Category:Javelin

JAVELIN (polearm)
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Weight: ~1kg
Rank(s): 1st and 2nd row

        Javelins are classified as light spears, suitable for
melee or missile combat, usable either on horseback or on foot.
The weapon has been around since man's earliest days. The 
javelin head is not very large, and is usually leaf-or lancet-
shaped. Javelin heads may have barbs.
        As a weapon of war, the javelin has low popularity, 
though it is often used for hunting purposes. Javelins are also 
used as a ceremonial weapon of bodyguards in civilized nations. 
Halberdier yeomen are often assigned javelins.
        Javelin throwing is a common contest of the games of 
sport of ancient civilizations.
        Javelins may be used either one- or two-handed, and like 
the harpoon, there is no difference in speed factor between the 
two styles. The javelin has a respectable throwing range, 
certainly better than that of a spear, with damage potential 
comparable to the spear. Like the harpoon, the javelin gives 
the adventurer the advantage of a weapon that may be used 
effectively either as a melee weapon or as a missile weapon.
        Many drow carry javelins, often coating the weapons with
the same poison they use on crossbow bolts. Kobolds also use 
javelins, as any weapon which inflicts damage from a long distance 
is embraced by that cowardly race. Advanced races of lizard men 
are also javelin users.

Some skill(s) usable with the weapon: 
  Battlecry, impale, lure, mangle and polearms.

See also:
  Short spear, harpoon, ranseur, boar spear, bardiche, long spear,
  fauchard, trident, glaive, gisarme, pilum, pike, voulge, 
  halberd and lance.