Traditional longbows

Longbows

The longbow is one of the oldest and most recognizable types of bows in the history of archery. This classic bow is known for its simplicity, power, and impressive length, which is often equal to the archer's height. Thanks to the long design, the limbs have a natural, smooth curve, giving the bow its characteristic D-shape when drawn. This design ensures a smooth draw weight and a very efficient transfer of energy to the arrow. Longbows are lighter than many modern bows, making them easy to handle, carry, and quickly ready for use.

Draw weight (in lbs)

When choosing a longbow, the draw weight (in lbs) plays an important role. This determines how much force is needed to fully draw the bow and how quickly the arrow reaches the target. Medieval war bows could have extremely high draw weights exceeding 80 to 110 lbs. For modern practitioners of archery, a longbow of 25–60 lbs is more common, depending on experience and strength. Due to their long shape, longbows put less pressure on the arrow, making the release feel more natural and stable.

Longbow materials

Traditionally, longbows are made from a single piece of wood, with ash wood, yew, and hickory being popular choices due to their flexibility and durability. Thanks to these natural materials and the timeless design, the longbow remains popular with both traditional archers and reenactors, as well as beginners who want to experience a pure form of archery. Whether you shoot for reenactment, sport, or historical experience, a longbow offers an authentic experience that harkens back to centuries-old traditions.