How far, exactly, is a ‘javelin cast’?

The modern world record of a javelin throw stands at 98.48 m, using javelins that are heavier than reconstructions based on finds in the Nemea Archaeological Museum, which weigh only approximately 450 g in total. Modern throws of facsimile ancient javelins have been thrown 66 m with an ankyle and 35 m without, although these casts were thrown for distance not to accurately hit a target. Only Statius gives us a cast distance from antiquity, stating that the length between the turning posts of a chariot stadion could be matched by four javelin casts or three arrow shots (Thebaid 6.353–4). An average stadion was 185 m (606 ft) which gives 46 m for a javelin cast, though there are outliers, of course, giving far greater, but less likely distances. A throw…

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Ancient Warfare (Digital) - 1 Issue, AW XVIII.1

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