How to Make Arrowheads: Step-by-Step Projectile Point Creation - Part 1

Creating functional arrowheads represents one of humanity's most enduring technological achievements, with projectile points spanning over 100,000 years of innovation. From the earliest bone points of the Middle Stone Age to the exquisite Clovis points of Ice Age America, projectile technology revolutionized hunting and warfare. This comprehensive guide teaches you how to make arrowheads using traditional flintknapping techniques, progressing from simple triangular points to complex notched designs. Whether crafting hunting arrows, creating museum replicas, or exploring ancestral skills, mastering arrowhead production connects you directly to the ingenious minds who first conceived of launching sharp stones through the air to strike distant targets. ### The Science of Projectile Point Design Effective arrowhead design balances multiple competing factors: penetration capability, aerodynamic efficiency, hafting security, and manufacturing feasibility. Understanding these design principles enables creation of points optimized for specific applications rather than generic forms lacking functional excellence. Penetration mechanics involve complex interactions between point geometry, target properties, and impact dynamics. The tip angle significantly influences penetration, with acute angles (25-35 degrees) maximizing penetration depth in soft targets while broader angles (35-45 degrees) provide durability for bone impact. Cross-sectional geometry affects both penetration and wound channel creation, with lenticular (lens-shaped) cross-sections offering optimal compromise between strength and cutting efficiency. Aerodynamic considerations become critical for arrow flight stability. Point weight must balance with arrow shaft and fletching characteristics to achieve proper front-of-center (FOC) balance. Typically, points comprising 10-20% of total arrow weight provide stable flight. Symmetry proves essential—even minor asymmetries create rotation and trajectory deviation. Surface texture influences drag coefficients, with smooth surfaces reducing air resistance. Hafting requirements dictate basal design elements. The attachment area must provide sufficient surface for adhesive bonding while preventing rotation under impact stress. Notched designs mechanically lock points to shafts, while stemmed varieties rely on binding friction. Basal width should match shaft diameter within 10-15% for optimal strength. Sharp basal edges risk cutting hafting materials during impact stress. Material efficiency shaped point evolution throughout prehistory. Skilled knappers maximize point production from limited high-quality stone through efficient reduction strategies. Archaeological studies show experienced knappers average 15-25 complete points per kilogram of quality material. Design standardization enabled predictable material requirements and systematic production. Functional categorization of projectile points reveals design optimization for specific uses: - Hunting points: Emphasize penetration and cutting - War points: Prioritize damage and difficulty of removal - Target points: Focus on durability and accuracy - Fishing points: Feature barbs for retention - Bird points: Utilize blunt trauma designs - Small game points: Miniaturized proportions ### Selecting and Preparing Stone for Arrowheads Arrowhead production demands the highest quality stone available. Unlike larger tools tolerating minor flaws, projectile points require flawless material throughout. Small inclusions causing negligible issues in knife blades prove catastrophic in delicate arrowhead tips. Systematic material selection and preparation prevents wasted effort on doomed pieces. Optimal characteristics for arrowhead stone: - Homogeneous structure without variations - Grain size below 0.5 microns ideal - Absence of fossils or inclusions - Consistent color indicating uniformity - Conchoidal fracture quality rating 9+/10 - Thickness potential for intended point size Material rankings for arrowhead production: Obsidian (10/10): Ultimate arrowhead material. Perfect homogeneity enables predictable reduction. Extreme sharpness maximizes penetration. Brittleness requires careful handling but rewards with spectacular points. High-grade flint/chert (9/10): Excellent workability with good durability. Heat treatment often improves quality further. Wide availability enables practice without precious material waste. Novaculite (9/10): Exceptional fineness challenges beginners but produces superior edges. Arkansas varieties particularly suitable. Requires patient work with light percussion. Agate/Jasper (8/10): Beautiful materials creating stunning points. Quality varies requiring careful selection. Smaller nodules limit point sizes but encourage efficiency. Quartzite (6/10): Coarser grain limits refinement but creates durable hunting points. Select finest-grained varieties. Heat treatment essential for workability. Initial material preparation sequence: 1. Inspect thoroughly using backlighting 2. Remove any weathered cortex completely 3. Test quality creating sample flakes 4. Cut or spall to appropriate sizes 5. Consider heat treatment timing 6. Sort by quality and intended use Preform creation strategies: - Bifacial reduction from small cobbles - Flake blank selection and trimming - Blade core production for consistency - Slab cutting for maximum efficiency - Recycling broken tool fragments - Trade acquisition of prepared preforms ### Basic Arrowhead Shapes and Their Functions Understanding traditional arrowhead morphologies provides foundation for creating functional points. Each shape evolved to solve specific challenges, offering modern knappers tested designs proven through millennia of use. Master basic forms before attempting complex variations. Triangular Points Simple triangular points represent humanity's most enduring projectile design. These unfilled triangles maximize cutting edge while minimizing production complexity. Archaeological examples span continents and time periods, testament to the design's effectiveness. Triangular point advantages: - Maximum cutting edge length - Simple production sequence - Efficient material utilization - No hafting notch weakness - Easy resharpening potential - Broad wound channel creation Manufacturing sequence: 1. Create triangular preform 2. Establish straight base edge 3. Thin systematically below 5mm 4. Pressure flake edges sharp 5. Achieve symmetrical form 6. Polish base preventing shaft damage Leaf-Shaped Points Willow leaf and laurel leaf shapes provide elegant solutions balancing penetration with durability. The curved edges concentrate force at tips while maintaining strength through graduated thickness. Leaf point characteristics: - Graceful aesthetic appeal - Self-centering in targets - Reduced air resistance - Natural strength distribution - Versatile size scaling - Cultural significance globally Creating leaf-shaped points: 1. Begin with oval preform 2. Establish maximum width location 3. Taper gradually toward ends 4. Maintain lenticular cross-section 5. Create delicate tips last 6. Achieve flowing curves throughout Stemmed Points Stemmed varieties facilitate hafting through constricted bases fitting into split shafts. This mechanical advantage allows smaller adhesive contact areas while preventing point loss. Stemmed point variations: - Contracting stems tapering to base - Straight stems maintaining width - Expanding stems flaring outward - Shouldered stems with abrupt transitions - Beveled stems for specific hafts - Multiple stems for specialized uses Stem creation methodology: 1. Complete point body first 2. Mark stem location precisely 3. Create shoulders through pressure 4. Narrow stem gradually 5. Round stem edges preventing cuts 6. Test fit in sample shaft Notched Points Notching represents sophisticated hafting technology enabling secure mechanical attachment. Various notch positions serve different hafting traditions while maintaining point integrity. Notch position options: - Side notches perpendicular to axis - Corner notches at 45-degree angles - Basal notches from bottom edge - Multiple notches for redundancy - Expanding notches for thick hafts - Minimal notches preserving strength ### Step-by-Step Arrowhead Creation Process This detailed sequence guides creation of a classic side-notched arrowhead suitable for hunting applications. Follow systematically while adapting to your specific material and skill level. Expect 50-80% success rates initially, improving with practice. Stage 1: Preform Preparation Starting material: High-quality flake or small biface 40-50mm long, 25-30mm wide, 8-10mm thick 1. Inspect for flaws using strong backlighting 2. Plan final shape considering material features 3. Create centered biface through alternating percussion 4. Reduce thickness to 6-7mm maintaining width 5. Establish slight lenticular cross-section 6. Leave edges dulled for safe handling Time estimate: 15-20 minutes Common errors: Over-thinning, edge damage, ignoring flaws Stage 2: Primary Shaping Objective: Create basic point outline 1. Mark centerline with pencil for reference 2. Establish tip location preserving length 3. Create shoulders 2/3 from tip 4. Narrow base to 15-18mm width 5. Maintain symmetry checking constantly 6. Achieve 5mm maximum thickness Technical notes: - Use soft hammer for control - Work systematically alternating faces - Platform angles 55-65 degrees optimal - Preserve width until final stages Time estimate: 20-30 minutes Success indicators: Symmetrical outline, appropriate proportions Stage 3: Final Thinning Goal: Reduce to final thickness of 3-4mm 1. Create continuous platforms along edges 2. Remove soft hammer thinning flakes 3. Drive flakes past center when possible 4. Address any thick spots immediately 5. Maintain flat to slightly lenticular section 6. Stop at 4mm preserving strength Critical techniques: - Below-centerline flaking essential - Support piece preventing breakage - Light percussion avoiding overshot - Patient systematic progression Time estimate: 30-45 minutes Failure points: Breakage from over-thinning, hinge fractures Stage 4: Notch Creation The most delicate operation requiring patience 1. Mark notch locations 20-25mm from tip 2. Create initial platforms above notches 3. Remove small pressure flakes establishing shape 4. Deepen gradually alternating sides 5. Achieve 4-5mm depth maintaining strength 6. Round notch interiors preventing cracks Notching strategies: - Support point in padded vise - Use fine-pointed pressure tools - Remove minimal material per flake - Test shaft fit frequently - Accept asymmetry over breakage Time estimate: 20-30 minutes Critical moment: First deep notch flake Stage 5: Edge Finishing Transform blank into functional point 1. Prepare platforms entire edge length 2. Pressure flake systematically from base 3. Create slight serrations if desired 4. Achieve hair-shaving sharpness 5. Carefully sharpen tip last 6. Remove any edge irregularities Edge geometry goals: - 15-20 degree edge angles - Consistent bevel both faces - No gaps in flaking pattern - Smooth flowing contours - Needle-sharp tip achievement Time estimate: 30-40 minutes Final thickness: 3-4mm throughout Stage 6: Final Inspection and Testing Quality control ensures functional success 1. Check symmetry from all angles 2. Verify smooth hafting area surfaces 3. Test edge sharpness carefully 4. Ensure tip alignment with axis 5. Examine for micro-cracks throughout 6. Compare proportions to examples Acceptance criteria: - Weight 2-5 grams typical - Length 30-40mm finished - Width 18-25mm maximum - No visible flaws present - Hafts securely in shaft Total time: 2-3 hours per point ### Advanced Arrowhead Techniques Beyond basic forms, advanced techniques create specialized points for specific applications. These methods challenge experienced knappers while producing exceptional results. Master fundamentals thoroughly before attempting advanced work. Fluting (Channel Flaking) Fluting removes longitudinal flakes from point faces, creating channels reducing thickness while maintaining width. This sophisticated technique, epitomized by Folsom points, demands perfect execution. Fluting requirements: - Exceptional quality stone mandatory - Precise platform preparation critical - Specialized tools often needed - Multiple practice attempts expected - Accept high failure rates - Plan entire reduction sequence Fluting process overview: 1. Complete point except final edges 2. Prepare nipple platforms at base 3. Support point preventing breakage 4. Drive flutes using indirect percussion 5. Match channels on both faces 6. Finish edges incorporating flutes Success strategies: - Practice on glass initially - Create multiple backup pieces - Document successful approaches - Study archaeological examples - Consider guided systems - Maintain realistic expectations Serration Techniques Functional serrations increase cutting efficiency dramatically. Regular serration patterns require systematic approach and patience. Archaeological examples show remarkable standardization suggesting specialized production. Serration design principles: - Tooth size matches intended use - Regular spacing improves function - Alternating angles increase effectiveness - Depth affects durability - Pattern consistency matters aesthetically - Edge geometry influences performance Creating effective serrations: 1. Complete point to near-final stage 2. Mark spacing using templates 3. Isolate platforms between teeth 4. Remove flakes creating valleys 5. Sharpen individual teeth carefully 6. Maintain pattern despite challenges Applications by size: - Micro-serrations (1-2mm): Hide cutting - Small serrations (2-4mm): General purpose - Large serrations (4-6mm): Bone cutting - Mega-serrations (6mm+): Specialized uses Artistic Elements Decorative flaking patterns demonstrate technical mastery while maintaining functionality. These elements distinguished master craftspeople throughout prehistory and continue captivating modern collectors. Decorative techniques include: - Parallel pressure flaking - Chevron patterns - Ripple flaking - Rainbow obsidian orientation - Differential heat treatment - Intentional asymmetry Balancing art with function: - Maintain structural integrity - Preserve hafting surfaces - Ensure penetration capability - Consider aerodynamic effects - Test functionality thoroughly - Document successful innovations ### Troubleshooting Common Arrowhead Problems Every knapper encounters persistent challenges requiring systematic solutions. Understanding common failure modes accelerates improvement while preventing discouragement. Most problems stem from rushing through critical stages. Problem: Points breaking during notching Causes and solutions: - Inadequate thickness: Maintain 4mm minimum - Poor support: Use padded vise systems - Excessive pressure: Reduce force dramatically - Deep initial cuts: Progress gradually - Material flaws: Inspect thoroughly first - Stress concentration: Round all corners Prevention strategy: Create practice notches on broken pieces before risking finished points Problem: Asymmetrical final forms Causes and solutions: - Poor initial layout: Mark centerlines clearly - Uneven reduction: Alternate faces religiously - Dominant hand bias: Consciously compensate - Inadequate checking: Verify constantly - Material variations: Select homogeneous stone - Rushed work: Slow down considerably Correction approach: Minor asymmetry acceptable if functional; severe cases require starting over Problem: Tips breaking repeatedly Causes and solutions: - Premature tip creation: Form tips last - Inadequate support: Protect during work - Over-thinning: Maintain strength balance - Poor stone quality: Upgrade materials - Technique errors: Review fundamentals - Storage damage: Create protective cases Tip preservation methods: Leave tips blunt until final stage, support carefully during edge work Problem: Excessive thickness Causes and solutions: - Conservative flaking: Take larger flakes - Poor platforms: Improve preparation - Wrong techniques: Use soft hammer - Angle problems: Drive below centerline - Material selection: Choose thinner blanks - Skill limitations: Practice systematically Thickness goals: 10:1 width-to-thickness ratio for finest work, 7:1 acceptable for hunting points ### Hafting Arrowheads: Traditional Methods Creating superior arrowheads means little without secure hafting. Traditional hafting methods evolved through millennia of trial and error, producing reliable systems using natural materials. Understanding these techniques enables creation of complete, functional arrows. Shaft Preparation Arrow shaft selection dramatically affects hafting success: - Straight-grained hardwoods ideal - Bamboo provides natural nodes - River cane offers lightweight strength - Carbon allows modern consistency - Diameter matches point proportions - Spine appropriate for bow weight Shaft end preparation: 1. Cut squarely using fine saw 2. Create self-nock or insert nock 3. Sand smooth removing splinters 4. Seal end grain preventing splits 5. Mark centerline for alignment 6. Test fit before final hafting Split shaft method: - Saw slot 20-30mm deep - Width matches point thickness - Compress slot testing spring - Sand interior surfaces smooth - Create slight taper if needed - Prepare adhesive surfaces Traditional Adhesives Natural adhesives provided secure bonding for millennia: Pine pitch mixture: - 4 parts pine resin - 1 part charcoal powder - 1 part herbivore dung fiber - Heat gently mixing thoroughly - Apply hot for best adhesion - Hardens durably when cool Hide glue preparation: - Simmer hide scraps 4-6 hours - Strain resulting liquid - Reduce to honey consistency - Apply warm to both surfaces - Clamp until fully cured - Resists moisture moderately Modern alternatives: - Two-part epoxy for permanence - Cyanoacrylate for quick assembly - Traditional recipes for authenticity - Reversible adhesives for research - Combination approaches common - Test thoroughly before hunting Binding Techniques Mechanical reinforcement ensures hafting security: Sinew wrapping: 1. Prepare sinew threads by separation 2. Soak until pliable 3. Begin wrapping below point 4. Overlap 50% each wrap 5. Continue past hafting junction 6. Tie off securely Plant fiber alternatives: - Dogbane provides exceptional strength - Nettle fibers resist decay - Artificial sinew convenient modern option - Waxed thread for practice - Color choices for aesthetics - Waterproofing essential outdoors Wrapping