Hi Tim,
Neat photo. Are those lances (i.e. long stabbing spears), or throwing spears?
The need for straightness applies in two places, really. One is where something is meant to be thrown. It's entirely possible to throw a twisty spear some distance, but if accuracy and deep penetration are the goals, twistiness is a problem.
The other is where you're jabbing with a spear--one hand guides, one hand pushes, as if the spear were a pool cue. In these cases, the spear shaft has to be very smooth and straight in order for the stab to work. Note that you can use any twisty old spear with a two handing stroke (both hands pushing), but I'm not sure that's as accurate.
What I'm saying, basically, is that the functionality of spears is limited by the shape of the shaft. To be fully functional, a spear shaft has to be straight and smooth. If it's twisty or decorated (i.e. not smooth or straight) it's still quite useful, but in a more limited way.
Fearn
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