Difference between revisions of "Javelin (weapon)"
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'''Javelins''' are lightweight, throwing shafts, with a slender shank that's typically 8 feet long. Hardwoods such as oak and ash are preferred, though sometimes other woods like pine are used. The head is charcoaled for strength and then polished and sharpened, then reinforced with whipcord or animal sinew for strength. This process helps prevent splintering upon impact, increasing the weapon's durability. Soldiers trained to fight specifically with javelins are called "javelineers." In ancient Greek warfare, the light infantry known to use javelins were called "peltasts." | '''Javelins''' are lightweight, throwing shafts, with a slender shank that's typically 8 feet long. Hardwoods such as oak and ash are preferred, though sometimes other woods like pine are used. The head is charcoaled for strength and then polished and sharpened, then reinforced with whipcord or animal sinew for strength. This process helps prevent splintering upon impact, increasing the weapon's durability. Soldiers trained to fight specifically with javelins are called "javelineers." In ancient Greek warfare, the light infantry known to use javelins were called "peltasts." | ||
Revision as of 16:36, 13 March 2025
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Javelins are lightweight, throwing shafts, with a slender shank that's typically 8 feet long. Hardwoods such as oak and ash are preferred, though sometimes other woods like pine are used. The head is charcoaled for strength and then polished and sharpened, then reinforced with whipcord or animal sinew for strength. This process helps prevent splintering upon impact, increasing the weapon's durability. Soldiers trained to fight specifically with javelins are called "javelineers." In ancient Greek warfare, the light infantry known to use javelins were called "peltasts."
The held end of the javelin is generally notched or fitted with a small binding to provide extra grip for the thrower. In some instances, leather strips or tassels may be added, but these are mainly decorative, meant to increase the visual impact or stability during flight. Some cultures, such as the Iberians and Celts, incorporated unique grip enhancements, including wrapped rawhide or waxed cord to improve handling in wet conditions.
Use
The weapon is best used in the opening rounds of a battle, as forces engage with one another, before engaging with swords and axes. As sport, javelins are used in tournaments, particularly in mounted games where knights throw them at targets or at rings to test their accuracy and skill.
The weapon is insufficiently durable for close-quarter fighting, being suited for hurling at enemies. The missile causes 1-6 damage on a hit. The weapon cannot be thrown at an adjacent hex; 2 hexes is considered point-blank range, giving a +1 bonus to hit. The javelin's short range is 3-9 hexes, for which there is no adjustment; medium range is 10-18 hexes, giving a -2 penalty; and long range is 19-27 hexes, giving a -5 penalty. The weapon cannot be set vs. charge.
See Weapons List
