An atlatl (from Nahuatl atlatl, IPA: [ˈaʔtɬatɬ]; in English pronounce [ˈætəlætəl],/ˈɑːtlɑːtəl/ or /ɑːtˈlɑːtəl/) is a tool that uses leverage to achieve greater velocity in throwing darts, and includes a bearing surface which allows the user to transfer energy derived from muscular energy during the throw. It consists of a shaft with a handle on one end and a spur or cup on the other, against which the butt of the dart rests. The dart is thrown by the action of the upper arm and wrist in conjunction with a shift of balance of the body. An atlatl can readily cast a well made dart to ranges greater than 100 meters.