Want to learn more about Apache Indian weapons? Read on for facts and info on each different kind of Apache Indian weapon used by this particular tribe…
The Apache Indian tribe was native to a number of southwestern states including New Mexico, Texas and Arizona. They were known as the enemy not only by the Europeans and the Americans but also by other native Indian tribes. They were by nature hunter gatherers along with which they would often take to the battlefield. They had their own selection of special weapons that they would use for different purposes.
Some of the most popular Apache Indian weapons are as follows:
The Bow and Arrow
The Apache people conducted all their hunting chores using the bow and arrow. They would make extremely handsome arrows out of bone. A skilled bow and arrow maker was held in high status amongst the Apaches. Fathers often taught their children how to use the bow and arrow in order to gear them up for manhood. Over the passage of time they learned that buzzard and turkey feathers produce the best arrows as they tend to be more resistant. They would use a special flexible wood in order to prepare their bows.
The War Club
As the name suggests this particular weapon was developed for use during battles. The Apaches would make use of hard wood to carve this hefty war club the purpose of which was to knock the enemy’s head off. The hitting edge was rounded and measured about 15 cm in diameter. This is one of the older weapons used by the Apache Indians. They would make use of young trees in order to construct the strongest war clubs which had to be disposed of as the wood began to decompose.
The Tomahawk
This is perhaps the most popular native Indian weapon in history. Today it has become a symbol for their culture. This weapon was developed back in the 1600s. It was basically a lightweight axe that had a metal edge on a solid wooden handle. Originally it was not a native weapon but later on it was incorporated into the Native American culture. The natives would often decorate tomahawks with silver. It was often presented to chiefs during peace negotiations and various other ceremonies. Hence we can see that the tomahawk was more than just a weapon to be used during battles rather it served as a symbol of solidarity in many ways.
The Jawbone club
In many ways the jawbone club was actually unique to this particular tribe. This unorthodox weapon was constructed out of the jawbone of a buffalo or a horse. They would sharpen the hitting edge of the weapon while leaving the teeth inside the jaw bone intact. In fact they would sometimes even polish the teeth in order to give the jawbone club an aesthetic appeal. Furthermore they would paint the club and wrap it with decorative ornaments such as feathers and hide. The jawbone club was a close combat weapon and had the ability to cut through the chest of an opponent.
