It is difficult to assess the relative importance of technical and non-technical factors in inferring modes of technological decision-making in prehistory. Examination of pottery use technology among the Kalinga using both ethnoarchaeological material and laboratory analysis demonstrates the importance of not only technical (physical properties or functional), but also behavioral or social aspects of technological choices. Kalinga consumers may select pots for functional superiority, or for reasons of village allegiance. Explaining the resulting pattern in the material record requires attention to both technical and behavioral aspects of the pottery technology.