Longbow Instructions

The simplest form of the archery bow is the longbow. The basic design is thousands of years old and was the weapon of choice for countless wars and battles in history and a hunting weapon for the hunters and gathers of early history. The design of the bow is simple enough to be constructed by a do-it-yourselfer with a few simple hand tools. The skills necessary to efficiently use the bow can be learned with practice.

  1. Building a Longbow

    • A longbow is built from a single piece of wood. According to the Combrobi website (see the link in Resources), the starting bow blank is a piece of wood 1 1/2 inches square and as long as the bowman is tall. Look for clear wood with few or no knots and a tight consistent straight grain. Ash wood is commonly used for bows but any straight grained wood will work.

      The blank is then trimmed with a knife, hatchet or saw to the final shape of the bow. Uniformity is important, and each end of the finished bow should be identical in taper. Once the bow is carved to its final shape, nocks (the notches on each end of the bow to hold the bow string) and the hand hold (usually a leather wrap at the center of the bow) are added.

      Gradually work with the bow. Start by partially drawing the bow and gradually releasing it. Work to full draw and fire the bow over the course of several days.

    Stringing a Longbow

    • Stringing a high-power longbow can be difficult if not done correctly. Place the loop of the bow string over the top end of the bow and slide it down the bow far enough to hook the string on the bottom nocks. Step through the gap between the bow and bowstring with the left foot and place the front of the bottom of the bow against the right ankle. Use the left hand to advance the top of the bow until the bowstring can be hooked on the top nock.

    Shooting a Longbow

    • A longbow usually requires longer arrows than a recurve or compound bow. Once the bowman has the proper equipment--the bow, arrows and hand and forearm protection--he can begin shooting his bow. Practice establishing a firm anchor point and a smooth release. Over time, the bowman will become an accomplished longbowman.

    Maintaining a Longbow

    • A longbow requires some maintenance. Store the bow in a stable environment with little variance in temperature or humidity. Store the bow on its back on a flat surface or hanging by the nocks of one end. Make sure nothing is pressing on the bow or bending the wood while it is at rest. Seal any scratches in the bows with an oil finish. This helps keep the moisture content within the wood of the bow stable.