Knapping is the process of shaping stone to create tools or weapons by striking it with another hard object. This technique has been used for thousands of years, primarily by early humans to produce sharp edges for cutting and hunting. Common materials used in knapping include flint, obsidian, and chert.
The art of knapping involves careful control of force and angle to remove small flakes from the stone, resulting in a desired shape. Skilled knappers can create various tools, such as arrowheads, scrapers, and blades, which were essential for survival in prehistoric times.