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sourcing flint

  • 17-06-2008 11:41AM
    #1
    irishlostboy
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 482 ✭✭


    i know this may not be the most ideal area to post this in, but there is no geology section of the boards.
    i am wondering where i can source/ find flint for making flint items.

    i use flint to light fires while out bushcrafting.
    http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=2055315103

    i am also interested in teaching myself basic flintnapping etc, but dont really know where to source the flint in the first place. if anyone has any suggestions would be very helpful. thanks.


Comments

  • #2
    Meathlass
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,023 ✭✭✭Meathlass


    Flint is found in limestone and generally erodes out of it as it's a much harder material. Commonly found along the coast in the form of pebbles. I know there are large concentrations in Antrim and Waterford but not sure about other places. I have several large boxes of flint here at the moment clogging up my desk but think the museum would have a problem if I gave it away!!

    As regards the flintknapping, we did it in college as part of degree and it's a lot harder than it looks but good fun. Maybe approach your local museum or failing that the National Museum. They might have a list of people who teach it.


  • #3
    irishlostboy
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 482 ✭✭irishlostboy


    thanks for the tips meathlass. there is a lot of limestone is Sligo (my home place, when i can get back there) so i will have to just keep my eyes open. i know a few people in Antrim also, so will try get them to keep an eye out.
    re; tutorials, i probably will be able to find someone in the bushcraft/traditional skills comunity that knows how it is done, once i get some flint :)
    thanks!


  • #4
    Meathlass
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,023 ✭✭✭Meathlass


    Yeah, should be lots of flint in Sligo. Take a walk along the base of cliffs and if the rock is limestone then there should be flint along the ground. If the tide comes up to the cliffs though it might get washed out or moved around with the sea. In Sligo maybe go into the Ceide Fields centre and have a chat with them. Seamus Caulfied who set it up is very approachable.


  • #5
    irishlostboy
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 482 ✭✭irishlostboy


    i have had a fella from antrim offer to send me a box of flint he has. so i am sorted for the moment. i will have to keep my eye open around the base of the cliffs of ben bulben though and try find my own. thanks for the good advice. much appreciated.


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