Arcus

By Crusader1307

This was the Roman Bow. This weapon was of the composite design. Rather, made from wood and sinew laminated together. The curve was set during the drying period (using a proper bending method developed differently - depending on the Maker). By the drawing the bow rearward, the action creates compression (hence the energy required to launch an arrow). In the early days of The Republic, Roman Archers were not a separate unit - but assigned as infantry. During the Imperial Period, specialized Archery units were developed (as Horse Archers). Archers carried roughly 20 arrows (ranging from 15 to 18 inches). Arrow tip were often specialized as well (barbed, flanged, etc). A standard Archer could fire up to 2 aimed shots within 1 minute - up to 400 yards.