Flintknapping a Graham Cave Point and the Early Archaic Period

[@TheMeneltarma]

Awesome video. Almost meditative to listen to you knap and talk about the history behind these points. As a knapper, I learn more and more about the history of these points thanks to your work. Keep up the good work, it is much appreciated.

[@jimajello1028]

It is so good to see a Lithic Technologist using only the organic tools that have been proven to have been used according to the reconstructive archeological record. The fracture mechanics of the organic tools used leave signatures in early preforms found in various stages. A pre- Neolithic approach (before the new stone age) in North America signals the use of hammer stone, antler, Bone, ivory & hard wood percussion & Pressure flaking. Legitimate archeological research indicates pre archaic employment of copper found in ornamental objects. When copper smelting & extraction began it's value & use changed in North America. I believe you have the correct presentation on how that Biface was actually made. References - Dr Errett Callahan, Bob Winters, Bob Patton, Jack Cresson, Scott Silsby, Jim Silk (archeological & Lithic researchers)

[@henryconner6564]

that is one of the most beautiful points I've ever seen

[@draven3838]

Great point for atlatl and darts, these are my second favorite points

[@davidslamka2488]

Silas, I think this was your best video yet.

[@pathwaysofthepast]

Thanks David! I appreciate that.

[@draven3838]

Amazing craftsman, thank you

[@charlesmckinney3560]

Another excellent production Silas! I always feel like I come away with more knowledge then I had before from every one of your videos. It's great to see your knapping techniques along with the information on the people who would be using the tool. I really like the background theme music as well, it added a certain discovery type feel to your video. Always a great start to my day seeing some new content from you!

[@pathwaysofthepast]

I’m glad you feel like you’re learning from my videos! Good to know the music was a nice touch, I’ll try to keep doing that.

[@richardwiley5933]

Beautiful point! You have excellent technique and control.

[@pathwaysofthepast]

Thank you Richard

[@corneliushoward4343]

That turned out nice 👌🏾

[@QuailCanyonAnthropolgy]

I hate copper boppers, your bopper is made of moose or elk horn right? Great video, coming from a fellow knapper I know how much time, effort, and blood has been invested in your skill! thank you, I will share this content with everyone I know, even though none of them will appreciate it as much as I do!

[@rcmore1470]

What an amazing point keep up the good work

[@pathwaysofthepast]

Thanks!

[@troyhindsley9177]

You sir are going to confound scientist or someone someday. They’re going to find this point and others long after we’re all gone , and they’re going to think they were really old. I just happened on your video, I will be looking forward to seeing more of them. The information you provide about the timeline sounds thoroughly researched. I’ve always been interested in knapping. I’ve never known anyone who knew enough about it to teach it to me. I guess I just need to find some good chirt and start trying.

[@antlerzflintfinder268]

Awesome Video Payhways of the Past! 👍👍

[@pathwaysofthepast]

Thanks Alex!

[@pathwaysofthepast]

Thanks Alex!

[@cassieangel2885]

Very nice point, and I like the History

[@pathwaysofthepast]

Thank you!

[@rcmore1470]

Is that chert it’s my favorite material to work

[@pathwaysofthepast]

Yes that’s Burlington chert from west-central Illinois

[@johnmartin6140]

how sharp were these tools ? would you have been able to cut hair/beards with raw Burlington ?

[@pathwaysofthepast]

Well, very sharp. Graham cave points and other bifacial tools would have sucked for cutting human hair since they have a finely serrated edge, would be all that comfortable for the person getting a trim. Flakes would have been better suited to that task.