Kyudo

BOWS ( YUMI )
Japanese bows are made from a lamination of bamboo and hardwood with the very best still using the traditional method of gluing that uses natural glue made from deerskin. These bows are "living" items that require skill and sensitivity to maintain them and to give them full expression. They are in some ways Analogous to fine musical instruments. With the advent of modern adhesives and synthetic materials such as fibre glass and carbon fibre more durable bows are available that are suitable for beginners and those of limited experience.

Bow ( Yumi )

The length and weight of a bow is used that is appropriate to the archer's physique and skill. In kyudo the effectiveness of a bow is more dependent on mastering the subtleties of technique to express the energy of the bow than mechanical action. This is why a master archer can shoot a light bow faster than an inexperienced archer with one of heavier weight.

ARROWS ( YA )
Arrows are also traditionally made from hardened bamboo that is straightened and finished by hand. The more expensive flights are made from the wing and tail feathers of birds of prey such as eagle and hawk. The supply of these feather is diminishing due to the protection of these species so arrows of this calibre are extremely expensive and only used by archers of higher rank. Beginners use arrows with aluminium and carbon fibre shafts that have flights made from the feathers of geese or other fowl.

 

Arrows ( Ya )