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Alan's avatar

Interesting read Dave , what I’ve tried to discover ( as I did archery a few years back ) what poundage was the norm for these bows. .. I know it is estimated that bows found on the Mary Rose where probably around 160 - 180 .. I struggled with 75lb bow … I do wonder - considering the stature of the Japanese some been on horse back - what poundage these bows where? If low .. obviously to cause damage they would have had to been close to the enemy .

David Thatcher Samurai Art's avatar

I did visit a Kyudo shop in Nagoya as I needed some arrow shafts made from thicker bamboo. We talked about bows because war bows are different to sporting bows, some craftsman still can make the older types. 130-160lb

Alan's avatar

Omg … I never knew they would / could use so powerful bows ! Cheers Dave 👍

Patrick's avatar

Excellent piece Dave

Colin's avatar

…..a particular interest of mine….interesting factual article. Many thanks.