Split-finger or Loop Style Handles

by Atlatl Digest
10/3/2005

Split-finger or loop style grips on atlatls have been determined from archaeological remains, petroglyphs and from the modern remnants of stone-age cultures around the world.
 
They are designed is such a way that - when the atlatlist throws the dart - the motion is led by the palm and fingernails of the hand.
 
Split-finger or loop gripped atlatls can have fingerless dart rests or the dart can rest along the top of the fingers. When the latter method is used, the dart is gripped tightly between the thumb and another finger (usually the middle or the ring finger.)
 
Split-finger grips can have pegs, leather thongs or indentations in one or both sides of the handle. A loop grip usually has a hoop-like front that some or all of the fingers grip.
 
The greatest advantage to split-finger or loop style handles is that there is no turn in the wrist when throwing. This can increase consistency and accuracy.
 
The only disadvantage I have found is that - in some people, myself included - they can put extra pressure on the muscles of the forearm, making them tight and sore. A strained forearm muscle - similar to Tennis Elbow - doesn't make throwing darts pleasant. However, this doesn't affect everyone who throws with this style atlatl and the results of split-finger or loops style atlatls speak for themselves. Mark Bracken, Ray Strischek, Jack Rowe and others use this style and are consistently at or near the top of the world rankings.