I'm trying to build a traditional Filipino hunting bow more specifically the bows and arrows of the Aeta tribe. In addition to Filipino Eskrima (martial arts) I'm also interested in the tribal archery styles and I was wondering what are the dimensions, length, and width of a Negrito hunting bow. Also I'm wondering weither or not bow woods of the temperate zone are excellent alternatives towards bamboo and palm wood. For those of ya' who are familiar with the bows and arrows of the Philippines let me know.

I bought a palm wood bow with arrows when stationed in the Philippines in the 70s. I suspect that it was a tourist bow, but I see and remember no difference in what is spoken of in this link:

http://www.primitivearche.../index.php?topic=22060.0

I no longer have the bow and arrows, but the bow was flattish on the back with a d shaped belly. The arrows were long and barbed with some of the nastiest looking metal heads I have ever seen.The string was some type of twisted natural cordage. I never shot the bow.

There are some bows described here as far a length as well as arrows and their length:

http://antiquepacific.com...rrows-n-morokris-harpoon

http://antiquepacific.com...s-n-morokris-philippines

Several early plates that shows bows and arrow. No dimensions are given though.

http://www.filhistory.com/weapon-missile/page/2/

Hope this gives you a start.

Gary

Here's a link that gives some information on the Aeta's archery. Interesting that they simply take common nails and hammer them flat and file them for the arrowheads.

To get more detailed dimensions, you should try to track the author of this article down. Perry Gil S. Mallari He is a regular writer for the Manila Times. "Martial Talk" I'll do a little searching to see if I can locate better contact information.

http://www.fmapulse.com/c...nal-filipino-martial-art

mike