Making an Ötzi the Iceman Style Dagger

Introduction

• Ötzi the Iceman is a well-preserved mummy found with several artifacts.
• One artifact was a dagger.
• This guide shows how to make a replica dagger similar to Ötzi's.

Materials Needed

• Wooden Handle: Made from Ashwood.
  • Original handle was under 9 cm long.
  • Notches for blade and cordage.
• Stone Blade: Made from Flint.
  • Sharpen using hammerstone, antler, and abrasion techniques.

Crafting the Handle

1. Material: Ashwood.
2. Tools: Copper axe and flint tools for shaping.
3. Process:
   • Cut and shape while wood is green.
   • Dry and season the wood.
   • Carve grooves and notches.

Crafting the Blade

1. Material: Flint stone.
2. Tools: Hammerstone and antler for shaping.
3. Process:
   • Strike flint core to create sharp flakes.
   • Shape flakes into a biface.
   • Use pressure flaking tool to refine blade.
   • Compare to known dimensions: Modern length 6.4 cm, estimated original 7.3 cm.
   • Shape tang and blade notches.

Assembling the Dagger

1. Fitting the Blade:

   • Carve notch in handle for flint blade.
   • Insert flint blade into handle.

2. Securing the Blade:

   • Use sinew from elk tendon, wetted and softened.
   • Wrap sinew tightly around blade and handle.
   • Allow sinew to dry and shrink, securing the blade.

3. Adding Cordage:

   • Twist natural plant fibers using two-ply method.
   • Wrap the back of the handle with cordage.

Historical Context and Considerations

• Original artifacts were damaged during recovery with ice picks.
• Debate on dagger vs. fire striker:
  • Some believe it was used to make fire.
  • Dagger has two cutting edges, more like a pocket knife.

Conclusion

• A replica of Ötzi's dagger can be created using traditional techniques.
• Future video will cover making the scabbard from tree bark and grass twine.

Upcoming Content

• How to make the Scabbard using double plating weaving technique.
• Explanation of use of plant fiber instead of leather for scabbard.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Ötzi's dagger from materials to historical insights, offering a practical approach to creating a similar artifact.