There is more to the craft of flintknapping than breaking stones to make tools. As well as being an entertaining hobby, it provides a hands-on way to understand the past. Here is the best resource for learning aboriginal techniques. Flintknapping was part of a rich way of life that gains new relevance through learning what each stage of tool production entailed. How were the raw materials obtained? What techniques and tools were necessary? Could anyone make an arrowhead?
Not everyone chooses the same methods today, and you will soon understand that each past tradition had its own recipe of specific flakes used to create useful stone tools. Each lifestyle choice led people to unique, and fascinating solutions with wonderfully artistic design.
"Old Tools—New Eyes is the best book of its type I have had the pleasure to read. Bob Patten is one of North America's greatest flintknappers, and Old Tools—New Eyes shares his extensive knowledge in a concise, yet comprehensive, overview of flintknapping. He clearly explains the principles and concepts required to make stone tools, shares new ideas, explains complex processes, and even incorporates ethics in this great little book. Old Tools—New Eyes is essential reading for anyone interested in stone tools and archaeology."
—Dr. James Dixon
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