The preliminary results of experiments with Aurignacian split based points production, hafting and usage

The proposed reconstructions of Aurignacian split based points production and hafting are based on the use of mechanical properties of wet deer antler – bending strength, elasticity and longitudinal fibrous. The efficient production of split is possible with two reliable methods (or so-called “split drive technology”) when the final reception of “tongued piece” and only snapped fragments are available. Both methods are based on the gentle bending of antler blank in the place of transversal slot which is carried out with “baton forces” or even fingers. The additional control of direction and spread of crack through body of antler is possible with some kinds of wedge-like lever (first of all pre-part of wood shaft, special antler chisels and wedges or even other tongued pieces).

The reconstructed method of hafting is attached with above-mentioned technology of their production. The flat wedge-shaped wood foreshaft of projectile is driven in split base point between the wet “wires”. The latter is bound over wet sinew which efficiently fixed point on the shaft just after leary or drying. Perhaps, the sinew also was used for fixing of Aurignacian microliths on the surface of antler point in flat position as scale-like barbs.

The proposed hypothesis also explains some archaeological data both unfinished or damaged points and different wastes of points production from archaeological assemblages.