Wear Traces and Projectile Impact: A Review of the Experimental and Archaeological Evidence

Abstract

Experimental and archaeological researchers have identified a variety of fracture or breakage types associated with stone implements used as projectile points. The mechanics of formation of the fracture types are similar regardless of mode of use: bow, atlatl, or thrusting. Even so, there continues to be some confusion and lack of standardization regarding terminology and the recognition of these fracture types. Identification of impact damage in lithic assemblages is facilitated by the isolation of both abrasive and fatigue wear and the adoption of standardized terminology. Impact-damaged artifacts can also provide relevant data pertaining to site function, patterns of weapons use and discard, and other aspects of subsistence behavior.