Edge sharpness does not vary between Palaeolithic flake technologies, with the possible exception of Levallois débitage

Abstract

Investigating why hominins adopted particular flake technologies during the Mid-to-Late Pleistocene is essential to understanding patterns of lithic innovation. This period witnessed the emergence of Levallois technologies (~350-250 ka) and later blades, each “replacing” earlier forms. While prior studies have emphasised technological efficiency and utility, comparative assessments of functional performance – particularly edge sharpness – are limited. The controlled cutting experiment conducted here broadly reveals no significant differences in sharpness between expedient, Levallois, blade, and bladelet flakes; however, Levallois débitage displayed significantly blunter edges. These results suggest functional limitations to débitage and imply edge sharpness did not drive flake technological change.