Sharp is Sharp

[Marc St Louis]

Being a hunter by nature I'm always more concerned about function rather than appearance, although I do try to make my points symmetrical.  I have found that for me my points and blades are sharper if I make the edges serrated.  Do you all find this to be the case as well?  Also I find that the direction that I pressure flake, such as towards the point or towards the base, will give me an edge that cuts better and better in that direction

[Chippintuff]

In my experience, the sharpest edges are made by doing the last pass of pressure flakes to only one side on each edge. Others have reported that if the game is covered in tough hair, like a hog, serrations can get caught in the hair and not let the point penetrate well if it is on a projectile. Serrations can be very useful if any sawing action is needed.

WA

[mullet]

I've gotten sharper arrows by doing the last pass with a small antler tine by alternating the flakes from one side, then the other, pushing down toward the base. I do finish a lot with serrations and use them. I've never had a problem with penetrations on pigs.

[Marc St Louis]

Well that's interesting.  I ask this question because I have handled points and blades from other knappers and they were very well made, better than what I can do actually, but my points were sharper.

[PrimitiveTim]

ummm... haven't you watched Ryan Gill's video on this?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1nSRLn7ybJM

[Marc St Louis]

No I hadn't but I have now and he basically does what I do

[JackCrafty]

Serrations are very effective if they are done carefully.  If there is a lot of dull spots and crushing, they get "gummed up" easily.

[caveman2533]

I often use an antler tip also seems to tear the edge off leaving a nice sharp scar. Serrations will help make a good sharp edge if not excessive and done properly.