Examining stage and continuum models of flake debris analysis: An experimental approach

Flake debris produced from a number of flintknapping experiments is used to explore stage and continuum models of lithic reduction. Using metric attributes, flakes produced during core reduction are separated from those produced during tool production. Theoretically, this should allow the utilization of continuum approaches in the analysis of archaeological assemblages that represent a mix of reduction strategies (i.e., core reduction and tool production). Further, continuum based analyses are refined by providing a standardized scale. Although this work demonstrates the potential utility of a continuum based model for analysing archaeological lithic assemblages, stage analyses retain utility and can be fruitfully used in conjunction with the refined continuum model developed here.