this post was submitted on 17 Nov 2024
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A caltrop (also known as caltrap, galtrop, cheval trap, galthrap, galtrap, calthrop, jackrock or crow's foot) is an area denial weapon made up of usually four, but possibly more, sharp nails or spines arranged in such a manner that one of them always points upward from a stable base (for example, a tetrahedron). Historically, caltrops were part of defences that served to slow the advance of troops, especially horses, chariots, and war elephants, and were particularly effective against the soft feet of camels. In modern times, caltrops are effective when used against wheeled vehicles with pneumatic tires.

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[–] PriorityMotif 4 points 1 week ago

Funny story, these were made illegal in the state of Illinois due to their use during a big strike at a Caterpillar plant. Noone is sure if it was the strikers or the strike breakers using them.