Meare Heath Bow Replica by Hilary Greenland & Self Yew Longbow by John Bennett (Burbage)

My replica of the Meare Heath Bow by Hilary Greenland, Self Yew Longbow made by John Bennett (Burbage) and Wilburtons Bronze Age Sword made by Neil Burridge.

I've just received my replica of the original Meare Heath Bow (2,600BC) the oldest bow ever found in England. It was made by Hilary Greenland and is a stunning piece of craftsmanship. The original was found on the Somerset Levels.

I also own a Self Yew Bow that was made by the late John Bennett of Burbage. This was found in someone's loft and given to me. I had it restored by Hilary Greenland and it works perfectly and still draws it's original draw weight of 48lbs at 28 inches.

Also pictured is my Wilburtons Bronze Age Sword that was made by Neil Burridge. The oak handle was made by an old friends of mine.

Self Yew Longbow (John Bennett), Meare Heath Bow (Hilary Greenland) and Wilburtons Bronze Age Sword (Neil Burridge).

The beautiful triangular shape around the handle of my Meare Heath Bow - as seen on the original. With it's bindings this truly is a very unusual and unique bow.

A wonderful article by Hilary Greenland describing how her research into the Meare Heath Bow took her on a fascinating journey of discovery. Fascinating article, that has inspired me to go and see the place where it was found and learn more.

http://www.primitivearcher.com/articles/meareheathbow.html

The story of the bow in prehistory, some of the evidence and finds:

http://www.thepaas.org/archery.html

Ron Palmer Longbow, Richard Head Longbow and Self Yew Bow by John Bennett (Burbage).

Me with my replica Meare Heath Bow made by Hilary Greenland. It's a beautiful bow and a work of art. This particular bow was made from Maple as to have to bow made out of the heart wood of yew of the quality of the original, would have just been cost prohibitive. This particular bow draw weight is around 60lbs at 28 inches.

Meare Heath - Shapwick Nature Reserve - the location where the original Meare Heath Bow was found during peat excavation in the 1960's. Now returned to a wetland it may resemble the original habit, where the bow was originally used to hunt? It's a very beautiful and special place.

My replica Neolithic, Bronze Age and Iron Age arrows. Also made by Hilary Greenland.

The Bronze Age Arrow is spliced and designed to break off in the animal, so that the rear end of the arrow can be re-used.

Neolithic, Bronze and Iron Age Arrows. Made by Hilary Greenland.