Primitive Archer
Main Discussion Area => Flintknapping => Topic started by: Joec123able on April 27, 2013, 03:38:02 am
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I just wanna know, why do flint knappers use copper for there flakers or what ever what's wrong with using steel or other metals. I'm not a flint knapper one day I hope to be able to create these beautiful points but I just wanted to ask this question.
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The reason flintknappers use copper is because it works better than other metals. Why? Other metals feel "slippery" when in contact with the stone. Copper is the least slippery. You want your tools to make firm contact with the stone when removing flakes. This firm contact allows you to be precise when you apply force.
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In all seriousness, try using various pieces of metal from steel, brass, aluminum and then try copper. When I first started I tried the above method just to "know" for myself. I do like the brass spalling hammer that I have though. Good luck.
Tracy
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Modern knappers use many metal types copper happens to be one of the many and I would say is the most common. Boppers are often made of copper for the reasons already stated but some knapper use metal (steel in many cases) for punching and other processes.
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Like the others have already said copper has more bite than harder metals. Therefore it hangs on to the platform and flake a bit longer producing better results and a smaller bulb where the flake detaches.
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I like to use soft nails for pressure flaking. I tend to run better flakes with them than copper nails and I get them to hold their edge longer and better. It depends on the material though- copper works better for me on stuff that is more obstinate. I guess this is my first post so hello everybody. :)
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Welcome. :)
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Copper is softer and tends to mimic moose or white tail billets. You also don't have to "dress"
your tool up as often as you do antler. By dressing I mean smoothing, sanding your antler billets after you beat them up or filing copper boppers or pressure flakers for the same reason.
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mullets Right it softer and the rock grips the stone better.
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Alright thanks everyone that makes perfect sence