One of the oldest arrow types in use is the Saro-type arrowhead. It's a traditional arrowhead made by the Santal tribe of India. The Santal tribe is one of the largest and prominent tribal communities in Jharkhand, growing to Odisha. . It reflects the deeply ingrained hunting traditions and fine metal crafts of this tribe.
It is made from iron, shaped like a complete point for penetration. There is a definite prominent central ridge that runs from the point to the base, working principles for structural reinforcement as well as aerodynamic performance. At the base, sharp pointed barbs are present, to prevent easy removal and hold the arrow securely into the target. Tang of short dimensions overall extends from the base, used to insert and fix the arrowhead firmly into a wooden or bamboo shaft.
Hunting was the traditional purpose of the Saro, together with a few related gratuitous tribal conflicts. Its practical and symbolic cultural value is in the Santal predictable norm associated with the forest and their way of self-sustaining life.