proposed timing is roughly aligned with climatic events of 535 AD, which were disruptive world wide including North America
proposed forcing mechanic is that atlatl has reduced effectiveness in range when firing upward, compared to arrows which could more readily inflict damage on an object at greater height
implies increased dependency on roosting birds for game meat pervasively in the south (where atlatl use ceased immediately), seasonally in the north (where dual use continued for centuries)
for PvP events I suspect the warclub & shield was still the preferred kit
proposed timing is roughly aligned with climatic events of 535 AD, which were disruptive world wide including North America
proposed forcing mechanic is that atlatl has reduced effectiveness in range when firing upward, compared to arrows which could more readily inflict damage on an object at greater height
implies increased dependency on roosting birds for game meat pervasively in the south (where atlatl use ceased immediately), seasonally in the north (where dual use continued for centuries)
for PvP events I suspect the warclub & shield was still the preferred kit
While atlatls and bows can be used for hunting, I’d wager warfare defined these people’s toolkits.
The fast transition suggests there was a strong pressure to switch, which probably didn’t come from animal hunting patterns.