Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Flintknapping => Topic started by: smoky#1 on November 20, 2012, 01:10:30 am

Title: Slate point?
Post by: smoky#1 on November 20, 2012, 01:10:30 am

Here is my first stone point. It's slate.Is there a way to make slate less brittle?

Title: Re: Slate point?
Post by: JackCrafty on November 20, 2012, 03:26:42 am

Slate comes in many different grades.  Try to find the best grade and use a grinder to shape it and polish it.  Make sure you wear a mask.  The Native Americans made arrowheads from slate that were ground into shape, especially in the Northeast.

Oh yeah, there is no way to make slate less brittle, sorry. :-\

Title: Re: Slate point?
Post by: smoky#1 on November 20, 2012, 02:27:59 pm

Thank you for the information!

Title: Re: Slate point?
Post by: jamie on November 20, 2012, 05:26:41 pm

Grind from point to base when sharpening. It helps

Title: Re: Slate point?
Post by: mullet on November 20, 2012, 10:19:19 pm

I've made several points and Ulus from slate and Jade. They both get real sharp. Try making them a little thicker with more of an edge angle to make them a little less brittle.

Title: Re: Slate point?
Post by: smoky#1 on November 20, 2012, 10:33:53 pm

Thank you mullet, I'll try that.

Title: Re: Slate point?
Post by: dlhamblin on November 21, 2012, 02:17:04 pm

I have soaked slate in water-sealer (Thompsons or equivelant) with a lot of success.  However, that doesn't get away from being truly primitive.  If you want to stay primitive try melting pine tar unto the point.  Then, dust it with fine dirt or charcoal to get rid of the sticky feel.