© Companions of the Longbow

Welcome to the Companions of the Longbow ...

We're a group of enthusiasts whose aims are to promote the skills and use of the medieval longbow in a fun and safe environment.  Wherever possible we shoot outdoors, using traditional equipment and using traditional medieval shooting techniques.

Why?

Well, for some it's the challenge.  A traditional longbow is notoriously hard to shoot, constant practice is needed to maintain speed, accuracy and intensity.  They'll work to attain a keen eye.

For some it's the history.  The wish to attain the skills of the yeoman farmers

who trained from childhood to 'bend their bowes' during The Hundred Years War.  They'll work towards the draw weight of the mighty 'war bow'; a bow with such power that it's steel tipped goose feathered cloth yard arrows could penetrate the plate armour of a mounted knight.

For some it's the craft.  They enjoy producing and maintaining their own equipment.  Be it arrow bags, bow bags, their shooting gloves or their bowstrings but perhaps none more so than for those who fletch their own arrows.  For in archery there can be few things more satisfying than seeing your own hand made arrow fly true to hit the target.

For some it's the outdoors.  They enjoy being able to shoot the long distances an open field can offer.  Or the challenge and pleasure of shooting through a sun dappled wood or open glade.

For some, it is companionship.  Sharing and learning from family and friends, in a fun and enjoyable way.

For most it's all of these.

Companions of the Longbow are affiliated to the NFAS

www.Blackcatarchery.com