Archery; It’s more of a skill than it is a sport. Plus, the amazing feeling of hitting your target after you release the arrow from the bow is an amazing feeling. And, this makes this sport quite fun and healthy at the same time.
However, buying the right bow and arrow can be quite confusing, but not to worry as in this article we will go through the brief history of archery and then indulge in the different equipment types that are involved in this wonderful sport.
What is Archery; A Historical View
Archery comes from the Latin word “arcus” and this word has always meant a “bow” and an “arrow” in human history.
Although, no set date has been labelled by the historians about its invention, however the most probable period in which it was invented was the early Mesolithic periods.
This means that a bow and arrow has been used by humans since 9000 BC. However, archery was a form of combat rather than a sport at that time and was also widely used by hunters.
But, in today’s time we see the modern form that this sport has taken as it is only seen as a competition nowadays and various tournaments are held of this sport throughout the year.
Equipment & Types
It doesn’t take much for a person to guess as to what form of equipment is used in this sport. Yes, you guessed correctly it’s a bow and an arrow. In the past, arrows were made of pine wood and their length ranged from 5.9-7.9 inches.
On the other hand, the standard of bow was not really set, as different types were used since their invention.
However, both the bow and arrow have evolved over the years as they have been made better and more accurate nowadays.
So, here’s a look at some popular types of bow and arrow that are prevalent in the contemporary world.
Recurve Bows
A bow that is perfect for a beginner, Recurve Bow got its name because of its shape. The design of this bow is what allows a newbie to not exert enough power as it automatically generated because of the curve it has in its structure.
It is a good practice for a novice archer to start with this bow and then as he becomes more skilled, only then he should move on to the advanced recurve bows.
Compound Bows
Lightweight and Accuracy. These are the two words that are more than enough to describe this bow. Invented in the 1960s, many modifications have been made to this bow as it has been made lighter and much better over the years.
This type of bow totally runs mechanically as it operates on cables, pulleys and cams that helps an archer to hold heavy draw weights while he is fully drawn the bow.
What makes this bow more energy-efficient and accurate are limbs as they are much stiffer if compared with other bows. Moreover, the reason why this bow is extremely light-weight is because materials like aluminum, carbon, magnesium and fiberglass are used in its making.
Longbows
This one is a traditional bow that dates back to the late 13th century. Simplicity is the defining trait of this bow and the bow is made from a curved piece of wood and its length is the same as that of a archer that is using it.
Mastering this bow is an artform as there are no arrow rests or sights on this bow which makes it very challenging to hit the target accurately.
Arrows
An arrow is made up of 4 parts i.e. Point, Shaft, Fletchings and a Nock. Although, custom-made arrows are available in the market, however it is best if you buy each part separately.
Arrow Points
This is the part that hits the target as it is located at the front of the arrow.
Popular Types of Points
Some of the most common points available in the market are:
Field Points:
These type of arrow points are built for the best aerodynamic flight and are ideal for any type of shooting.
Grabbing Points:
These are designed specifically for field practice and normally used under simulated conditions in which stumps, leaves or sticks are the main target.
Fishing Points
Made of steel, these points as evident by the name are made to penetrate the rigid skins of gar, carp or other rough skin fishes.
Blunt Points:
These are flat instead of being pointy as they are mainly used in hunting to capture rabbits, squirrels and other small animals.
Arrow Shafts
This is the body of an arrow and like points, it also has many variations.
Types of Shafts
Aluminium:
The best choice for beginners, Aluminium shafts normally have a varied price range and it normally comes down to the quality of these shafts.
Carbon & Alloy Mixture
These arrows have an alloy core with a carbon cover that makes them stiffer than other bows and also adds strength in the shaft.
That is why this type of shaft is used by Olympians and professional archers and that makes it quite expensive.
Wood
This type of shaft is the most affordable and cheap form and mainly used by traditional shooters and this is the most basic form of shaft used historically.
Arrow Fletches
This is the feathery part located just before the far end of the shaft and its main purpose is to help the arrow in its flight by making it smoother.
Types Of Fletches
Feather Vanes
Usually these are made of a Turkey wing and this is why it is mainly used indoors as it has the chance of becoming waterlogged.
Plastic Vanes
Much stiffer than feather vanes, plastic vanes are much stiffer and provide more stability than the traditional feather Vanes.
Arrow Nocks
This is the smallest part of an arrow and it is located at the end of the shaft. They are mostly made of plastic and they come in both removable and non-removable variety.
So, What Bow And Arrow Should I Buy?
After reading through an article you might have gotten a general overview of the types of Arrows and Bows. So, my advice to you is that you should now improvise and try various combinations to see what suits you the best.
However, the point you always keep in mind while making your selection is the stiffness and weight of both the bow and arrow as it will help in you in making the right choice.
So, go out there and buy a bow and arrow and if you have any questions feel free to comment down below.
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