Of all the history of mankind, nine tenths of it is written in stone. Able to make tools from flint cobbles, our fore-bearers gained an advantage over other predators. We not only rose to dominate our environment, but we went on to alter it, for the production and use of stone tools followed our progress well into the age of agriculture. Even today, in the remote highlands of New Guinea, there are humans who still practice this ancient craft.
Flint working is a universal part of our heritage. It is the one thing that all races of mankind, the world over, have in common. If you could trace your ancestors back far enough, you would certainly find flintknappers among them.
How is it done?
The surface of a stone tool will exhibit a wavy appearance. These scars are a frozen record of shock waves generated by a series of blows dealt to the edge. Geologists tell us that flint has a "concoidal fracture". This is best illustrated when a BB strikes plate glass. A cone is removed opposite the point of impact. When striking the edge of a piece of flint, only a portion of that cone is removed. By controlling the angle, placement and weight of the blows it is possible to fracture this material in a predictable manner. In making his implements, prehistoric man used one or a combination of three techniques which are known as percussion flaking, indirect percussion, and pressure flaking.
Percussion flaking: Flakes are driven off the edge with a hammerstone or deer antler.
Pressure flaking: Flakes are pried off with a deer antler tine or copper pointed tool.
Indirect percussion: Flakes are removed by striking a punch placed on the edge.
What kind of tools do I need?
Hammerstones were the first and simplest flint knapping tools. They were just water worn pebbles that fit the hand well, used to break up nodules and blocks of flint into workable spalls, and to rough out blanks. Hammerstones are made of granite, quartzite or greenstone.
The antler billet is used to thin, shape and sharpen the flint tool. The ideal billet is made from the trunk of a moose antler. However, smaller antlers, such as those from the white tailed deer, can also be used.
Pressure flakers were made from the upper tine portion of the antler rack. Many people use copper pointed tools.
Punches used for indirect percussion can be made from antler, or antler tipped with copper.
Abraders are made from quartzite or sandstone. An excellent substitute can be a broken carborundum grinding wheel. These are one of the more important tools, necessary for grinding the edge to make striking platforms.
Last but not least important are protective gloves, safety goggles, and leather knee pads.
Can I learn to do this?
Anatomically, modern humans are no different than their ancestors of
10,000 years ago, so you should be able to learn this craft. Today flint
knapping has been rediscovered by those who are interested in reviving
ancient skills. In fact, a whole industry has grown up to aid and support
those who wish to learn. Books, tapes, tools, materials and classes are
now readily available. Please wander through our site to learn more about
these products and services; this will help you get started.
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