Upstate New York: Lithic Identification and Flint Knapping

The ancient art of flintknapping, or the production of stone tools through the shaping of flint or chert, has long been a valuable skill for those interested in self-sufficiency and wilderness survival. In this essay, we will explore the history and practice of flintknapping, as well as the importance of lithic identification in the search for suitable stone.

Flintknapping has been practiced by humans for thousands of years, with the oldest known stone tools dating back to 2.6 million years ago. The skill was once essential for producing cutting and scraping tools, weapons, and other implements necessary for survival in a pre-industrial world. Today, flintknapping is often pursued as a hobby or for educational purposes, providing a glimpse into the past and a greater understanding of human history and technology.

In order to practice flintknapping, one must first locate suitable stone. This typically involves searching along rivers and creeks, where the action of water has exposed and worn down larger rocks, making them more readily available for knapping. Once a suitable stone has been found, it must be properly identified in order to determine its quality and suitability for knapping. This process, known as lithic identification, involves examining the stone's color, texture, and mineral composition in order to determine its type and properties.

Once a suitable stone has been identified, the knapping process can begin. This involves using a hard hammer, such as a piece of antler or bone, to strike the stone in a controlled manner, chipping off small pieces and shaping the stone into the desired tool or implement. This process requires a great deal of skill and practice, as the knapper must carefully consider the stone's properties and the desired shape of the final product in order to produce a functional and aesthetically pleasing result.

In conclusion, the ancient art of flintknapping is a fascinating and valuable skill that offers a unique insight into the history and technology of pre-industrial societies. The practice involves the identification and shaping of suitable stone, and requires a great deal of skill and practice to master. For those interested in self-sufficiency, wilderness survival, or simply a deeper understanding of the past, flintknapping is a rewarding and enlightening pursuit.

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~~~ DAY 1: How I Find Chert / Flint Cobble - Flint Knapping Primitive Survival Skills - 2020 Summer Rock Hounding Road Trip Camping Adventure TravelVlog ~~~~
Fun fun fun! Traveling around upstate New York finding, identifying, and quarrying chert for crafting primitive stone tools! On day 1 of our road trip, we traverse many creeks and rivers looking for flint / chert cobbles. We find esopus chert, and some type of blue-grey chert... and limestone! Jay talks about how he finds chert and how to identify chert. Along the way, we see some wildlife, have some laughs, Get overtired, encounter a haunted hotel, a waterfall, enjoy a beautiful lake, summer vacation travel and see the oldest tree fossil in the world. We accidentally find flint along the way.

arrowheads for hunting


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