HARPOON (polearm) ================= Weight: ~3kg Rank(s): 1st and 2nd row The harpoon is a hunting weapon, which, in times of duress, may be used for defense. Its development by primeval man was for hunting marine mammals and large fish. The first harpoons were merely pointed sticks. Later, these became sticks with a sharp head of horn or bone. The heads often had hooks cut into them for increased damage and to hold the harpoon fast in the beast's flesh. The head was then fitted or attached to the end of the shaft, secured by animal sinews. Metal harpoon heads evolved later, most with pointed or barbed heads. These heads are usually detachable from the shaft, but are connected to the thrower by a cord attached between the point and the barb. When a hunter throws the harpoon and hits an animal, he follows the victim as best he can, playing out as much rope as needed until the beast tires and dies. Certain primitive jungle tribes traditionally use harpoons to hunt wild boar. Kuo-toa, the aquatic subterranean fish-men, favor the harpoon with as many nasty barbs on the weapon as possible. The harpoon is a common weapon in coastal areas, but its primary function is not as a weapon against an intelligent opponent. Some skill(s) usable with the weapon: Battlecry, impale, lure, mangle and polearms. See also: Javelin, short spear, ranseur, boar spear, bardiche, long spear, fauchard, trident, glaive, gisarme, pilum, pike, voulge, halberd and lance.

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