The Art Of Making Primitive Bows And Arrows (1985)

At a glance..

D. C. Waldorf explains several related topics in detail. The text covers tools and woods for bow making, a simple self bow, bow designs, sinew backing, making a bow string, making arrows and quivers. Valerie Waldorf's many photographs and plan drawings illustrate the book and make the projects easy.

The details..

In The Art of Making Primitive Bows and Arrows, D.C. Waldorf shares his lifelong interest in the history of weapons and archery, offering step-by-step instructions on making serviceable archery tackle using primitive tools or modern substitutes.

This book is not about the history or ethnology behind bows or arrows but instead focuses on providing accurate information for readers who want to create their own equipment. It includes designs that are both authentic (American Indian) as well as those that have been modified for practicality purposes.

"Tools And Wood For Bow Making" provides a list of necessary tools ranging from prehistoric stone axes to more contemporary options like saws, sandpaper, rasps etc., depending on one's level of expertise in flint knapping.

Waldorf acknowledges the rise in popularity of compound bows while still advocating for traditional archery methods which he believes stir ancient memories within us all.