Wanted to have a discussion/make enquiries about the tools that make the tools. Specifically, the tools employed in pecking hard stone. Seems to me we have very little defined in that drawer of the kit. I'm sure there has been study on the subject, but I haven't stumbled on it. Paleo enthusiasts recreate the process, but I'm not sure how far that's based on research versus trial and error.
Just seems like the tools for this ubiquitous job are unrepresented in the assemblages - at least in what I know about California.
Too explain it by the generalization that a harder material was required, side-steps so much. Some hard stones are not very hard at all but others are extremely tough. Seems like a flanged pestle or 'man-killer' would require different technology than a simple boulder mortar. Were hard-stone picks hafted or hand-held? Were they specifically shaped? Why don't we pick them up?
Throwing it out to the panel....
What's the story?
Just seems like the tools for this ubiquitous job are unrepresented in the assemblages - at least in what I know about California.
Too explain it by the generalization that a harder material was required, side-steps so much. Some hard stones are not very hard at all but others are extremely tough. Seems like a flanged pestle or 'man-killer' would require different technology than a simple boulder mortar. Were hard-stone picks hafted or hand-held? Were they specifically shaped? Why don't we pick them up?
Throwing it out to the panel....
What's the story?
Comment