A corner-notched point (or corner-notched tool) is a distinctive type of projectile point in lithic technology, defined by notches placed at the basal corners of the artifact. These notches create barbs and a stem, allowing the point to be securely hafted to a shaft or handle.
🌍 Definition
- Corner-Notched Point: A stone projectile point with notches cut into the corners of its base.
- Function: The notches provide a secure hafting mechanism, binding the point to a spear, dart, or arrow shaft.
- Diagnostic Feature: The angled notches distinguish it from side-notched or basal-notched points.
🔑 Characteristics
- Notch Placement: At the basal corners, angled upward toward the blade.
- Shape: Produces barbed shoulders and a narrowed stem.
- Variation: Depth and angle of notches vary by cultural tradition.
- Hafting Efficiency: Strong attachment, reducing slippage during use.
📚 Archaeological Significance
- Cultural Typology: Corner-notched points are diagnostic of specific prehistoric cultures, especially in North America.
- Chronology: Common in the Late Archaic to Woodland periods, though regional variants appear earlier.
- Functional Insight: Indicates hunting strategies, weapon design, and technological adaptation.
- Regional Styles: Examples include the Elko Corner Notch (Great Basin) and Cottonwood Corner Notch (California/Nevada).
🛠 Examples
- Elko Corner Notch (~1500–500 BCE, Great Basin): Broad blade, deep corner notches, used for darts.
- Cottonwood Corner Notch (California/Nevada): Smaller triangular form, shallow notches, often arrow points.
- Woodland Period Points (Eastern US): Corner-notched styles used for both spears and arrows.
✨ Summary
A corner-notched point is a hafting style in lithic technology where notches are cut into the basal corners of a projectile point, creating barbs and stems for secure attachment. These points are culturally diagnostic and provide insight into prehistoric hunting and tool-making traditions.
