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My archery training with Ranger Guide Fenlong taught me that using a bow requires much more than simply pulling back a string and firing an arrow. I stepped into the Wilderness, Fenlong explained how each part of the equipment must be made carefully. A bow begins with a strong but flexible piece of wood that can bend without breaking. Notches are carved near both ends to hold the bowstring securely in place. I learned that strings could be made from animal intestine or sinew, though strong natural fibers may be used as well. The tension in the string provides the force that sends the arrow forward! Fenlong also mentioned the arrows require time and skill to prepare!! Each shaft should be made from straight, durable wood so it can fly properly. Feathers are attached to the end of the arrow with sap or bindings to keep it stable. I learned that arrow tips can be made for different purposes. A blunt point may be used for training and target practice, while other tips are made for outdoor field use. To carry the finished arrows, I used cloth and leather to make a simple quiver. After my training with Fenlong, It was time for the real deal! I stepped outside the Ranger tent and entered the Wilderness to put my skills to the test. While I practiced, Fenlong awaited patiently nearby for our evening meal. The forest was quiet except for the wind moving through the trees. The first creature I encountered was a Golden hare. It moved so quickly through the leaves that it almost seemed like it was chasing me!!! I had to stay calm, watch its movements, and remember the stance and focus that Fenlong had taught me. I focused my bow pulled back and * whoosh *, the arrow fired and I got my first real kill. Later, I saw a Snake moving through a warm patch of ground. I kept a safe distance and used the moment to practice my aim and patience!! Just because the Golden hare and Snake were small did not mean they were easy to catch. Smaller animals mean smaller targets. They moved quickly and unpredictably, which made it difficult to focus. Still, I was determined to improve and use what I had learned. I focused my bow pulled back and * whoosh *, the arrow fired and I stopped the Snake in it?s slithering. I was just starting out, but I wanted to bring Fenlong something a bit bigger: a slow but steady sheep to provide a delicious and hefty amount of food. I carefully followed signs through the Wilderness, including sheep-prints and disturbed leaves. When I located the Sheep field, I focused my bow pulled back and * whoosh *, the arrow fired and my first sheep fell to the ground. I wanted to make sure only one arrow was needed to make it a quick death. Bringing the Sheep back along with the Golden hare and Snake to the fire was another challenge. Since it was too heavy to carry alone, I created a Sheep-carrying mechanism using two strong tree branches. I placed the branches alongside one another and tied them securely with cord and strips of cloth, making a simple drag frame. With effort, I pulled the animals back through the woods to Fenlong?s location in the Wilderness. When I arrived, I told him about the Golden hare, the Snake, and the difficult tracking that led me to the Sheep. I prepared the meal over the fire, and I realized that being a Archer requires patience, creativity, responsibility, and respect for the Wilderness. - NoLimit | |