Experimental archery: projectile velocities and comparison of bow performances

Summary

J. Whittaker: Bow developed end of Upper Palaeolithic, earliest examples are Mesolithic, earliest composite bows 3rd millennium BC in Asia. Experimental bow comparisons should use correct reproductions of old bows and arrows proper to each bow. Velocity is used as measure of comparison.

Arrow velocities achieved were 30-60 mps from a variety of self and composite bows. Compared to 195 gm, 152 cm dart thrown with replica Basketmaker atlatl at 23 mps.

Cite this Record

Experimental archery: projectile velocities and comparison of bow performances. Edward Mcewen, Robert L Miller, Christopher A Bergman. Antiquity. 62 (237): 658-670. 1988 ( tDAR id: 416324)

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Keywords

Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): EXARC Experimental Archaeology Collection Manager

Record Identifiers

ExArc Id(s): 2580

Notes

Rights & Attribution: The information in this record was originally compiled by Dr. Roeland Paardekooper, EXARC Director.