Manchu Bow – Traditional Asian Reflex Bow for Instinctive and Asian Archery

A Manchu bow, Manchurian-style bow or traditional Asian reflex bow is characterised by distinctive reflex geometry and rigid siyahs. This model under the Erenhill brand is inspired by Manchurian archery while using modern materials for contemporary traditional and instinctive shooting.

It is available in 22 lb, 25 lb and 28 lb draw weights, allowing archers to choose a configuration according to physical ability, actual draw length, experience and intended use.

Modern Manchu bow inspired by traditional Asian design

The bow combines fiberglass limbs, laminated birch siyahs and handle, leather components and a modern Fast Flight bowstring.

It is not presented as an exact historical reconstruction of one surviving Manchu bow or as a bow made exclusively from period materials.

A more accurate description is a modern traditional Asian reflex bow inspired by Manchurian bow design.

22, 25 and 28 lb draw weights

Available options are:

• 22 lb,
• 25 lb,
• 28 lb.

Choosing the correct draw weight is important for both comfort and shooting technique.

A bow that is too heavy can encourage raised shoulders, an unstable stance and an uncontrolled draw. The right draw weight should allow the archer to repeat the full shooting cycle smoothly.

You can try the Manchu bow with us, and Erenhill Archery School can help you choose an appropriate draw weight.

Maximum draw length of 32 inches

The maximum structural draw length is 32″ and must not be exceeded.

Actual draw length depends on the individual archer, body proportions, anchor point and release technique.

This is especially important when practising Asian styles or thumb draw, which may produce a longer draw than a conventional Mediterranean release.

148 cm bow length and 600 g weight

The Manchu bow measures approximately 148 cm and weighs approximately 600 g.

It is therefore longer than many compact horsebows and other short Asian bows.

Its overall length affects handling, transport and the way the archer works with the rigid siyahs.

Fast Flight string and 7-inch preload

The supplied Fast Flight string is approximately 135 cm long.

The product specification also lists a recommended 7″ preload setting. Bow setup should follow the parameters of the actual bow rather than settings intended for a different model.

Traditional, instinctive and Asian archery

The Manchu bow is particularly suitable for:

• traditional archery,
• instinctive shooting,
• Asian shooting techniques,
• recreational archery,
• 3D archery.

The rigid siyahs and Asian-inspired reflex design make it particularly interesting for archers who want to explore traditional Asian bows and different release techniques.

Choosing arrows for a Manchu bow

Arrow selection depends on more than the nominal 22, 25 or 28 lb draw weight.

The correct arrow must also correspond to the archer's actual draw length, shaft spine, arrow length, point weight and total arrow mass.

An archer using a long Asian draw can load the bow differently from someone using a shorter draw cycle.

For this reason, arrow selection should ideally be based on the actual bow and archer rather than a generic table alone.

At Erenhill Archery School, we can help measure your real draw length and choose suitable arrows.

Manchu bow colour options

Available options are:

• Vlčí patron,
• Natural,
• Black/Red,
• Black/Blue.

These options allow the appearance of the bow to be matched to the archer's preference while retaining the same basic product concept.

Safe use of a traditional reflex bow

Inspect the fiberglass limbs, siyahs, handle, string and arrows before every shooting session.

Never exceed the maximum 32″ draw length and never release the string without a suitable arrow.

If you are unsure about stringing, arrow selection or shooting technique, have the bow checked before regular use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Manchu bow?

A Manchu bow is a traditional Asian reflex bow associated with Manchurian archery and characterised by prominent rigid siyahs.

Which draw weights are available?

22 lb, 25 lb and 28 lb.

What is the maximum draw length?

32 inches.

How long is the bow?

Approximately 148 cm.

How much does it weigh?

Approximately 600 g.

How long is the string?

Approximately 135 cm.

Which string material is used?

Fast Flight.

What is the recommended preload?

The product specification lists 7 inches.

Which colours are available?

Vlčí patron, Natural, Black/Red and Black/Blue.

What are the limbs made from?

Fiberglass.

What are the siyahs and handle made from?

Laminated birch.

Is this an exact historical replica?

No. It is a modern traditional reflex bow inspired by Manchurian archery.

Can I try the bow before choosing?

Yes. You can try the bow with us, and Erenhill Archery School can help with draw weight, arrows and shooting technique.

Final Summary

The Manchu bow under the Erenhill brand is a traditional Asian reflex bow inspired by Manchurian archery and the characteristic geometry of bows with rigid siyahs.

It is available in 22, 25 and 28 lb, measures approximately 148 cm, weighs approximately 600 g and has a maximum draw length of 32″.

Its construction combines fiberglass limbs, laminated birch siyahs and handle, leather components and a Fast Flight bowstring.

The Manchu bow is primarily suited to traditional, instinctive and Asian archery and can also be used for 3D shooting.

If you are unsure which draw weight or arrows to choose, you can try the bow with us and get practical expert guidance from Erenhill Archery School before making your selection.