spearstones

Spearstones are a type of stone tool, typically made from flint or chert, that were shaped to be attached to the end of a spear. The primary purpose of a spearstone was to serve as a projectile point, intended to penetrate the hide of an animal during a hunt. They were widely used by prehistoric human populations across various continents and time periods, from the Paleolithic to more recent indigenous cultures.

The production of spearstones involved knapping, a process where smaller flakes of stone are struck off a larger core to achieve the desired shape and sharpness. The resulting points often exhibit a symmetrical, leaf-like or triangular form with sharp edges. The size and specific design of spearstones could vary depending on the intended prey, the available stone materials, and the cultural traditions of the toolmakers. Evidence suggests that spearstones were hafted onto wooden shafts using natural adhesives like pine resin and binding materials such as animal sinew or plant fibers. Their development represented a significant advancement in hunting technology, allowing for more effective and safer acquisition of food resources.