The Archers Craft by Adrian Eliot Hodgkin 1951 1st Edition

Written during a period when modern materials were beginning to change the sport, Hodgkins work serves as a passionate preservation of the English Longbow. The book is not merely a "how-to" manual; it is a deep dive into the philosophy, history, and meticulous craftsmanship that defines traditional archery.

CORE THEMES & CONTENT

* Historical Context: Hodgkin provides a vivid history of the longbows role in medieval warfare, specifically focusing on its impact during the Hundred Years' War and the legendary prowess of the English archer.

* The Maker's Guide: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to bowyery and fletching. It offers detailed instructions on selecting the right woods (such as yew, lemonwood, and osage orange), seasoning timber, and the delicate process of "tillering" a bow to perfection.

* The Science of the Arrow: The author explores the aerodynamics of the arrow, the importance of "spine" (stiffness), and the art of fletching with natural feathers.