Traditional Bow and Arrow

The average length of the traditional unbraced sporting bow is 72.5 CMS. The weight of the traditional bow varies between 490 to 500 gms. This bow tapers from 5 CMS in circumference, measured from the end of the lower horn, to 1 cm at the tip of the upper horn. The horns. The horns of a bow are called “Shalu” in Dzongkha. The bow is broadest at its belly measuring, 3.5 CMS in width. It is here that the grip, or “jangshi”, of light willow wood (20.5 to 24 CMS in length and 3.5 CMS in width) is attached.

The bows string, or “Zhu-tha”, is obtained from the fibre of the gaint stinging nettle, locally known as “Zoeche”. In recent years, jute string zhu-tha have also been used. Such bow strings may last through one contest, during which an archer may release as many as one hundred arrows. This bowstring must withstand pressure of up to 60 lbs, drawn with a cast of 145 meters. The bow string is adjusted to suit the needs of the archer by either twisting or loosening the string, creating either a tauter or more flaccid resistance.