The chart below is for help in choosing the right billet for your needs, knapping style and budget. ALL the tools on our site are proven tools and are favorites amongst the best knappers in America. These billets are no exception. They all have their strong points and weak points. This information will help you find the compromise that works best for you.


       There are 2 main types of billets: Antler & copper. There are 4 types of copper billets below. The easiest way to explain these tools is by a chart.

Billet Comparison Chart
Billet Type	Cost (1 = cheapest)	Durability ( 5 = best)	Ease Of Use ( 5 = best)	Versatility ( 5 = best)	Attributes And Other Comments
Copper Boppers	1	2	5	3	Excellent performance. The best billet for the money, but will not hold up to miss use and abuse. By majority, a favorite tool with a "weight forward" feel that provides accuracy and a fast swing. Forgiving to error, but they will eventually wear out.
Solid Head Copper Boppers	3	4	5	3	This billet has the same advantages as the "Bopper Billets" but have a durable solid copper head that will hold up longer than you will. More expensive due to machining costs of the handles and expensive copper. It boasts strong durability, accuracy, forgiveness and will out last any lead filled Bopper Billet.
Solid Copper Billets	4	5	2	5	Larger sizes of this type are used almost exclusively by knappers for rock hunting and heavy work. The smaller sizes work great, but are less forgiving because of their heavier weight. A good choice if your having trouble with dings and denting with the copper boppers, denting on the copper boppers is a result of over use or poor platform construction.
Flat Paddle Billets	3	4	3	4	Made popular by knappers in the southern states like Texas and Louisiana, these also are a proven tool with a special attribute of the user being able to "rake" the edge of the preform with the flat part of the copper bar to make fast platforms when roughing out the preform. This has an abrading affect. Accuracy is great too as you will benefit from the weight forward design. A cool tool.
Moose & Antler Billets	5	3	1	3	Moose and other antler tools work great but are expensive and can take longer to master. Generally someone will choose this route when they are determined to do things the traditional way. Antler tends to leave a smaller "bulb of percussion" than copper. In the hands of and expert, the battle between copper and Moose is a close one! Antler billets are a very challenging item to keep in stock. Availability is inconsistent. So, email me or keep checking back.