Manchu Archery & The Manchu Bow

The mighty Manchu bow is one of the last bows of the Asiatic composite design and construction to be used as an official military weapon.
Known for its large size, draw length, and draw weight, the Manchu bow is well respected in the historical and/or traditional archery sphere.
This video explores the Manchu people, their history, and culture, then examines Manchu archery and the Manchu bow. Enjoy.
#manchu #archery #history #chinesehistory #traditionalarchery #manchuarchery #archeryhistory

[@abeldasilva9368]

Thank you for making this video.

[@Susikohmelo]

Great video! Here's some extra info for those who hunger for more: - Though a single bow can take from 6mo to 2 years to make, most of this time is spent drying. Bowyers can work at several bows at the same time. It's a bit like how alcohol can take decades to age but they can make them in large numbers. - The Manchu did not typically use quivers at target practice, instead opting for sleeves/ropes/belts somewhat similar to what KTA archers use. This is also why you rarely see a quiver in the 19-20 century photographs as almost all of them are target archers. The arrows are simply resting on their belt behind their back. - Due to the extreme length and heavy weight of the war arrows (~100gram each, ~39" long) and the longer time it takes to draw the bow, very few arrows were carried. *If I remember correctly*, 9 to 13 arrows was the most common amount. - Out of the aforementioned arrows, most commonly about a quarter were wide broadheads that could deal extreme damage to lightly armored opponents. The majority were "plum needles", slim cutting heads with high penetration. Iirc the amount of each carried was a personal choice - One of the most unique techniques of the Manchu was the almost horizontal sideways bow tilt in the early draw. The extraordinarily long fletchings wear down very quickly as they rub against the handle, so the arrow is kept hovering an inch away until the fletchings have been drawn past it. [ Though I'd like to note that this is quite a nuisance and it may have been hunting & target only. I do not know for sure though ]

[@iggyspirit]

Excellent resume of an otherwise esoteric subject, thanks brother.