Battle bows. Story. Evolution. The art of ownership. Loads M.

Battle bows were the basis of weapons around the world from ancient times to the 16th century, when firearms began to prevail, but even then in some cultures, Luke continued to be used by elite warriors. Luke gave the fighters the opportunity to fight at a distance and played an important role in the outcome of a number of the most famous battles in history. In his fascinating study, Mike Loads talks about the four most famous types of bows in the world: medieval long bows, crossbows with their mechanical component, oriental complex venes with their diverse forms and asymmetric samurai.

An expert on historical weapons and a practicing archer, the author describes not only the technologies that were used in the creation of bows, but also the methods of shooting, battles tactics, offers modern reconstruction of shooting and gives a detailed assessment of the role of this weapon in battle. The publication is intended for everyone who is interested in historical weapons.

“I wanted to place the bows that are discussed in this book, in the wide context of their prehistoric origin. The connection of a person with a bow is very ancient: humanity has used bows and arrows for at least 64,000 years. Along with the sling and the atlas, Luke gave a person the opportunity to surpass the limits of his anatomy - to strike further than you can quit. This was crucial for our development. (Mike Loads)