Crafting a Self Bow and Arrows from Raw Wood

Build a self bow and matched arrows from raw wood. A properly tillered bow launches arrows effectively at 15-25 meters. Links to cordage and flint knapping blueprints.

Advanced

2-3 days (multiple sessions)

Instructions

Select Stave

Straight hardwood: yew, ash, elm, or hickory. 150-170cm (ground to chin). Must be dry. The back (target side) = one continuous growth ring, never cut across grain. Avoid: pine, spruce (too soft).

Shape & Nock

Mark 10cm handle at center. Taper limbs from handle to tips. D-shaped cross-section: flat back, rounded belly. Cut shallow string nocks at each tip.

Design

Cross-section diagram of bow stave showing flat back, rounded belly, taper profile

Tiller

String loosely, pull a few cm. Both limbs must bend evenly. Shave belly where stiff — tiny amounts only. Gradually increase draw. Target: 15-25kg draw weight.

Bowstring

Reverse-wrap cord from strong plant fibers (see cordage blueprint). Wax with beeswax. 15cm shorter than bow for proper tension.

Arrow Shafts

Straight shoots (dogwood, willow), 70-80cm, 8-10mm diameter. Peel, dry, straighten over coals. Cut nock at one end.

Fletch & Point

3 split feathers per arrow, 10-12cm long, bound with sinew and pine pitch. Points: knapped flint, hardwood, or fire-hardened tips. Balance point 10-15% forward of center.

Materials

•Hardwood stave (150-170cm) - 1 piecePlaceholder
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•Arrow shoots - 6 piecessPlaceholder
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•Feathers - 6 featherssPlaceholder
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•Strong cordage - 2 meterssPlaceholder
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•Pine pitch glue - 1 stickPlaceholder
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Tools Required

Knife or hatchetPlaceholder
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FirePlaceholder
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