Shorter and lighter than a thrusting spear, the javelin could be thrown at an opponent from a great distance or wielded to great effect in narrow quarters. When use in conjunction with a figure-eight shield, it enabled its wielder to strike at an enemy from the safety of cover. The weapon, crafted from a wooden shaft and tipped with sharpened bronze, came in a variety of sizes and weights, depending on whether it was intended for use in melee combat or flung from afar.