Since the era from the 1540s-1700 the Navajo have depended more on sheep, goats and cattle than hunting. Sheep have been central to Navajo culture since at least the mid 1600s or early 1700s. read more
In the past, Navajo used sinew backed bows that were very powerful. Most were double curved. These also used single curved simpler self bows. The preferred arrow wood was Mountain Mahogany shoots. The shafts were grooved either in straight lines or in a zigzag line or both. This represents lightning imparted to the arrow. read more
They also used them for hunting animals like bison. When fighting against European explorers, Native Americans used spears. Spears were also used for hunting. War clubs were heavy clubs, sometimes featuring a spear on the end. In addition to using them for war, they were used during executions and some ceremonies. read more
Aside from use in Navajo hunting however, these tools were also commonly used in battle with colonizers. Bows and arrows, tomahawks, and knives were their weapon of choice when defending their settlements, but they also used these items when building structures and shelter. read more