The throwing-stick from Bristol Bay resembles in general characteristics
those from Nunivak Island and Cape Vancouver. In outline it has the
shape of the broadsword. Its cross-section is bayonet-shaped. It has no
distinct handle beyond a slight projection from the end. The
thumb-groove is shallow and chamfered on the lower side to fit exactly.
There is a long, continuous notch for the four fingers, in which the
index finger and the middle finger are set off by pegs. There is a
depression, more or less profound, to receive the tips of the fingers.
The groove for the harpoon or spear-shaft is at the lower extremity and
runs out entirely near the index finger. The ivory plug at its lower
extremity is beveled to receive a notch in the end of the spear or
harpoon shaft (Figs. 18-19).
A freshly-made implement, looking as if cut out by machinery, resembling
closely those just described, is labeled Kadiak. The constant traffic
between Bristol Bay and Kadiak, across the Alaskan peninsula, may
account for the great similarity of these implements. Furthermore, since
the natives in this region and southward have been engaged for more than
a century in fur-sealing for the whites, there is not the slightest
doubt that implements made by whites have been introduced and slightly
modified by the wearer to fit his hand.