78 



The bird-spear is launched with the throw-stick (nuqouq) 

 (see Figures 20 and 21) a wooden implement about 12 to 14 



Figure 20. Throwing-stick from Cape Wolstenholme, Labrador. 

 Length 18 inches. 

 Collected by E. W. Hawkes. Division of Anthropology, Museum No. IV B. 492. 



Figure 21. Spear thrower, from Great Whale river, Labrador. 

 Length 17 inches. 

 Collected by A. P. Low. Division of Anthropology, Museum No. IV B. 69. 



inches long, with a groove on one side into which the end of the 

 spear shaft fits. In some old specimens there is an ivory button 

 at the end of the shaft which fits into a socket in the groove. In 

 modern spears this is represented by a short bit of iron or a nail. 

 This gives a secure hold to the spear shaft and perhaps an ad- 

 ditional impetus to the throw. 



The spear shaft is supported by three fingers of the hand, 

 which fit into grooves at the side of the throw-stick, while the 

 first finger slips through a hole behind them. The thumb fits 

 into a groove on the opposite side and turns down on the spear. 

 In delivering the bird-spear, the forearm is drawn back until 

 nearly perpendicular, with the thumb supporting the spear 

 shaft, and the three fingers giving it the necessary direction. 

 After delivery, the throw-stick is thrust under the sealskin 

 thong by the hole, and the paddle, which is held in the left hand, 

 put in motion. The aim of the kayakers with the bird-spear is 

 very good, and they throw a hundred feet with remarkable 

 accuracy. 



