Hello Folks,

One of the reasons why I knap my own flints is that I’m interested in the process, including the materials. I use American flint, which isn’t as good as English or French flint, but it’s what I have. Surprisingly, I found a nice nodule on Cape Hatteras a couple of weeks ago.

I’m also familiar with agate rifle flints, which are sawn rather than knapped. Although I own two, they are sealed in the original packaging, as I bought them only to learn about them. I do not own any lapidary equipment, so could not reproduce agate flints. I wouldn’t use them because they just don’t look right.

More high-tech flints exist, as I’ve read about ceramic flints. Supposedly they are so stout that they outlast any traditional or sawn agate flint. I’ve never seen one, or even a picture of one, and I would like to know more about them. Have any of you ever seen, used, or know where to find ceramic flints? What can you tell me about them? My interest is purely academic, but I might purchase one or two for my collection.

Thank you.