The bolas, or balls, are of two kinds: the simplest, which is chiefly used for catching ostriches, consists of two round stones, covered with leather, and united by a thin plaited thong, about eight feet long.

(See Chapter 11.) The other kind differs only in having three balls united by the thongs to a common centre.

The Gaucho holds the smallest of the three in his hand, and whirls the other two round and round his head; then, taking aim, sends them like chain shot revolving through the air.

The balls no sooner strike any object, than, winding round it, they cross each other, and become firmly hitched.
The size and weight of the balls varies, according to the purpose for which they are made: when of stone, although not larger than an apple, they are sent with such force as sometimes to break the leg even of a horse.

I have seen the balls made of wood, and as large as a turnip, for the sake of catching these animals without injuring them.