Make a Primitive Bow by Feel - No Special Tools

Bow making technology has changed since the ancient times, but the process remains much the same. With no shortage of primitive archery how-tos showcasing the benefits of specialized tools, it's always good to be reminded that bows can be made with nothing more than one or two readily-available implements.

If you're not confident in your wood carving skills with a hatchet, practice on scrap wood for a while before tackling a bow stave. The key to carving with a hatchet is being able to hit the same spot every time, and that'll come with practice. If you get tired, take a break and come back to your bow later. Fatigue is the enemy of patience, and patience is king in the art of bowmaking.

I've got some survival bow builds planned for the near future that won't contain as much how-to information, so I'll recommend this video to anyone who has questions about the process in future "making by feel" videos.

Join me for 3 or 4 days in one of our live Bowmaking Workshops, where you'll craft your own bow from start to finish using simple hand tools! Check out the Organic Archery website at www.organicarchery.com for more info.