A longbow, also known as a war bow, is a bow made for a long draw. It must be at least the length of the archer when it is straight.
The limbs are barely curved, causing the bow to have a D-shape when strung. The limbs are widest at the arrow plate and become narrower towards the ends.
Longbow draw weight
Important for every bow is the draw weight. The draw weight determines how much force you need to pull the bow all the way out. This draw weight is measured in lbs, English pounds (1 lbs = 0.454 kg). The heavier the bow, the more weight you must be able to pull, but also the faster the arrow will be when it is fired.
The draw weight of a longbow can vary. Medieval longbows had a draw weight of 80 - 110 lbs, but modern longbows generally have a draw weight of 60 lbs or less.
Lowbows are very lightweight compared to recurve bows. They are also quick and easy to prepare for shooting. Due to the length of the bow, there is less pressure on the arrows, allowing them to fly more easily. They often have no arrow rest or sight marking.
The longbow is made of wood, although the type of wood varies per bow.
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