KEEPING IT ALIVE

There are thousands of archers in the UK, shooting at local clubs or competitions the length and breadth of the country. Many will be shooting the latest bows from Hoyt, Mathews or another overseas manufacturer. A few might be shooting more traditional bows, but not all are aware of the home-grown talents of the UK bowyers, large and small.

In this article I’m going to chat with a few – exploring why they started, where it’s taken them, how they learnt their skills and what’s possible for those who wish to progress further. For some, it’s a part-time business or a very serious hobby, seeing them produce a dozen or so custom-made bows a year. For a few, it’s a full-time business; for a handful, it might be a lifetime career path.

A SHARED PASSION

Many of these individuals have been in the business for decades, others for only a few years. But all of the