NAME
  boomerang - projectile weapon that returns to its point of origin
        when thrown

DESCRIPTION
  The returning boomerang is light, thin and well balanced, 12-30 inches
  (30-75 centimeters) in length, and up to 12 ounces (about 340 grams)
  in weight. It varies in shape from a deep, even curve to almost straight
  sides of an angle. The ends are twisted or skewed in opposite directions
  either as the boomerang is being made or after it has been heated in
  ashes.

  The boomerang is thrown with a vigorous action in which the thrower may
  run a few steps to gain greater impetus. It is held at one end, above and
  behind the thrower's shoulder, with the concave edge to the front, and
  swung forward rapidly with the flatter side underneath. Just before
  release, added impetus is given by a strong wrist movement; it is this spin,
  together with the skew of the edges, which determines its unique flight
  pattern. If thrown downward or parallel to the ground, it sweeps upward
  to a height of 50 feet (15 meters) or more. When thrown so that one end
  strikes the ground, it ricochets into the air at terrific speed, spinning
  endwise. It completes a circle or oval 50 yards (45 meters) or more wide
  and then several smaller ones as it drops to the ground near the thrower.
  A figure-eight course may also be followed.

  The nonreturning boomerang is longer, straighter, and heavier than the
  returning variety. With it animals were maimed and killed, while in
  warfare it caused serious injuries and death. One type has a picklike
  hook at one end.

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