what does an abraider do?

[blackpanem]

what does an abraider rock do? i have wondered for a while but never really figured it out

[Will H]

Simply put. It strengthens the edge so a flake can be better removed. 
~Will

[Tower]

Fine or sharp edges do not flake when pressure or precussion force is applied. They crush! The loss of energy can ruin or create a trouble place oN the biface that can be a pain to remove later. But don't abrade too much you might snap the point.

[Will H]

I second what Tower said. As for how much to abrade. Typically the weaker the material the more you need to abrade. For instance, obsidian need alot of grinding to get the strength up on your platform while most TX material need alot less because the rock is so much stonger. Although to much grinding on any stone can round your platform and cause you not to be able to take a flake. Try to hard and it breaks.   

[blackpanem]

ok thanks everyone!