The use of the bow and arrow has been around for centuries and was mainly used for hunting food for survival as well as in defence of homes and territory.
Native North American Indians are well documented for their skills with this weapon for both of those reasons.
Thankfully, we do not have that same necessity in today's modern world, however there is still an "archery" season for hunting that allows people to keep and hone their skills.

Mastering the use of the bow is actually harder to than looks and it is quite challenging to be accurate.
Where they are/where made, was identifiable by the arrow-heads.
Just like anything that is man made, each maker had their unique design and technique. Tribes could readily identify arrows by their design, colouration and the distinct arrow-heads.

This weapon has developed over the centuries and when you are shopping today, you will find the basic design, compound bows and double compound bows.
The differences in these are the "pulley" system they use which makes it easier to use. They still require a lot of strength and skill!
Many lovers of this weapon use it now for competitions.
A variation of the bow is the crossbow which dates back to 600 BC in China. Mankind is a very inventive lot and looking at this simple device is proof of our ingenuity. Historical use can be traced all around the world. Archery is a very popular sport, even today.
The invention of firearms put the bow and arrow usage into decline in most parts of the world, however, there are still many native tribes that use it even today in hunting food for their survival.
As far as we have come in our history, it is still in use.
Return to Types of Martial Arts Styles Homepage