MISSILES
Bowis and dorlochis = Bow and Arrow
Period: 2000 BC
Length: 1.2 metres / 48”
Large numbers of flint and bone arrowheads have been found indicating that the bow and arrow was widely used.
The bow is constructed of organic material so fewer examples remain. Samples indicate that the bow would be similar to the design as we understand it today.
The bow and arrow could be constructed from any locally available materials but some examples indicate that material such as yew for the bow was imported.
This bow illustrates a single carved bough, bound with leather. The string is made from twisted sinews and strung from notches in the bow ends. The arrowhead is made from flint, bound into a notch in the shaft, and has barbs to prevent withdrawal. The flights are made from bird feathers and are bound to the shaft with fine strands of flax.
Bronze Spear
Period: 2000 BC
Length: 2 metres / 80”
The effectiveness of a spear relied not just on the sharpness of the blade but also how securely the spearhead was attached to the throwing shaft.
As casting techniques improved it was possible to extend the shaft socket further into the head and also to include features which improved the attachment and security of the head.
This spear has a wide tanged blade cast from bronze and attached to a wooden shaft. A socket is cast into the spearhead and the shaft shaped to fit.
Two loops are included in the casting process and sinews of skin are used to bind and secure the spearhead to the shaft.
14th Century Bow (AKA Ettrick bow)
Period: 1300 AD
Length: 1.5 metres / 60”
A substantial number of archers came from the Ettrick Forest near Selkirk in support of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce.
Their weapons were small with a limited range.
Though they were deployed in most of the major skirmishes, the bow never achieved the military significance of the English longbow, which was used to devastating effect in later English campaigns in Scotland.
The design of the bow and arrow had moved on little over the centuries from its basic format.
The selection of the wood and its tapered curves had improved from experience, and the flint arrowhead tips had been replaced by iron bladed heads.
The success of this weapon in the battles of the 14th century depended more on the skill of the archer than the effectiveness of his weapon.
Javelin
Period: 200 AD
Length: 1.6 metres / 63”
Spears were one of the main weapons used by Celtic tribes. In addition to spears used as thrusting weapons, lighter javelins were used as a throwing weapon.
Instruction in the use of martial arts was often formal. Women have been depicted as the tutors and are thought to have been involved in the conflicts.
The javelin has a one piece cast iron head with sharpened tip and blades. The head is attached to a willow shaft with rivets. The base is fitted with a protective ferrule. This also allowed the spear to be thrown by hand or by the use of a throwing sling.
Gaesum Spear
Period: 50 BC
Length: 1.8 metres / 72”
Spears were widely used by Celtic warriors. A functional weapon could be constructed from sharpened wood but many more sophisticated bronze or iron weapons were used both in warfare and for ceremonial purposes.
Larger spears were used for close thrusting fighting and lighter javelins used as a throwing weapon.
The Gaesum Spear has a wide blade and incorporates secondary tangs which were useful in hooking the enemy shields and armour.
They also inflicted a more damaging wound.
The spear head is constructed from iron with inlaid bronze fish design which would probably indicate ceremonial use. The base of the oak shaft also incorporates an iron spike.
