Flint was a vitally important resource for prehistoric societies who put it to a diverse range of uses. Chris Butler has created a concise guide to recognising and categorising British prehistoric flintwork. The author begins by looking at the different sources of flint that were exploited by prehistoric peoples, and explains why flint was such a widely used raw material. He then discusses how to recognise prehistoric worked flint and explores the different technologies that were used to work flint and make tools.

Flintknapping techniques used in each period of prehistory are illustrated, along with detailed techniques used in each period of prehistory are illustrated, along with detailed descriptions of the variety of implements produced and their associated diagnostic waste material. The flintwork from a number of case-study sites and the eventual decline in the importance of flint. The book also explores what the analysis of flintwork can tell us about society and past use of the landscape.