Archaic Period, hand ax ?

[pageben745]

Not sure if it is a hand ax or maybe some type of hand tool. It looks pretty worn out, It got some abrasion on both sides, I think it might of been work but not sure. Opinions welcome. Found Northern Tier Penna. 2019

 

[uniface]

Possibly.

First & most important question is whether or not that specific material is part of the lithic background where it was found -- whether it "belongs" there geologically. If not, it was carried in from somewhere else (a "manuport), which implies some intended use (even if imponderable).

Then check all surfaces for abrasion, scratching, worn spots, impact evidence &c. None of these (you obviously have some) does not rule out purposeful use.

Certainly not a handaxe though -- no cutting edge(s).

 

[Tdog]

It doesn't look man made to me but shaped from water current over thousands of years. Someone who knows better than me may can answer this -- could those scratches have been made by glacial movement? They look pretty uniform and formed in one direction.

 

[CHUDs]

Pics of the bit would help

 

[pageben745]

Here is a pic. of the front of the tool, also some pic of the other artifacts I found from the same location. I think its the same time period. one motar, some kind of pounding tool, and I believe a bird made of bone.

 

[newnan man]

I don't see an axe. JMHO

 

[kentucky Quinn]

I’m not quite seeing a bird on the other last pic either, but it’s not in my hand. The other pic looks like a paint bowl or maybe they ground nuts and such in there, soap dish (joke). Thanks for sharing your finds