How to Make American Indian Arrows

American Indian arrows with obsidian heads

American Indian arrows were projectiles made of natural materials. Obsidian or stone provided a sharp cutting or slicing edge. It took time to learn the arrowmaker's craft. The material would be split and shaped and the point was then attached to a shaft of wood, reed or cane. Arrows proved useful in hunting and warfare. You can make American Indian arrowheads with some practice.

Things You'll Need

• Obsidian
• Small stone or pebble
• Deer antler, horn or similar wooden object

Instructions

1. Begin with a piece of obsidian. Obsidian is natural glass and is usually found in areas of volcanic activity. Look for a piece that appears to have a natural edge. The piece should also be easy to split and work. A large rock or boulder of natural glass can also be broken into smaller pieces.

2. Find another small stone or pebble. It should be hard yet easy to hold in your hand. Strike the stone against the side of the piece of obsidian until you obtain a piece that is approximately 3 inches long, 2 inches wide, and 1/2-inch thick. Shards of natural glass will flake off as you work.

3. Use a deer antler or similarly-shaped wooden object to pry off smaller pieces of obsidian. Place the point of the antler against the area you want to shape. Strike the top of the antler with the stone. A small chip of natural glass will fly off with one blow. Gradually work the piece of natural glass into the shape of an arrowhead.

4. Continue taking off tiny pieces of glass. Strike off bits around the edges until the edges are smooth and sharp. Shape each side evenly. The arrowhead must be symmetrical to work properly. Reduce the thickness of the edges to about 1/8 of an inch. Work the tip into a point.

Tips & Warnings

• Try making obsidian-style American Indian arrows out of bits of regular glass or the ends of glass bottles.

• Use sinew or string to attach the arrowhead to a shaft .

• Be careful of flying glass and always wear protective goggles.

Resources

• Purchase obsidian arrowheads
• Obsidian arrowheads for sale