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Beginner knapping questions

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_Hiller_:
Hey guys.

   I want to get into flint knapping in order to make my own arrow points for hunting. I know, relatively, what tools I’ll need, but unfortunately I have a disability that prevents me from getting around as freely to gather my own rock. So, I’m thinking of ordering rock from Neolithics.com. Probably banded obsidian, as I’ve heard obsidian is easiest, and it looks more interesting than plain black. Does anyone have any experience ordering from them?
   My other question is, assuming I order all my rock from there, about how much do I need to order to have enough material to become relatively proficient? I mean it’s only like $3 a pound so it’s not bad. I’m just wondering how far a pound is going to get me in terms of proficiency. Are we talking like 20-30 pounds at a time? I suppose that wouldn’t be bad but I don’t know about shipping cost. Anyone have any advice?

_Hiller_

jeffp51:
if you are trying to learn still, practice on the bottoms of bottles.  They are cheap (free if you find the right dumpster) and have the same consistency as obsidian.  They also present many of the same problems you will have with natural rock -- concavity, convexity, square edges.

JEB:
Guess you need to figure out if you are going to pressure flake slabs or do percussion knapping on bulk rock.  Neolithics and Kentucky Flintworks are both really good places for supplies.  You tube is your friend if you don't have videos to follow and learn from but nothing beats sitting down with knappers for one on one instruction so look for knap-ins  in your area.  Rock is sold by the pound but is usually  shipped in flat rate boxes.

bjrogg:
Welcome to PA. Your question is really hard to answer. It could take a box. It might take more than a wheelbarrow. Like jeb said YouTube can be your friend. Lots of good videos on there some better than others. I also agree with Jeff. Glass works like Obsidian and is much easier and cheaper to acquire. There is a lot to learn and it's hard to show someone how. Even when you know what to do you will still miss your spot or snap a point. We all still break points. They just are nicer points when we break them. I knap, make arrows, make bows and hunt. I personally think knapping is the trickiest of them all. I have to get in the right zone for knapping. I can't believe how fast time goes by when I get there. I just get completely into my stone and notice very little else. Some people find it fascinating. Some people find it frustrating. Some people find it both. It's not as frustrating when your breaking free glass. Gets a bit more frustrating when your making expensive gravel. Good Luck. Like most things that are truly rewarding, it takes time and patience. Probably more than a wheelbarrow full.
Bjrogg

Hawkdancer:
Another source of glass could be a local glass shop/store, they usually have a lot of shards left over, and the price may be very favorable.  They may be able to show you a few trick on getting the best shape, too.  You might be able to work a trade in the Trading Post section, as well.
Hawkdancer

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