Some quantitative experiments in handaxe manufacture

Abstract

This paper describes the methods and materials used by the author to reproduce flint handaxes of late Acheulian ‐ Mousterian of Acheulian Tradition type, using flaking tools and techniques available to palaeolithic man. Stages in the manufacture of handaxes are defined first subjectively then quantitatively by counting and weighing waste flakes in the order of their removal. Two main observations emerge from these experiments, both relevant to palaeolithic studies. One is the very large number of waste flakes and chips produced in making finely finished flint handaxes. The other is that it is possible to define stages in handaxe manufacture from a study of the waste flakes alone.