A typical reflex bow.
The reflex bow is a powerful weapon and was used by the Mongol hordes that ravaged Europe and Central Asia in the 13th century. It is similar to a recurve bow because both limbs curve away from the archer. The main difference with a reflex bow is that when unstrung, the limbs of the bow point forward, away from the archer, so that the bow resembles a "C." This is what gives the bow its amazing strength and power. The reflex bow is a complex bow to make, but with the right tools you will certainly be able to produce one yourself.
Instructions
1. Cut out a piece of 4-foot-by-3-inch yew wood. Yew is the perfect wood for making bows as it is extremely tough and, above all, keeps its flexibility.
2. Mark the center of the bow where the handle will be. The handle must be in the exact center of the wooden stave and should be no bigger than 4 or 5 inches in length.
3. Shape the bow using a rasp or a belt sander. The bows limbs should be around 1 inch wide and 4/5 inch thick near the handle and the tip. The central part of the limbs are thinner than both the tip and handle area on a reflex bow. The central area on the limbs should ideally be 1 inch wide and 1/2 inch thick.
4. Cut a curved "C" shape into a 4-foot-by-3-inch wooden board. This will later act as a mold for the bow.
5. Soak the bow in simmering water for 30 minutes. After the limbs are soft and supple, use heavy-duty clamps to clamp the bow to the "C"-shaped mold and leave to dry. The bow should have adopted the "C" shape when it is dry. This shape is what gives the bow its power.
6. Cut notches in the tip where you will later attach the strings.
7. String the bow. This step is extremely difficult because of the acute forward curvature of the bow. You need to use all your strength to pull the limbs backward. They now bend into the typical reflex shape associated with these type of bows. Once the bow is bent back fully, latch the strings onto the notches. You may need a friend to help you with this step.
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