Quick Answer
To hand-craft effective spear points from bone, select suitable bone types, such as antler or long bone, and follow a process involving rough shaping, smoothing, and sharpening. This requires careful attention to detail and patience. A sharp spear point is crucial for successful hunting.
Selecting and Preparing Bone Material
When selecting bone for a spear point, look for straight-grained, dense bones such as antler or long bones. These types of bone are more durable and less prone to cracking. For antler, select straight sections with minimal curvature, and cut them into desired lengths using a sharp stone or metal tool. For long bones, cut them into sections about 2-3 inches long. Remove any excess tissue and smooth the surface with a stone or sand to create a clean, even surface.
Shaping the Spear Point
To shape the spear point, hold the bone in a vise or between two rocks, and use a pressure flaker or an atlatl to remove small flakes and shape the desired form. Use a series of small, controlled strikes to gradually shape the point, working from the base to the tip. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, which can cause the bone to crack or break.
Sharpening and Finishing the Spear Point
Once the basic shape is achieved, use a pressure flaker or a fine-grained stone to sharpen the spear point to a fine edge. Hold the bone at a 20-30 degree angle, and use light, controlled strikes to remove small flakes and sharpen the edge. Repeat this process several times, working from the base to the tip, until the desired level of sharpness is achieved. Finally, use a fine-grained stone to remove any small imperfections and polish the spear point to a smooth finish.
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