Abstract: A composite javelin having superior vibration damping characteristics is provided having a hollow or low density body of generally circular cross-section which tapers from small diameter front and rear tip ends to a large diameter more or less in the center, said tapered diameters and general tip and grip features being in conformance with the requirements of the International Olympic Committee. The javelin body can be constructed in either a one or two piece manner and constitutes a plurality of Kevlar.RTM. or fiber glass prepreg bias wound plys forming an underlayer and a plurality of bias wound graphite/epoxy prepreg plys forming an overlayer. In the preferred two piece construction, the distribution of weight and composite center of gravity can be adjusted within the body to allow tuning the javelin to an individual athlete's throwing characteristics.

Abstract: A composite javelin having superior vibration damping characteristics is provided having a hollow or low density body of generally circular cross-section which tapers from small diameter front and rear tip ends to a large diameter more or less in the center, said tapered diameters and general tip and grip features being in conformance with the requirements of the International Olympic Committee. The javelin body can be constructed in either a one or two piece manner and constitutes a plurality of Kevlar.RTM. or fiber glass prepreg bias wound plys forming an underlayer and a plurality of bias wound graphite/epoxy prepreg plys forming an overlayer. In the preferred two piece construction, the distribution of weight and composite center of gravity can be adjusted within the body to allow tuning the javelin to an individual athlete's throwing characteristics.