Do you want to become an expert archer but don't have the financial means to buy or rent a good set of bow and arrow? Here are the instructions to build them yourself!
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Collect and Prepare the Material
Step 1. Find the freshest lumber possible
The ideal would be to cut a branch directly from the tree, but you can still find and obtain wood in other ways as well. The ideal branch will be flexible and elastic, so that it immediately returns to its place once folded, and with a slight natural curvature.
Make sure you have permission to use the wood you are taking. Your neighbors may not like it if you cut down their trees, while some plants in parks or forests may be sensitive or endangered. Get informed first
Step 2. Clean the branch
Remove all unnecessary side branches, you can leave one in the middle of the bow to use as a sight for the arrow. Remove the bark to make the bow more comfortable to hold and the arrow easier to draw.
Step 3. Find the rope
The ideal string will be about 6 inches shorter than the bow, as thin and solid as possible.
Step 4. Arrows require special wood
Find sticks that are thin, light, and sturdy. These elements will help make the arrow fly fast and straight.
Method 2 of 4: Arch
Step 1. Make two notches
About a couple of inches from each end of the branch, cut two slits that will hold the rope; both should be angled towards the branch so that the string can stay in place.
Step 2. Secure the rope
Tie a nice solid knot at the top notch and then pull the string tight to make sure it stays in place.
Step 3. Check the length of the string
Tie a knot at the other end. The string must be about 15 cm shorter than the length of the bow; it will serve to give the right tension and curvature once you have strung the bow.
Step 4. String the bow
Bend the bow and slowly pull the bottom knot until you reach the slit at the other end. If you've done everything correctly, the string should be tight and give the bow a slight bend.
Step 5. Remove the string when you are done practicing
If left strung for too long, the bow will risk breaking or losing tension.
Method 3 of 4: Arrows
Step 1. Attach the arrowhead
Use a stone or other small, blunt object to tape over the tip of your arrow. You could also tape the entire end of the arrow to reduce damage from impact. The tip should be the heaviest part, to allow the arrow to go farther.
Step 2. Attach the fletching
The fletching consists of 2 or 3 feathers, natural or artificial, located on the back of the arrow, with the function of stabilizing it and maintaining its trajectory during flight. If you don't know how, ask someone more experienced or look for instructions and tutorials on the internet.
Step 3. Carve the nock
Use a knife and cut a slit at the end without the tip to make the nock of the arrow. It will serve to connect and hold the arrow firmly in the string.
Method 4 of 4: What Now?
Step 1. Practice
Find a safe environment where you can practice the new bow and arrows you have built. Remember: becoming good in any field always takes a lot of practice; it can take years to become very good. Be patient!
Step 2. Use the right targets
Make a target out of straw or foam rubber, using cardboard as a lining. If you are aiming at a fence, use a mat to protect the arrows. If they hit the fence or gate directly, they will most likely break.
Step 3. Train
You may feel the need to learn more about archery. In many places you can find local teams, gyms, schools and community centers that offer free or cheap archery courses. Following proper training will make your skills better, your shots safer and more fun.
Step 4. Be cautious
Do not do anything dangerous that could lead you to harm yourself or others. A bow is not a toy and it will hurt a lot if you hit someone. Do not even use it to hunt animals; in addition to being ineffective, it is also quite cruel.
Step 5. Use common sense
Do not use this weapon as a personal defense. If you find yourself in unpleasant situations, with a stranger in the house or in any other context where you feel threatened, it is definitely better to call the police.
