Hand-Forged Fire Arrowhead with Flame-Shaped Cage

Hand-Forged Fire Arrowhead with Flame-Shaped Cage

Inspired by Medieval Incendiary Arrows

This medieval arrowhead draws inspiration from European incendiary projectiles used during the 14th and 15th centuries. Fire arrows and incendiary crossbow bolts were primarily associated with siege warfare. Rather than being intended to penetrate armour, their purpose was to transfer fire to vulnerable wooden structures, roofs, stored supplies and siege equipment.

Historical incendiary arrowheads appeared in several forms. Some had elongated or flattened sections to support combustible material, whilst others employed cage-like metal frameworks. The three intertwined bars of this model interpret that principle as a stylised flame. It should therefore be regarded as a historically inspired reconstruction rather than an exact copy of one particular archaeological find.

Appearance and Hand-Forged Construction

The arrowhead is individually forged from iron and retains a dark, natural blacksmith’s finish. Its cylindrical socket flows into an open cage formed by several curved bars. These cross over one another before converging towards a flat triangular point.

Minor irregularities, hammer marks and slight variations in shape or surface are natural features of handmade metalwork. The open flame cage makes the arrowhead especially effective when displayed on a complete arrow, placed in a cabinet or incorporated into an educational presentation about medieval siege warfare. Its dramatic design also suits non-functional fantasy equipment for archers, rangers and guardians.

Fitting It to a Decorative Arrow Shaft

The socket opening measures approximately 8 mm or 5/16 inch. To make a decorative medieval arrow, carefully shape the end of a wooden shaft until it fits snugly inside the socket. Do not force the shaft into place or attempt to spread the forged socket. After checking the dry fit, the parts may be secured with a suitable adhesive intended for joining wood and metal.

Because the point is sharp and the open forged structure has not been supplied with certified ballistic specifications, we do not recommend shooting this arrowhead. Always use approved padded safety arrows for LARP, stage combat and training.

Technical Specifications

Care and Safe Handling

• Wipe the arrowhead dry after handling and apply a thin coat of gun oil or metal preservation oil.
• Store it in a dry place, as the natural iron surface can develop corrosion when exposed to moisture.
• Do not leave it inside damp leather and avoid prolonged contact with salt or acidic substances.
• Remove light surface rust carefully with fine steel wool or a very fine abrasive pad and a small amount of oil.
• The point can cause puncture or cutting injuries. Keep it away from children and fit a rigid point protector during transport.
• Do not ignite the arrowhead or place combustible material inside the cage. Doing so creates a serious risk of fire, burns and property damage.
• Never shoot it at targets, hard objects, people or animals.
• Do not use this metal arrowhead for LARP, stage combat or contact activities.

Recommended Accessories

• Wooden arrow shaft of a suitable diameter for assembling a static 14th–15th-century display arrow.
• Natural feather fletching and linen thread for a historically styled decorative finish.
• Medieval leather quiver in a 14th- or 15th-century style for displaying a complete archery set.
• Wooden arrow or bow stand for safe presentation in an armoury, shop display or home interior.
• Rigid point protector for safer storage and transport.
• Weapon maintenance oil and a soft cotton cloth for regular care.