transferred with the product. How to contact us: www.thunderbirdatlatl.com or 1-800-836-4520. Write to us at: Thunderbird Atlatl, PO Box 764, 90 Main Street, Candor, NY 13743.
Catatonk Atlatl
The Catatonk was designed in response to the demand for a quality flexible atlatl at a reasonable price. Equal in many ways to the pricier Catatonk Hunter, this atlatl has been designed to be produced with less labor, while keeping up the high standards for form and fit of the more costly atlatls in our line. Our Catatonk Atlatls are made in both one and two piece styles depending on available materials.
Catatonk
$45
$77
$120
$83
$134
The Catatonk Hunter Atlatl is an ergonomically engineered atlatl designed around the particular needs of the atlatl hunter, even though its use is certainly not limited to atlatl hunters. After years of experience using atlatls for hunting, we set about the task of designing an atlatl that is both very functional and at the same time very beautiful. We have paid close attention to dart placement relative to the handgrip so that the atlatlist would have maximum power without losing control We have chosen the hammer grip design over the paddle grip basically because the human hand transfers power more effectively with the hammer grip. (Try to pound a nail with a paddle grip hammer.) We have the dart up and away from the atlatl shaft to keep the fletching from conflicting with the shaft. This allows the dart to be placed on the atlatl in exactly the right rotation, which is important for consistent shots. The forward risers allow the atlatlist to hold the loaded dart with the non-dominant hand while waiting for game. Holding the dart in place with the dominant hand over long periods of time caused the hand to freeze causing a poor release. The rear riser is designed with a loading channel to make it easier to get another dart loaded quickly and efficiently in spite of movement or excitement. We make this particular atlatl either out of one piece of wood or use two pieces of wood expertly joined together. We interchange both methods. We adjusted the flex of the atlatl shaft to be moderate so that the atlatlist doesnt lose any control without taking away the smoothness of the shot. Each atlatl is tested as its being built so that the head of the atlatl remains aligned with the shaft during flexing. Atlatls that tend to favor one side or the other when shot are difficult to control. The Catatonk Hunter will handle the large diameter 8-ounce darts that are the best for penetration of big game. One needs only to handle a Catatonk Hunter to appreciate the care and craftsmanship used in constructing them. The design is a joy to behold and the balance is superb.
Catatonk Hunter
$85
$120
$160
$126
$174
Canandaigua Atlatl
The Canandaigua is a new atlatl design created for those looking for a paddle grip atlatl. The Canandaigua uses a paddle grip rather than a hammer grip. In a paddle grip, the wrist is rotated so the palm or the hand faces up in the launching position and faces down to the ground after follow through. This method of grip gives the shooter about three inches more leverage. We decided to design the Canandaigua for our customers who prefer a paddle grip over other grips. Some say the paddle grip atlatl is less traumatic for people with tendonitis and problems in the elbow.
Canandaigua
$85
$120
$160
$126
$174
hand scraped and well sanded following the natural flow of the grain. These are available in Hickory, Ash or Osage Orange with a bone or antler tine, natural fiber or leather finger loops, rubbed oil finish and natural fiber lacing which holds the antler tine in place and provides added grip at the handle. Some of our pieces are slightly charred and oiled, which would have been a surface treatment well within the grasp of hunter gatherers. Hiawatha Atlatl With three 6 foot darts With seven 6 foot darts With three 7 foot darts With seven 7 foot darts
$65
$100
$145
$106
$159
$20
$55
$94
$61
$108
$170
$141
$194
The Painted Hiawatha is just like the Hiawatha except it has a primitive feather painted design on the surface. Each one is different and unique, but esthetically pleasing. The painting does not represent any particular culture but is done using various features to achieve the primitive designs, as they might have been done in ancient times. Painted With three 6 With seven 6 With three 7 With seven 7 Hiawatha foot darts foot darts foot darts foot darts
$130
$165
$200
$171
$214
Kanakadea Atlatl
The Kanakadea has been developed to fill a market gap and the need for an easy to use atlatl. No fingers are required to control the dart in this new style of atlatl which was inspired by the atlatls made by Ray Strischek and the late Terry Keefer. The both okayed the use of this design element when asked if we could use it for a new atlatl design. It was further inspired by the handle of the lumber scale that we use to measure the amount of wood were purchasing. These two design elements combined with the finest hardwood lumber and typical high quality Thunderbird craftsmanship to produce a fine target atlatl. We have two styles of Kanakadeas to choose from-one with a wedge insert and one with a smooth one piece handle. We also produce shorter handled versions for the 12 and under set. They are priced the same as the larger models as the workmanship is the same. Our Kanakadea Atlatl Kit includes all the parts to make a version of our smooth handled atlatl. Kanakadea With three 5 With seven 5 With three 6 With seven 6 Atlatl-Wedge foot darts foot darts foot darts foot darts Handle
$45
$70
$105
$76
$119
$45
$70
$105
$76
$119
$30
$44
$68
$48
$72
$50
$81
$124
$87
$138
$35
$66
$119
$72
$133
$20
$51
$94
$57
$108
Nanticoke Kit
This is a kit version of the Nanticoke. You put it together the way you like, using whatever finishing methods you desire. The materials and design are the same high quality as the finished Nanticokes but only rough sanded. The kit includes all parts except glue, plus instructions, sand paper and beeswax, for a natural finish, if you so desire.
$25
$42
$66
$44
$70
Osceola Atlatl
The Osceola is a bamboo, horn and wood composite atlatl inspired by the construction of the Asian horn bow. Using techniques gleaned from master bowyer Jaap Koppedrayer, Bob Beg has created an atlatl that uses technology thousands of years old to make an atlatl that used one of the fastest spring release systems known to man. Not only does this composite work well but it also looks great. Highly polished buffalo horn and bamboo are a visual treat. The wooden part of the handle is made from exotic hardwood or curly domestic wood. The Osceola comes with an atlatl weight attached. The atlatl weight is made from colorful stone, polished using the same methods jewelers use to polish precious and semi-precious stones. Osceola Atlatl With three 6 foot darts With seven 6 foot darts With three 7 foot darts With seven 7 foot darts
$225
$256
$300
$262
$314
Otsiningo Atlatl
The Otsiningo is an atlatl designed for big game hunting where seven-foot long darts are used. This atlatl features three rests, including a finger rest, tine rest, and forearm rest to carry extra dart length without def lection, bone tine, knuckled grip handle, and atlatl weight which is included. Available in Hickory, Walnut, Osage Orange. This atlatl is much like the Wyalusing, but it is designed to carry the weight of long hunting darts with a heavy point, which would normally be flexed by its own weight. It is easier to aim the dart because it remains straighter. Otsiningo With three 6 With seven 6 With three 7 With seven 7 Atlatl foot darts foot darts foot darts foot darts
$130
$160
$210
$166
$224
Tioga Atlatl
Balance and form are the best features of the Tioga atlatl. The formed grip and integrated index finger dart rest work well together to achieve accuracy and consistency. The cemented bone button tie is reinforced with simulated sinew lacing. This is a good atlatl for hunting as well as target shooting, not to mention warfare. Although not yet field tested for the purpose we believe this atlatl could be shot in outer space. We would recommend larger fletching on your darts when using the Tioga atlatl in the thin Martian atmosphere. The Tiogas interestingly sculptured design allows the easy loading of darts while running or walking which can be important during hunting and film shoots. This weapon would make a good sidearm for those opposed to guns, but who need protection from aliens, dragons or home invaders. Tioga Atlatl With three 6 foot darts With seven 6 foot darts With three 7 foot darts With seven 7 foot darts
$84
$115
$165
$121
$179
T-Shirts
We are pleased to offer an extended line of Atlatl T-Shirts designed by artist Dave Carrigan. The T-Shirts are available in gray and sage. T-shirts are $15 each in adult sizes Medium to Extra Large ($17 for 2X). Check for availability. Check out our Smoked Monkey t-shirt available for sale on the fourth page of this catalog. New tshirts will be posted to our website from time to time. Check out our website at www.thunderbirdatlatl.com or call us at 1-800-836-4520.
Wappasening Atlatl
The Wappasening is a well-designed atlatl with a knuckled handle for good grip that is integrated with a forward dart rest. The Wappasening features a bone button tine cemented into the sinew-reinforced head. This is a good choice for a weighted atlatl. (Check out our assortment for atlatl weights). This atlatl is available in a variety of high quality woods, both exotic and domestic hardwoods. Check our list of hardwoods elsewhere in this catalog. It is finished with rubbed oil. This atlatl is a good choice for the target shooter. The Wappasening is a hybrid, combining elements of design from both the Wyalusing and the Nanticoke. It is built for maximum speed, without giving up any shooting stability. From its long sleek riser to the graceful tip, the Wappasening is an
absolute top performer. The Wappasening is easy to use, quiet extremely stable, and a pure joy to shoot. This is an excellent atlatl for the small handed individual. Optional Y Rest (Add $20.00 for This Option) The Wappasening can be fitted with an optional, no finger Y rest, which makes it a breeze for the beginner to use. The Y rest can be removed or put back in place in seconds, for more or less control of the release as desired. . Wappasening Atlatl
$65
$100
$145
$107
$159
Wyalusing Atlatl
The Wyalusing Atlatl is designed for ease of use, accuracy and consistency, featuring a bone or antler tine, clean sculptured lines, and a dart cradle at both ends of the weapon. It is available in various North and South American hardwoods, finished in rubbed oil. The tine is artfully tied to the head with simulated sinew. This atlatl allows the atlatlist to hold the dart on the cradle the same way each and every shot. The same motions can then be repeated for increased accuracy. This design is especially well adapted to the hunter, since it can be held loaded and ready even for hours if necessary without causing fatigue or cramping of the hands. This is a good all around atlatl for the beginner as well as the advanced hunter or target shooter. History The Wyalusing is a modern atlatl, inspired by elements of design from pictures on Mayan Temple walls by Bob Berg, and refined after years of extensive experimentation and testing on the atlatl range and many years of experience while using it for hunting and fishing. Eventually a functional yet aesthetically pleasing hunting atlatl emerged, which combined with unequaled craftsmanship and performance has made the Wyalusing one of the most sought after atlatls on the market today. This sleek, ergonomically designed atlatl hides speed and balance in its uniquely beautiful design. One only has to cast a dart to appreciate its true power and stability. Made and distributed since 1993 this reliable atlatl has been a best seller among premium atlatls. The Wyalusing is made from the finest hardwood chosen for grain, texture, and strength. Blanks are rough sawn and stored in a dry atmosphere until stresses in the wood have released themselves. From seasoned blanks the finished atlatl are hand crafted to meet stringent specifications. Each atlatl is then carefully sanded and finished with a hand rubbed tung oil finish. The spurs are expertly carved and polished from several different materials including but not limited to bone, antler, or horn. Whatever the material, they are always of the highest quality. No two are ever the same giving each atlatl its own personality. A veteran hunter, the Wyalusing Atlatl and our 7 foot ash hunting shafts with Ace broadheads, has been used to take deer, elk, buffalo, bear, wild boar and fish. Wyalusing Atlatl With three 6 foot darts With seven 6 foot darts With three 7 foot darts With seven 7 foot darts
$75
$110
$150
$116
$164
Photos clockwise from top: Bob Berg with a Bowfin harpooned with an atlatl; from left: George Gardner, Greg Maurer and Gary Nolf check out their new fishing vessel; and Bob Berg with harpoon equipment and catch.
Our kit directions are included as part of the catalog for convenience.
After sanding, rub the entire surface of the wood (excluding the tine hole) with beeswax. Other finishes may be used but the beeswax works just fine. If you use the beeswax, rub it onto the wood, then heat it over a heat source like a stove or hair dryer until the wax melts and flows into the wood. Spread it around until it wets the surface, rub it vigorously with cotton cloth, remove the excess and polish the surface. After the finish is applied, glue in the button tine in the hole provided with the wood glue or epoxy. Wipe off the excess and let it set. Find the small strip of leather in your kit, glue it into the wooded Y with the softest part of the leather on the outside. Trim the leather to fit the Y. After the leather is firmly adhered to the Y and trimmed. Glue the Y into drilled hole on the hand grip portion of your atlatl shaft. Let is set. You now have a finished Kanakadea Atlatl. Thunderbird Atlatl-2010.
These kit instructions are included as part of the catalog for convenience
Dart Kits
Dart kits contain everything you need to complete a dart yourself except glue and finishing which is available at any hardware store. The same high quality dart shafts, as described above, come with your kit along with full-length fletching, artificial sinew and field points. Full instructions included.
Per Shaft
$5.50 $6.50 $7
Cane Darts
We are pleased to offer a nice selection of copper tipped cane darts. Our cane darts are three fletched and come in sizes ranging from 5 to over 7 feet. $35 per dart or 3 for $100
Harpoon Darts
Atlatl fishing is a great sport and we are pleased to offer quality Harpoon Darts at $60 each.
Hunting Darts
With the resurgence in atlatl hunting, good hunting darts need to be designed and made specifically for this purpose. Thunderbird Atlatl has met this ever-growing market with our seven-foot, 8-ounce dart shafts made from ash. Seven foot hunting darts with an Ace Broadhead attached are $18.50 each or $124.50 for a set of seven.
$4 each
6 for $20
S/H varies depending on your location and number of targets ($10 to $20)
Assures compliance with ISAC rules hot glue for adhering points to darts tape for gluing feathers simple jig for attaching feathers to dart stock varies stock varies $2, $25, $100 to $300
Brass Dart Gauge Ferr-LTite Glue Fletching Tape Fletching Clamp Fletching Fletching Atlatl Weights
$6 per stick per roll per clamp solid colors mixed colors variety
19 mm size $3.50 $10 $1.50 $6 per dozen $8 per dozen prices vary depending on stone value .50-cents each .50-cents each $4 each $55 per dozen 160 Grain 200 Grain
Field Points Field Points Dart Repair Kit Copper Points Ace Broadheads Ace Broadheads
$6 per dozen $6 per dozen Glue and points for repairing your darts. Traditional Copper Points Made by Bob Berg $20 for package of six $22 for package of six
Order Form
(We accept all major credit cards, Paypal, checks, cash or money orders) Name Address City/State/Zip Telephone: Item Description (Please be specific)
Price