Described is an experiment utilizing backed obsidian blades for animal skinning. The tests indicate that the cutting of soft tissue results in edge damage to the blades; heavy edge damage can result from contact with bone; direction of use can be deduced from the nature of edge damage; discard of a blade during use is probably related to fat build up along the edge; theedge damage from use probably will not be visible in case of extensive post depositional modification. Examination was done with a binocular microscope at 30x. Two large male goats were skinned by an experienced skinner. -- AATA