Hunting lesions caused by osseous projectile points: experimental results and archaeological implications

Summary

J. Whittaker: Upper Magdalenian (Upper Paleolithic) antler points, fork-based or double beveled, from Isturitz, France. Could be on darts or arrows - earliest definite bow evidence is Ahrensburgian arrow shafts from Stellmoor, Germany, ca 2000 yrs younger than Up Magd.

Replicated pts on foreshafts with hide glue and sinew, used (96) on arrows with self bow, and atlatl darts 2.5 m L, 157-193 gm, atlatls of Up Pal type 50-70 cm long, Chauvaux, Cattelain, Demoulin, and Rivere throwers. Two calf, 2 adult fallow deer carcasses at 10-13 m.

Three types damage to faunal bone: notches, punctures, and perforations (through and through), some with associated cracks, beveling, and embedded pt frags. Scapula most likely to be perf’d. Ribs most likely notched. Lighter arrows have less kinetic energy than darts, but similar bone impacts except maybe more deflection and thus fewer punct + perf, more notching. Notching and perf often with internal beveling [like concoidal fracture]. Weapon impact rarely recog in archaeofaunal assemblages - preservation and recognition problems.

[Also provides evidence that round-section antler points on atlatl darts are very effective, deep wounds into bone, sometimes even transfixing animal and perforating scapula from inside.]

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• EXARC Experimental Archaeology Collection

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Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): EXARC Experimental Archaeology Collection Manager

Record Identifiers

ExArc Id(s): 9880

Notes

Rights & Attribution: The information in this record was originally compiled by Dr. Roeland Paardekooper, EXARC Director.