For centuries, mounted archers from the Eurasian steppes dominated battlefields with a weapon that seemed impossible: compact, powerful bows that could be shot accurately from galloping horses. From the Mongol conquests to the Ottoman Empire, Asiatic bows and horsebows weren’t just weapons—they were force multipliers that changed the course of history. Their recurved limbs, composite construction, and thumb draw technique created a shooting system so effective that it took gunpowder centuries to finally replace it. But what made these bows so deadly? And why do traditional archers still seek out these ancient designs today?
In this week’s video, I sat down with a historian to explore the fascinating engineering and history behind Asiatic bows and horsebows. We dig into the innovations that made these bows perfect for mounted warfare, the cultural significance of archery across Asian civilizations, and how these ancient designs continue to influence modern traditional archery. Whether you’re a recurve shooter curious about different styles, a longbow enthusiast wanting to understand the full archery landscape, or just fascinated by military history, this deep dive reveals why horsebows deserve a place in every archer’s knowledge base. Watch the full video here and discover the bows that conquered empires.