[Straight Vermonter]

I have always heard this explanation that nails in the hands would not support the weight of the body. However if the nail was used with a washer or similar device it would distribute the weight across the bones and not the soft tissue. This would amply support the victim. The Romans were sophisticated executioners. I am sure they could have thought of this.

[redgolum]

I read in Biblical Archeology Review a few years ago that a grave of a crucified man had been discovered with the remains of a wooden "washer" for exactly the purposed you stated.