Assegai

An assegai or assagai[a][2] is a polearm used for throwing, usually a light spear or javelin made up of a wooden handle with an iron tip.

The use of various types of the assegai was widespread all over Africa and it was the most common weapon used before the introduction of firearms.

The Zulu, Xhosa, and other Nguni tribes of South Africa were renowned for their use of the assegai.

This weapon is otherwise known as the iklwa or ixwa, after the sound that was heard as it was withdrawn from the victim's wound.

This weapon was typically used with one hand while the off-hand held a cowhide shield for protection.