What were the main materials used in ancient bows and arrows?

The "Kao Gong Ji" considers it important to make bows with dry, horn, sinew, glue, silk and lacquer, collectively known as the "six materials".

The stem, which includes a variety of wood and bamboo, is used to make the main body of the bow arm, which is made of multiple layers. The performance of the dry material plays a decisive role in the performance of the bow.

"Horn," or animal horn, is made in thin sheets and attached to the inside (belly) of the bow arm.

"Tendon," the tendon of the animal, is attached to the outside (back) of the bow arm.

"Gum," or animal glue, is used to bind dry material and horn tendons.

"Silk," or silk thread, is used to tightly wind the bow tube that binds the horn to the sinews with silk thread to make it stronger.

"Lacquer", the bow arm will be coated with lacquer to prevent the erosion of frost, dew and moisture.