Making Indian Bows and Arrows... the Old Way

I've been flint knapping now for years. I bought this book way back when I started flint knapping but never really read through it. My focus was on stone tools. Seemingly out of the blue, my interest in making primitive weapons was renewed after watching a video on youtube about making a bow with only stone tools. Now I'm shifting my focus on making bows and arrows the old way. Doug gave an objective view throughout the entirety of this book. His fine craftmanship speaks for itself. I really enjoyed the section on sinew backing and snake skin backing. This book is perfect for the beginger, novice and expert bowyer (As long as one is open-minded for new learning and others ideas). There is no "right way" to make a bow, just different ways and this book will give you tons of ideas as well as igniting an inspiration and enthusiasm for making bows and arrows!Doug...please make a video to go along with the book. -James

Quite honestly in love with this book. It has earned its way into my personal library by accomplishing what it set out to do, be a comprehensive yet simplistic approach to making Indian bows and arrows the old way. The writing is superb and inviting, it feels more like you are having a conversation with a friend than reading from a stranger. While I have not yet built a bow I do have extensive greenwood working experience and have no doubt in my mind that with this book as my guide, I will be able to start building beautiful handcrafted bows to enjoy and appreciate. Thank you to the author for this thoughtfully created book, it will be cherished by myself and my sons for many years to come.

I agree with Doug above that some things in the book are based on somewhat dated knowledge and, if one is really into traditional archery with all its amazing detail and research that the four volume set of the Bowyer's Bible is authoritative, but for a single, easy to read and understand book that will allow virtually anyone to craft a workable bow in a reasonable time with a minimum amount of tools, this is that book. I recommend it highly for anyone with a "weekend" interest in making a first traditional bow. Consider it an excellent introduction to the Bowyer's Bible:)

I bought this for a friend who is sadly lacking in basic computer skills, so I ordered it for him. He's very skilled and talented in making Native American artifacts and this was perfectly up his alley. It includes things that I wouldn't even thought of - i.e. the grain in wood necessary for making a bow - the genuine real deal in Indian lore hundreds of years ago before and after white man came.

Informative book, pretty deep insight into how NA bows and arrows were made, used, decorated, etc. Some good photos, descriptions, worth the money and read. I keep mine for reference, as it has loads of specific info in the book. Advanced bowyers would likely not like the book, folks who are just starting or want to learn the NA way that these things were done will like it.

Just the important details and everything else you need to know. Great perspective that differs from the others. The Indian perspective on Indian bows.

good book,but must disagree on the writer"s view of liquid hide glue.I have used the Franklin hide glue for years,way better than the stuff you can make yourself.other than that a good book.

Not bad but less than what I was thinking it would be... Well at least there's another reference for my library.

An intresting read on how they used to do it. I would reccomend a more modern book on bow construction if you want to try and make your own.

I acquired this manual to assist me in crafting an authentic replica I believe that I will now be able to do so with the assistance and guidence of this book.