Experimental assessment of obsidian versus chert lanceolate projectile point durability and robusticity: Semi‐static fracture strength and dynamic impact

Stone-tipped weaponry was important for the survival of past peoples, and many functional non-functional factors likely influenced their design. Two that peoples considered in design stone tips are durability (whether or not a tip breaks) robusticity (how much damage is incurred upon breakage). Many have been shown experimentally to influence robusticity, including raw material. Here, we further explore relationship between material via controlled experiments comparing chert obsidian. We first demonstrate with semi-static fracture strength analyses obsidian require less force break than do tips. then show dynamic ballistics impact testing durable robust Our results entirely consistent previous experimental comparisons versus tips, support hypothesis when presented multiple materials, weighed costs benefits process selection.