[oldsoldier]

Anyone out there know where I can find an English longbow with a decent pull? The only ones I can find have a 30-35 pound pull. Thanks in advance.:D

[Jason_G]

Just what I would guess, but I am not sure:
It probably depends on if you want it to be "period" or not. If you don't mind a glass backed bow, you probably have more options. If you're looking for a traditional yew bow, then you may be limited... unless you want to make your own.

Jason

[GunTech]

Straight yew staves are getting hard to find and expensive.

How much weight are you looking for?

[hank327]

Take a look here: http://www.stickbow.com/

I'm sure you will find a lead there.

[walking arsenal]

My friend has one from martin that draws 50# at 28 inches.

Its a nice bow.

[Aries-]

a real ironwood, yew long bow would cost you an arm and a leg.

my mom has a fiberglass long bow that draws 60lbs one she has had since she was a young kid.

id look for a fiberglass one or something like it. there are some really nice long bows now. that are made of fiberglass or other wood.

[Sylvan-Forge]

Hand built bows.
'Test drive' program.

http://www.blackwidowbows.com/


Best of luck in your quest.

[oldsoldier]

I'm looking at 75-80 pound pull, Gun Tech. Although yew is getting $$$, I still want get one. Call me a masochist.:D

[hank327]

Get a copy of Traditional Bowhunter Magazine, http://www.tradbow.com/
You can usually find it at most bookstores. They have lots of ads from custom bowyers and some of them specialize in the old style English yew self-longbows.
It also has lots of good articles pertaining to shooting traditional archery equipment.

[NoirFan]

Oldsoldier,

When you say "english longbow", how technical is your definition? If you want a D-section yew bow which bends through the handle then you should prepare to pay through the nose... $600 and up.

Have you considered a flatbow design? They can be made in very high draw weights like a yew longbow, but using more commonly available hardwoods. Keep in mind a flatbow made of elm or ash could be considered "period" for medieval Europe if that is what you are going for.

Anyway, Here are two good bowyers I have experience with:

www.rudderbows.com - good basic bow, with decent finish. Great customer service and will stand by their warranty.

www.ancientarchery.com - great looking bows, made in completely traditional fashion. The owner is a fun guy to talk to on the phone and will work with you on the order.

[earthworm]

3riversarchery.com is a good source for traditional archery goods.

[Scotticus]

Lots of good bowyers out there. Liberty bows http://www.libertylongbows.com/index.cfm has both traditional and modern designs.

[GunTech]

If you want a D section, make you own. I've built a couple for my daughter, who's a medievil enthusiast. Make the first one out of red oak to learn.

It's not hard to make a tiller and tiller you own bow. A decent plane and a spoke shave are all you need - and maybe a file or two.

I just bough the traditional bowyers bible and had a go. There's nothing like shooting the bow you made.