Bows and arrows for historical archery

Archery through the Ages – from Prehistoric Hunting Gear to European Martial Arts

Archery is one of the oldest and most influential skills in human history. The earliest archaeological finds of arrowheads and bow fragments date back to approximately 10,000 BC, making the weapon older than most agrarian civilizations. In prehistoric times, the bow was primarily an indispensable hunting instrument, allowing hunters to strike game from a safe distance.

With the rise of the first kingdoms, the bow became a defining element in many armies. In ancient Egypt, archers were known for their accuracy, often depicted in reliefs shooting from chariots alongside pharaohs. The Assyrians and Babylonians further refined archery as a military art, using strong composite bows that combined power and range.

Composite Bow

A milestone in history was the development of the composite bow by nomadic peoples such as the Scythians, Huns, and later the Mongols. These bows, made from wood, horn, and sinew, were compact yet immensely powerful and enabled horseback shooting. Under leaders like Genghis Khan, they transformed the bow into the most effective weapon of their time.

English longbow

In Europe, the bow also played a significant role. The English longbow, known from battles such as Crécy (1346) and Agincourt (1415), was one of the most feared medieval weapons. These long, strong wooden bows could pierce armor and determined the outcome of wars for centuries. Meanwhile, crossbow makers in Germany, Italy, and France developed advanced medieval crossbows and arbalests, often reinforced with steel.

Archery and Reenactment

With the advent of firearms, the bow gradually disappeared from military context but remained popular in sport, hunting, and historical reenactment. Today, traditional longbows, horsebows, crossbows, and training bows are an integral part of HEMA, reenactment, and bushcraft. For reenactment, use a draw weight with a maximum of 25 lbs for safety reasons.

Discover our collection of bows, arrows, and accessories inspired by this rich history.