How to Make a Spear

One of humanity's earliest tools, the spear, is still used today to hunt. Spears are also used by hikers to increase their arm's reach when trying to ward of aggressive animals. Make your own spear to hone your woodcraft skills, personalize your weapon or make a spear as a gift for someone else.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Long piece of wood or metal
• Knife or axe
• Regional decoration for the spear
• Spearhead
• Wet rawhide, leather, string, shoe lace, cord or tape

1. Locate a shaft. Use either wood or metal for your spear. Cut a groove in one end with a knife or axe. If using wood, select a straight limb.
2. Decide on the length of the spear. Longer spears are used for throwing accuracy and reach. The shorter the weapon, the more agile, fast and light it becomes. If you plan to use the spear as a walking stick as well, make sure the weight won't be too heavy after carrying it across the miles.
3. Consider the type of spear you want to make. If is it for a decoration project, decide first on the era and region you want to base the design on. Acquire ornaments according to the spear type.
4. Insert the spearhead into the groove at the end of the shaft and lash it firmly with a line. Use wet rawhide or leather for strength and authenticity. String, shoe laces, striped bark from bushes woven into a cord or tape may also be used. Another option is to sharpen the end of the shaft and then to harden it in a fire.

Tips & Warnings

• When using a spear as a weapon in the wild, do not to let an aggressive animal past your spear point. Make thrusts accurately to ensure efficacy. In survival situations, several spears are recommended.