I need some terminology help...

[pat (chicago)]

I was visiting friends who live on a farm in Wisconsin yesterday. They showed me a large "arrow head" that has an unusual cutting edge. All of the arrow heads I have seen have a cutting edge that is like a knife edge in that the cutting edge is in the middle of the projectile. This on has a "beveled edge" and the cutting edge is at the bottom (or top) on both sides- almost a 45 degree angle! When flipped over the same is true of the other side.

What is this type of edge called? What is the "normal" edge called called? My sister in law took a cell phone picture of this piece and another "normal" piece. I will try to post later.

Thanks for the help!

[tmodel]

hello Pat!! and welcome to Tnet AIA forum from Tmodel!! on the eastern highland rim of tennessee. your point is what is called a beveled edged piece possible a knife. the beveled edge is formed as it is resharpend by flaking from the same side, the more it is resharpend the steeper the angle. hope this was stated clear enought to help. Terry

[pat (chicago)]

Can't really see what I am talking about...its about 3.5 inches-4 inches long.

[The Grim Reaper]

Pat, that is a Thebes Point and is very early Archaic in age, probably around 8500 or 7500 BC. The beveled edge on these types is formed during the resharpening process. A lot of Points like that started out much longer and wider and as they resharpen them they lose a little length and width each time.

Here's a couple of links on the type.

http://www.projectilepoints.net/Page...ts/Thebes.html

http://www.lithicsnet.com/thebes.htm

[tmodel]

Pat!! i missed one of your ?? the first time, all i have ever heard was cutting edge. somebody out there come back with the real name for the normal edge on a point for Tmodel!! and Pat!! Terry

[pat (chicago)]

So it's a thebes. Now all I need to do is gain ownership!