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.

    • merde alors@sh.itjust.worksOP
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      1 month ago

      which plant is that?

      i use reinforced tires (specialized armadillo or continental gatorskin) that don’t pop easily

      • paysrenttobirds@sh.itjust.works
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        1 month ago

        We called it caltrops :) It’s also called puncture vine. It was a nuisance in Arizona, but I didn’t bike a whole lot, so I mainly remember the sound when a bunch of them are stuck in your car tires.

      • gerbler@lemmy.world
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        1 month ago

        Little bastards like this but the size of a peppercorn grow in grass in Australia. We call them bindies and they’re the bane of every child’s sole. Teaches you to not walk barefoot on grass pretty quick.

  • supersquirrel@sopuli.xyz
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    1 month ago

    ouuchhhh!

    Did you have to leave that right smack dab in the middle of the timeline where I would mash my thumb into it while scrolling by?

    Also if that is a caltrop does that make these water caltrops?

    • skizzles@lemmy.world
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      1 month ago

      Those are tetrapods, or wave breakers.

      I suppose water caltrops is fitting though lol.

  • PriorityMotif@lemmy.world
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    1 month 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.