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The percussion method of striking flint against pyrites was restricted to South Australia, where flint was available.
Two stones such as flint and ironstone are struck together to cleave off small shards of ironstone. These shards, having been heated by friction between the two stones, spontaneously ignite as they oxidise in contact with the air, producing high temperature sparks. The sparks are directed onto the tinder to set it alight.
The percussion fire method is one of the oldest and most important fire-making methods in human history. It is thought to have been used by our ancestors for over 400,000 years. The method involves striking two hard objects together, such as flint and pyrite, to create a spark. This spark can then be used to ignite tinder, such as dry grass or leaves. The percussion fire method was essential for human survival in the early days of our evolution. It allowed us to cook food, keep warm, and protect ourselves from predators. It also allowed us to expand our range into colder climates. In addition to its practical importance, the percussion fire method also had a significant cultural impact. It was often associated with religious and spiritual beliefs. For example, many Native American tribes believed that fire was a gift from the gods and that the percussion fire method was a sacred way to create it. The percussion fire method remained the primary method of fire-making until the invention of the match in the 19th century. However, it is still used today by some traditional cultures and in survival situations.