![]() ![]() An obsidian blade measures in at only 30 angstroms, making it very useful in precise cutting. The average household razor blade is somewhere between 300 and 600 angstroms (unit of measurement used to measure blade fineness). Obsidian has incredibly useful and unique properties. ![]() Obsidian is especially useful for its sharp properties, and this is the reason obsidian tools are still on the market and being studied and used in the twenty first century. Arrowheads would only be found in areas where hunting by bow and arrow was prevalent. Most likely, one knife symbolizes many things - determination, skill, accomplishment, loss, authority, victory and honor.Two arrowheads produced from obsidian through the process of knapping. It could evoke a darker history of betrayal or revenge. It could make one think of a young family preparing a meal together. Native American weaponry, particularly a finely crafted knife, is inspiring. The final product was highly personal and rich in meaning. Making his knife was a spiritual experience. He was humbly grateful for the stones, plants and animals provided for his use. Intimacy with nature and respect for the environment are integral parts of worship.įor that reason, a man probably chose the materials for his knife with great care and deep reverence. Their beliefs are so complex and ingrained that they’re almost impossible to explain to people who are not immersed in the culture. Native Americans were and are deeply spiritual people. Knives were often passed down in families and treated with nothing short of awe. Making a knife was hard, time-consuming work that Native American artisans took great pride in. These sheaths and pouches, decorated with feathers, fringe and brightly colored beadwork, display extraordinary talent and attention to detail. Still today, women carry these types of knives inside their tops for protection. A smaller, lighter tool about the size of a pocketknife was worn in a pouch tied around the neck. The largest knife was carried in a leather sheath at the waist. Since the blades are longer and are crafted of stainless steel, they were obviously made after the Europeans arrived and influenced design. Some rare knives have inlaid turquoise in the handle. Men painstakingly decorated the handles with fitted antler carvings, fur or animal feet. Each reflects the needs and unique personality of the craftsman, so no two are alike. Unlike modern store-bought knives, Native American knives are works of art. ![]() Making knives was one of the most important roles of every male head of household. Simply put, knives may have been as ubiquitous as cellphones are today. Small knives were even used as eating utensils. Throwing a knife in battle required precision, skill and a perfectly weighted weapon. Native Americans also used knives in warfare, much of it intertribal. Knives and daggers were necessary for hunting, cutting meat, processing animal hides, cleaning fish, mending shoes, woodworking and performing first aid. They might be curved or straight, lightweight or heavy.Īfter Europeans introduced metalworking with iron and steel, knives became harder, more durable and easier to sharpen. Different blades were fashioned for specific purposes such as cutting, thrusting, slicing or slashing. Compared to the swords that Europeans favored at the time, Native American knives had significantly shorter blades. Blades were usually attached to handles with a tough cord made of animal sinew and glue made of tree resin. Handles were carved from wood, antler or animal horn. Making a sturdy blade involved hours of grinding, sharpening and polishing. Copper blades became popular among tribes in the Northwest. Later on, bone, antler and even oyster shell came into use. The first Native American knives were made of sharpened stone like flint, obsidian or chert. In so many ways, a quality knife could mean the difference between survival and death. Of all Native American weaponry, lancets, spears, tomahawks, and bows and arrows, knives were the most useful and versatile.Ĭonsidering that the natives hunted their own food and made their own homes, boats, clothes, cradles, bed frames, traps, musical instruments and more, it’s easy to see how knives would come in handy. ![]()
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