Indian arrow heads are found all over the world. Usually made of stone – cherts, obsidian, or flint – arrow heads made of wood, bone, and metal have also been found. Arrow heads were put on spears and fired from bows, or they were attached to spe
Arrow heads are projectile points that date as far back as 14,000 years, during the late Paleolithic period. They were used for both hunting and warfare. In America, arrow heads from this period are from the first period in which Native American Indians inhabited North America. Examples from the Archaic period are more numerous and varied than arrow heads from any other era. Many of these were the first arrow heads that showed notches in them.
Arrow heads from North America’s Columbia River in Oregon and Washington, and the Snake River in the same region are made from a spectrum of agate materials and petrified wood. They are exceptionally beautiful and are quite valuable. Arrow heads of chert, agate, or Jasper have been found in many beautiful forms and colors, from warm, butter rum reds to icy greens found in types of chert. Obsidian arrow heads with serrated edges are exceptionally rare and prized, particularly if most of the serrations have survived intact.
In North America, arrow heads can be found in areas where Native Americans settled, particularly around creek beds and rivers. This was where it was often easier to hunt wild animals, in the place where they went to drink water. There is debate about whether it is OK to collect arrowheads, and the answer depends on where they are collected and what methods are used.
If you hunt arrow heads on private property, you must get permission from the owners of the property first. Even if they don’t know you’re there, it’s still trespassing. You should also offer to share any arrow heads found on his or her land. In most cases, public lands are off limits to those hunting for arrow heads. You should assume this is the case unless you have specific permission to do so.
Though finding an arrow head is a thrilling experience, many Native Americans are against digging for them. Many are also against trading in these types of artifacts, because once the location of them gets out, professional diggers may come and disturb the area for their own benefit. It is also important to note that some of the best hunting grounds for Indian arrow heads are remote places where there are snakes, and rugged terrain where falls can be dangerous. In warm climates, dehydration is a risk, and in cold areas, hypothermia is a risk.
Indian arrow heads are interesting and often beautiful artifacts. While finding one on a routine hike is one thing, digging up creek beds and disturbing natural areas, then selling your “loot” may cross the line into unethical or illegal behavior.
