Hafting in the Andes

Archaeological evidence shows that bifacially flaked obsidian implements were hafted in a variety of ways. The majority of the hafting evidence from the Andes comes from coastal sites due to superior preservation. Projectile points were hafted to spears, spear thrower darts, and arrow shafts. Obsidian bifacial tools were also hafted to wood or bone handles for use as knives. Hafting materials varied regionally, but hafting was often accomplished using gum or resin, and hafts supported with cotton string have been found in some coastal sites (Carmichael, et al. 1998: 79).