[1][2] The arms are largely based on those of Hendon, with additions for other towns merged with it.

[3][4] The winged airscrew in the crest, from the crest of the Borough of Hendon, refers to the former borough's links with aviation as the headquarters of the Royal Air Force was situated there.

The lion was derived from the Compton family arms, former holders of the Manor of Finchley while the stag symbolised the game once hunted by Tudor monarchs in the forests in this area.

The stag can possibly also be seen to refer to the hart supporters in the arms of Hertfordshire County Council; before 1965, the towns of Barnet and East Barnet were situated in Hertfordshire.

Both supporters have crosses on them, symbols of the Knights of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem, who held the ancient priory in Friern Barnet.