What are the two types of techniques used in flintknapping?

Flintknapping primarily involves two techniques known as percussion flaking and pressure flaking. These methods are essential for shaping and crafting tools from flint or similar materials.

Percussion flaking involves striking the stone with a harder object, typically using a hammerstone or another piece of flint. This action creates large flakes as pieces of material are removed to shape the desired tool. This technique is effective for producing sharp edges and is often the first step in the flintknapping process.

Pressure flaking, in contrast, employs a more delicate and controlled approach. In this technique, the knapper applies pressure to the stone using a pointed tool—often made of bone, antler, or metal—to detach smaller flakes. This method allows for greater precision and fine-tuning of the tool’s edge, facilitating the creation of tools with specific shapes or characteristics.

While other options mention different techniques or processes, they do not specifically relate to the traditional approaches used in flintknapping. Thus, the identification of these two specific techniques reflects the foundational skills necessary in the study and practice of lithic technology within anthropology.